This Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp is a tasty dish full of sweet and zesty flavors. The brown sugar brings a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with the fresh lime juice!
Honestly, who doesn’t love shrimp that cooks quickly and tastes amazing? I serve it over rice for a simple dinner my whole family enjoys! It’s like a mini vacation on a plate! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp is perfect for this dish. If you have frozen shrimp, just make sure they’re thawed and peeled. If you’re looking for a substitute, diced chicken breast could work, but adjust cooking time since chicken takes longer to cook.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar gives a rich sweetness. If you need a substitute, feel free to use coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind that honey might alter the texture a bit.
Lime Juice: Fresh lime juice adds brightness. If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled juice works in a pinch, but fresh is always best! A bit of lemon juice could also substitute if you want a similar tang.
Soy Sauce: Adds a salty, umami element. If you’re looking for a low-sodium option or gluten-free version, tamari is a great alternative!
Olive Oil or Butter: I love using olive oil for a light taste, but feel free to use melted butter for a richer flavor! You could also use coconut oil for a tropical twist.
How Do I Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp?
Overcooking shrimp is a common concern. The key is to watch the cooking time closely since shrimp cooks fast! Here are some tips:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure shrimp cooks evenly.
- Bake for just 8-10 minutes. They’re done when they turn opaque and curl slightly.
- Use a timer! This helps you avoid distractions and ensures perfect doneness.
Lastly, remember that the shrimp will continue cooking a little after you take them out of the oven. Removing them at just the right moment makes all the difference!
Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation if desired)
- 3 tbsp brown sugar (light or dark)
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil or melted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for a mild smoky flavor)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 10 minutes to bake. Overall, you’ll have this flavor-packed dish ready in about 25-30 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot, which is essential for cooking shrimp quickly and keeping them tender.
2. Prepare the Marinade:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, fresh lime juice, soy sauce, olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Mix until everything is well blended. This is where the magic begins!
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp into the bowl, and toss them with the marinade until they are evenly coated. Make sure every shrimp is getting that delicious flavor!
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Spread the shrimp out in a single layer in a baking dish or on a rimmed baking sheet. This helps them cook evenly. Pour any remaining marinade over the shrimp for extra flavor.
5. Bake:
Pop the shrimp in the oven and bake for about 8-10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn opaque and are cooked through. Keep a close eye on them so they don’t overcook, as this can make them tough.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, take the shrimp out of the oven and sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve them hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top when you dig in!
Enjoy your tangy, sweet, and slightly savory Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp! This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad for a delightful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before marinating. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before adding to the marinade for the best texture.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add some chopped jalapeños to the marinade. You could also serve with a spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Any leftover Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat to prevent overcooking, or use the microwave, taking care to heat them in short intervals.
What Can I Serve With This Dish?
This shrimp dish pairs nicely with steamed rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with tortillas for a fun taco night or over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a low-carb option!
