This Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp is a delicious treat! Juicy shrimp are coated in a sweet and tangy mix of brown sugar and lime, making them extra tasty.
I love serving these with rice or tacos. They’re quick to make, and the smell while they bake is just heavenly. Your kitchen will feel like a tropical paradise! 🌴
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp can both work great here. I like using large shrimp for a satisfying bite, but feel free to use smaller ones if that’s what you have. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as smaller shrimp may cook faster.
Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is key for that sweet glaze. If you don’t have it, you can use white sugar with a bit of molasses mixed in, or try coconut sugar for a different flavor.
Lime Juice & Zest: Fresh lime juice and zest bring brightness. If fresh limes aren’t available, bottled lime juice can be a substitute, although the flavor will be a bit different. Lemon juice also works in a pinch!
Panko Breadcrumbs: For that crunchy topping, panko is preferred, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if that’s what’s on hand. They won’t be quite as crispy, but they’ll still work.
Cilantro or Parsley: I love cilantro for this dish, but if you’re not a fan, parsley is a good alternative. You could even skip the herbs if you want a simpler flavor.
How Do You Perfectly Bake Shrimp Without Overcooking?
Getting shrimp just right is all about timing. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery, and nobody wants that! Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat your oven properly; a hot oven helps to cook shrimp quickly and evenly.
- Watch the clock! Bake the shrimp for only 8-10 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque.
- Check for doneness: When they curl into a “C” shape, they’re done.
- If you’re unsure, pull them out just as they look mostly cooked. They’ll continue cooking slightly from residual heat.
Once you master the timing, you’ll enjoy perfectly tender shrimp every time!
Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on for presentation)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
- Zest of 1 lime
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for slight heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for a crispy topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
Time Needed:
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and another 10 minutes to bake, for a total of about 25 minutes. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight meal or a gathering with friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your shrimp cooks quickly and evenly. If you’d like, lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a large bowl, mix together the brown sugar, lime juice, lime zest, olive oil (or melted butter), smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until you have a lovely smooth marinade.
3. Coat the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the marinade and gently toss them until they are completely coated. Let them sit for about 10-15 minutes to soak in all those tasty flavors.
4. Arrange the Shrimp:
Next, transfer the shrimp to your prepared baking dish in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly. Sprinkle the panko breadcrumbs all over the shrimp for a delicious crispy topping.
5. Bake the Shrimp:
Now, pop the baking dish in the oven! Bake the shrimp for about 8-10 minutes, until they are pink, opaque, and the panko topping is golden brown. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Once they’re done, remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle with chopped cilantro or parsley. Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side for a burst of extra citrus.
7. Enjoy!
This dish is fantastic served over rice, in tacos, or as an appetizer with your favorite sides. The combination of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors will surely make it a hit!
Enjoy your Brown Sugar Lime Baked Shrimp! 🍤
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before marinating. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes or overnight in the fridge. Pat them dry with paper towels before marinating to ensure they absorb the flavors well.
What Can I Substitute for Brown Sugar?
If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use white sugar mixed with a little molasses—about 1 tablespoon of molasses for every cup of white sugar will mimic the flavor. Alternatively, coconut sugar works well as a healthier option for a similar taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. This helps to keep them crispy!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a spicier kick, simply increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the marinade. You can also add diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick!