Sheet Pan Shrimp Recipe – Easy Meals To Cook

I’ll never forget the first time I decided to make sheet pan shrimp. On a busy weeknight, I was feeling the pressure. I wanted something quick yet satisfying. Nothing complicated. Just something delicious. I rummaged through my kitchen and found shrimp tucked away in the freezer.

After tossing in some simple pantry staples, I had a feast ready in no time. The beauty of sheet pan shrimp lies in its simplicity. It came out perfectly cooked, full of flavor, and ready without a mess to clean up. Since then, it has become a staple in my household. And I’m ready to share all the insights that make this dish special.

What is Sheet Pan Shrimp?

Sheet pan shrimp is a delightful dish where shrimp and vegetables are roasted together on a single baking sheet. You season the shrimp with your favorite spices, add colorful vegetables, and let the oven do the work. 

This method keeps everything juicy while allowing the flavors to meld. It’s the perfect way to enjoy seafood without a lot of fuss.

Why Does This Recipe Work?

There are several reasons why this sheet pan shrimp recipe stands out. Let’s dive into four key points.

1. Effortless One-Pan Cooking
The genius of this recipe lies in how effortless it is to prepare. You chop, season, and toss everything onto one sheet. Then, pop it into the oven. The convenience can't be overstated. No multiple pans to wash afterward; it’s a major time-saver for busy nights.

2. Flavorful and Versatile
I think versatility is the heart of this recipe. You can easily swap out the veggies based on what you have on hand. As for the shrimp, you can use different spices and herbs to switch up the flavor profile. One week it’s zesty with lemon and herbs; the next, it’s got a smoky kick.

3. Quick Cooking Time
Shrimp cooks quickly. In under 20 minutes, your dinner is served. This makes it ideal for those nights when you crave a satisfying meal but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. With shrimp, you reduce the stress of meal prep significantly.

4. Health-Conscious
For those mindful of their health, sheet pan shrimp is a smart choice. Packed with protein, low in fat, and bursting with nutrients from the veggies, it checks all the necessary boxes. You feel good about what you’re serving to your family.

Ingredients You'll Need To Make This Sheet Pan Shrimp

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to culinary success. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
• 3 large lemons, juiced and zested
• 2 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano (preferably Mediterranean)
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon Aleppo pepper (or substitute with red pepper flakes)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest (optional, for added citrus flavor)
• 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for a hint of sweetness)

These ingredients bring together bright flavors and health benefits.

How To Make These Sheet Pan Shrimp?

Now, let’s break down the steps for making this dish. I promise it’s easier than it sounds!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature ensures that the shrimp cook quickly and develop a golden exterior.

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, coriander, cumin, Aleppo pepper, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the key to infusing flavor into your shrimp and veggies.

Step 3: Marinate the Shrimp

Add the cleaned shrimp to the marinade. Toss everything until the shrimp are fully coated. Let it marinate for about 10-15 minutes to absorb all that flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the Vegetables

While the shrimp marinates, prepare your choice of vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and red onion work surprisingly well. Cut them into bite-sized pieces. Toss the vegetables in any leftover marinade to get them flavorful too.

Step 5: Arrange on the Sheet Pan

On a large baking sheet, spread out the shrimp and the veggies. Make sure they’re in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. This helps everything cook evenly and gives it that nice roasted finish.

Step 6: Bake

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. The vegetables should be tender yet slightly crisp.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Lastly, remove it from the oven and transfer everything to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a dash more lemon zest if desired. You now have a stunning, flavorful meal.

Tips for Making the Best Sheet Pan Shrimp

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Whenever possible, use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If you're using frozen, ensure they are completely thawed and patted dry.
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to play around with vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, or snap peas can make fantastic additions.
• Watch the Cook Time: Shrimp cooks quickly. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking.
• Don’t Skimp on Marinade Time: Letting shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes can significantly boost the flavor profile.
• Serve Immediately: For the best taste and texture, serve it right out of the oven.

Nutrition Information

A standard serving (approximately 4 ounces of shrimp with veggies) contains roughly:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 14g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

This is a healthy option that aligns with many dietary needs while providing a balanced meal.

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for about 2-3 days. 

However, be warned: reheating shrimp can lead to rubbery textures. To avoid this, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop until just warmed through.

Recommended Side Dishes for Sheet Pan Shrimp

A well-rounded meal is all about balance. Here are some excellent side dish ideas:

1. Garlic Bread
Nothing complements shrimp better than garlic bread. It’s the ideal vehicle for soaking up those tasty juices on your plate. A crunchy, buttery side adds a comforting touch.

2. Arugula Salad
This salad balances the richness of the shrimp nicely. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon vinaigrette can elevate your meal without overwhelming it.

3. Couscous or Quinoa
Both of these grains soak up flavor beautifully. They can be tossed with a bit of olive oil, lemon zest, and fresh herbs for a delightful side that plays well with shrimp.

4. Grilled Asparagus
Fresh asparagus spears bring a seasonal vibrancy that pairs perfectly with seafood. Drizzle with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt before grilling.

Substitute Options for the Ingredients

Sometimes you may find yourself lacking an ingredient. Here are some simple substitutions you can make:

1. Shrimp: If shrimp isn't available, consider using chicken breast or tofu. Both absorb flavors well and will still give you a satisfying dish.

2. Olive Oil: Can’t find olive oil? Use avocado oil or canola oil instead. They both work excellently for roasting.

3. Paprika: You can swap paprika with a mixture of cayenne and garlic powder for a different kick.

4. Fresh Parsley: If fresh herbs aren’t handy, dried herbs can serve in a pinch. Use about one-third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.

Conclusion

Sheet pan shrimp is a glorious intersection of convenience, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish hits all the right notes. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare and clean up. With versatile substitutions and side options, you can customize it to your liking.

Invest in quality ingredients and enjoy a meal that looks impressive but comes together with minimal effort. Trust me; once you try it, sheet pan shrimp will certainly be requested again and again. So, roll up your sleeves, fire up that oven, and let's make something delicious!

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