There’s something truly special about the crispy, golden exterior of Baked Butterfly Shrimp that brings a smile to my face every time I pull it out of the oven. These little gems are perfectly seasoned, tender on the inside, and boast a delightful crunch that’s backed by the nuttiness of almond flour. For me, this dish is a celebration of flavors and textures, making it a regular feature in my kitchen during cozy family gatherings or for a quick weeknight treat.
I’ve found that this recipe comes together surprisingly fast, which is a blessing in our bustling lives. Whether you’re preparing a fancy dinner for friends or just having a simple family night, these shrimp can easily steal the show. And let’s not forget, any leftovers (if there are any) make for a divine snack the next day!
Why I Love Baked Butterfly Shrimp
Baked Butterfly Shrimp is an incredibly easy and undeniably delicious dish that hits that sweet spot between comfort food and elegance. It’s scrumptious enough to impress guests yet simple enough for a weeknight meal. The flavor profile is beautifully balanced—with the warmth of paprika and the lightness of almond flour—and it pairs well with countless dipping sauces or sides. Truly, it’s a winner at my table!
Baked Butterfly Shrimp Ingredients
The magic of this Baked Butterfly Shrimp truly lies in its harmonious ingredients that work together to create a deliciously satisfying bite. Don’t worry about exact measurements just yet; those are all in the recipe card for you!
Essential Components
- 1 POUND LARGE SHRIMP, PEELED AND DEVEINED: These are the stars! Tender and juicy, shrimp are the perfect canvas for our seasonings.
- 1 CUP ALMOND FLOUR: This gluten-free alternative gives us that lovely crunch and a nuttiness that complements the shrimp beautifully.
- 1/2 TEASPOON PAPRIKA: Adds a warm, smoky flavor that really brings the dish to life.
- 1/2 TEASPOON GARLIC POWDER: A dash of garlicky goodness that enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 TEASPOON SALT: Essential for enhancing flavors—don’t skip it!
- 1/4 TEASPOON BLACK PEPPER: A pinch of spice to balance the dish.
- 2 EGGS, BEATEN: These act as the binding agent for the flour and shrimp.
- COOKING SPRAY OR OLIVE OIL FOR GREASING: A little grease to ensure our shrimp don’t stick and get that gorgeous golden crisp.
Substitutions and Tips
Need a swap? If you’re out of almond flour, feel free to use panko breadcrumbs for a more classic crumbed texture, though it won’t be quite as nutty. Egg replacements such as flaxseed meal mixed with water can work in a pinch for those looking for a vegan option. You can also spice things up by adding a bit of cayenne pepper for an extra kick or switch up herbs by tossing in some parsley or dill for a fresh twist.
A great tip: The drier the shrimp, the better! Pat them really dry before coating; this step is key to achieving that delightful crunch.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet (large, preferably with a rim)
- Mixing bowls (1 small for the egg, 1 medium for dry ingredients)
- Whisk (for beating the eggs)
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy cleanup)
- Cooking spray or an olive oil mister
- Basting brush (if using olive oil)
How to Make Baked Butterfly Shrimp
Let’s dive into creating this splendid Baked Butterfly Shrimp. I’ve broken down the process into simple steps, so follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time. We’re aiming for crispy, golden shrimp that are bursting with flavor!
Preheat and Prepare
First, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). While that’s warming up, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This initial prep is crucial for a fabulous outcome!
Mix Flavorful Coating
Next, in a mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup almond flour, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Use a whisk to ensure everything is evenly distributed. You want those flavors to intermingle beautifully before they meet the shrimp.
Dip Shrimp in Egg
Now, grab your 2 beaten eggs and dip each shrimp into the egg mixture. Make sure they’re fully coated; this helps the almond flour stick well. This is key to achieving that perfect golden crust that everyone loves!
Coat with Almond Flour Mix
Once dipped in egg, it’s time to coat the shrimp with the almond flour mixture. I like to really press it on to ensure a good layer sticks. This step influences the overall texture, giving it that satisfying crunch we’re craving.
Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the coated shrimp on your prepared baking sheet. Be sure to leave a little space between each piece for even cooking. This simple arrangement will help them brown nicely without steaming.
Grease for Crispiness
Now, lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the shrimp. This will help achieve that delightful golden color and keep everything crispy. You want to give these beauties a bit of love before they hit the heat.
Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. You’ll see them firm up and turn that lovely shade of brown. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for!
Serve Fresh and Enjoy
Finally, serve warm with a dipping sauce of your choice or as is. The aroma wafting through your kitchen is sure to create a buzz at the table!
How to Store Baked Butterfly Shrimp
Leftovers? Well, if you happen to have any, rest assured they taste delightful the next day! Keep any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to enjoy them longer, you can freeze them—just ensure they’re in a well-sealed container, and they’ll last about 2-3 months. To reheat, bake them at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to bring back that crispy goodness!
Tips for Success
- Don’t rush the drying process of the shrimp; it’s essential for crispiness.
- Use fresh spices for the best flavor impact.
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking.
- Consider broiling the shrimp for the last few minutes for extra browning.
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through for even cooking.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a zesty lemon aioli for a refreshing contrast.
- Pair them with a crisp green salad or roasted asparagus.
- Enjoy with a side of sweet chili sauce for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or lemons for visual appeal.
- Pair with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water.
Enjoy bringing this dish to life in your own kitchen! I can’t wait for you to indulge in these flavors—it’s a real treat.
