Looking for a quick, delicious dinner? You’ve found it! My Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus Sheet-Pan Delight is a must-try. This dish combines juicy shrimp and tender asparagus, all roasted in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s simple, tasty, and ready in about 20 minutes—perfect for busy nights. Let’s dive into the fresh ingredients and easy steps to make this crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Lemon wedges for serving
When I make garlic butter shrimp and asparagus, I love to gather fresh ingredients. The shrimp should be large and firm. This gives the dish a great texture. I prefer using fresh asparagus. It adds a nice crunch and bright color.
The garlic and butter are the stars here. I use unsalted butter to control the salt. Fresh garlic gives a strong flavor. Lemon zest and juice brighten the dish. Paprika adds a hint of warmth, while oregano brings an earthy taste.
I keep salt and pepper handy. They are key for balancing flavors. Olive oil helps the asparagus roast well. Fresh parsley is perfect for a pop of color. I always serve lemon wedges on the side. They add a fresh zing that enhances the dish.
With these ingredients, you are on your way to creating a flavorful, vibrant meal that impresses every time.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature helps cook the shrimp and asparagus just right. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or foil. This step makes cleanup easy.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a big mixing bowl, add the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Then, sprinkle in paprika, oregano, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk everything well until you see a smooth mix. This garlic butter will add great flavor to the shrimp.
Marinating the Shrimp
Now, add the shrimp to the bowl with the garlic butter. Toss them gently so every shrimp gets coated. Let the shrimp marinate for about 10 minutes. This time helps them soak in all the yummy flavors while you prep the asparagus.
Seasoning the Asparagus
Take another mixing bowl and add the trimmed asparagus pieces. Drizzle them with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss until every piece is coated. This step makes sure the asparagus cooks well and tastes great.
Arranging on Baking Sheet
Pour the seasoned asparagus onto one side of the baking sheet. Place the marinated shrimp on the other side in a single layer. Giving them space helps them cook evenly. If you have any leftover garlic butter mixture, drizzle it over both the shrimp and asparagus for extra flavor.
Baking Instructions
Put the baking sheet in your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The shrimp will turn pink and opaque, while the asparagus will be tender but still crisp. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
Finishing Touches
When baked, take the sheet out of the oven. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish for a pop of color and flavor. Serve right away with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty kick.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips for Perfect Shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, focus on timing. Shrimp cook fast. They turn pink and opaque when done. Overcooking makes them tough. I suggest cooking shrimp for 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. Watch for that color change. If you see it, they are ready!
Asparagus Cooking Secrets
For asparagus, keep that crisp texture. Trim the ends to remove the tough parts. Cook until bright green and tender but not mushy. If you bake it with the shrimp, check after 10 minutes. It should still have a slight crunch. If it bends easily, it’s perfect!
Serving Suggestions
To impress, serve the shrimp and asparagus on a large plate. Drizzle leftover garlic butter on top. It adds flavor and looks great. Scatter fresh parsley for color, and add lemon wedges on the side. This makes the dish pop! Enjoy this lovely meal with friends or family.

Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can switch the shrimp for other seafood. Scallops and salmon work nicely. Both add rich flavor and texture. If you like a firmer bite, scallops are great. For a meatier option, salmon gives a nice twist.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to change the taste? Add fresh herbs like basil or dill. These herbs bring a nice twist and fresh aroma. You can also try spices like cumin or chili powder for a kick. Just adjust to your taste for a fun mix.
Dietary Accommodations
Need a gluten-free version? Use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular. For a dairy-free meal, swap the butter for olive oil or a vegan butter. This way, everyone can enjoy this dish without worry.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your garlic butter shrimp and asparagus fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container. Place the dish in the fridge within two hours of cooking. This will help preserve flavor and texture. Try to eat the leftovers within three days for the best taste. If you notice any odd smells or changes in texture, it’s best to throw them away.
Reheating Instructions
When reheating, avoid making the shrimp tough. Use the oven for best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp and asparagus on a baking sheet. Add a splash of olive oil to keep them moist. Heat for about 10 minutes. You can also use a microwave, but be careful. Heat in short bursts to avoid overcooking.
Freezing Options
You can freeze leftovers for later enjoyment. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
How long does garlic butter shrimp take to cook?
Cooking garlic butter shrimp takes about 12 to 15 minutes. I set my oven to 400°F (200°C) to get the best results. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. The asparagus should be tender yet crisp. Keep an eye on both to avoid overcooking.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before marinating. This helps the flavors stick better. Fresh shrimp will give a better taste, but frozen works fine in a pinch.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp and asparagus?
I love serving rice or quinoa with this dish. They soak up the garlic butter nicely. You can also pair it with a light salad or crusty bread. These sides balance the meal and add freshness.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Look for the shrimp to change color. They should be pink and opaque. If they curl tightly, they are likely cooked. A good rule is to take them out when they are just done. This keeps them juicy and tender.
This dish combines shrimp and asparagus for a tasty meal. We covered all the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You learned how to marinate shrimp and ensure both shrimp and asparagus cook perfectly.
Feel free to experiment with variations or adjust for dietary needs. With the right storage, your leftovers will stay delicious. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe with friends and family. Happy cooking!

