The Easiest Way to Cook Shrimp (Baked Shrimp Under the Broiler)

This quick and easy broiled shrimp recipe is perfect when you need a flavorful protein in minutes. Ready in just 5 minutes with minimal ingredients, these juicy, tender shrimp are perfect for adding to salads, tacos, pasta, or serving on their own.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or any high-heat cooking oil like grapeseed or light olive oil)
• Kosher salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat the Broiler

Set your oven to broil and position the top oven rack about 5 inches from the upper heating element.

2. Prep the Shrimp

Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture—this helps them cook more evenly and brown slightly.
Drizzle the shrimp with avocado oil and toss until fully coated.

3. Season and Arrange

Spread the shrimp out on a large baking sheet in a single, even layer without overlapping.
Season generously with kosher salt and black pepper, plus any extra spices or herbs you enjoy (see variations below).

4. Broil

Broil the shrimp for about 2 minutes, or just until they turn bright pink and opaque. Watch closely—they cook fast!

5. Serve or Store

Transfer the shrimp immediately to a serving dish. Serve warm, or let cool and store in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super fast—ready in just 5 minutes!
• Simple ingredients you probably already have
• Versatile—perfect for meal prep, salads, tacos, and more
• Healthier cooking method with minimal oil
• Easy cleanup with one pan and no flipping required

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Tips

• Dry the shrimp well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
• Don’t overcook—shrimp are done when they’re pink and curled into a “C” shape.
• Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results under the broiler.
• Broil in batches if your pan is overcrowded.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Seasoning options: Try garlic powder, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, or Italian herbs.
• Citrus twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving.
• Oil alternatives: Use melted ghee, butter, or any neutral oil if you don’t have avocado oil.
• Add garlic: Minced garlic or garlic powder adds extra flavor when broiling.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes—just make sure to thaw and pat them completely dry before cooking.

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
They should be pink, firm, and opaque, and form a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.

Can I bake instead of broil?
Yes, but broiling gives better texture and faster results. If baking, cook at 400°F for 7–8 minutes.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve over rice, pasta, or quinoa with a drizzle of lemon or garlic butter
• Add to tacos or wraps with fresh slaw or avocado
• Toss into salads or grain bowls for a protein boost
• Use in pasta dishes like shrimp scampi or Alfredo
• Serve as a party appetizer with cocktail or remoulade sauce