Head on Shrimp – Best Garlicky

Head on Shrimp – This easy juicy garlicky head on shrimp made in less than 20 minutes is perfect for the quick dinner served on rice to soak up that buttery garlic sauce.

head on shrimp

Why Head-On Shrimp? A Flavor Bomb

Sure, you can get perfectly good shrimp without the heads. But trust me, keeping those heads on is like holding onto the golden ticket to Flavortown. Here’s why:

Shrimpy Goodness: The head is where a lot of that iconic “shrimpy” flavor lives. Cooking shrimp with the heads on infuses the meat with a deeper, richer taste.

Natural Seasoning: The shrimp’s hepatopancreas, located in the head, acts as its own built-in seasoning. It’s like a savory, umami-packed sauce that gets released during cooking.

Presentation: Let’s be honest, head-on shrimp look impressive. They make any dish feel like a special occasion.

head on shrimp with lemon

Head on Shrimp – Best Tips

Buy Fresh: Look for shrimp with bright eyes and firm bodies. Avoid any with a fishy smell.

Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook quickly! Watch them closely to avoid rubbery texture.

Savor the Head: After cooking, don’t be afraid to suck the flavorful juices from the head.

head on shrimp garlic

Flavorful Recipe Variations

Garlic Butter: Add more garlic and butter for extra richness.

Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes or chili powder.

Herbaceous: Use fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano.

Try Asian-inspired flavors like soy sauce, ginger, and lime.

How to Store Leftover?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.

best head on shrimp

Recipe FAQs

Can I grill head-on shrimp?

Absolutely! Grill over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

What should I serve with head-on shrimp?

They’re amazing with crusty bread, pasta, rice, or a simple salad.

Yield: 4

Head on Shrimp

head on shrimp

This easy juicy garlicky head on shrimp made in less than 20 minutes is perfect for the quick dinner served on rice to soak up that buttery garlic sauce.

Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 lbs whole shrimp, large
  • 8 tablespoons butter, unsalted
  • 4 garlic cloves, freshly grated
  • 1/2 cup white wine
  • 2 lemons, quartered
  • salt and pepper, or to taste
  • 1 pinch dried red chili flakes
  • Fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
  2. Heat a large pan on medium high heat. Add wine and simmer until reduce by half for 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add butter, garlic, salt and pepper. Stir to combine and sauté for 1 minute.
  4. Add whole shrimp and lemons. Toss to coat with the butter mixture.
  5. Transfer pan to the preheated oven and roast for about 15-20 minutes or until cooked through and pink.
  6. Toss 1-2 times during the cook time. Finally, broil for 2-3 minutes on high or until charred.
  7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and red chili flakes.
  8. Enjoy immediately.

Nutrition Information

Yield

4

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 582Total Fat 28gSaturated Fat 16gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 10gCholesterol 659mgSodium 2765mgCarbohydrates 10gFiber 1gSugar 1gProtein 66g

Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.

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Soumyadip Chatterjee
Founder of easyshrimprecipes.com
Hi, this is Soumyadip, creator of easyshrimprecipes.com. I love cooking and sharing new tasty recipes to the entire world. So what are you waiting for, join me on a delicious journey.

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