Broiled Butterflied Shrimp: A Coastal Classic

The scent of garlic sizzling in butter always transports me back to summers spent on the New England coast. My grandmother, a true culinary artist, would often whip up a batch of broiled shrimp, its aroma filling her tiny cottage with a promise of seaside deliciousness. The crispy, golden breadcrumbs and tender, juicy shrimp were a simple yet perfect symphony of flavors that I’ve been chasing ever since. This recipe, inspired by those cherished memories, brings that taste of summer right to your table.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Pescatarian

Ingredients

• 1 lb jumbo shrimp, thawed (if frozen)
• 2 garlic cloves, sliced thin
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt
• Cayenne pepper
• ⅛ cup Italian style breadcrumbs
• ⅛ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅛ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ⅛ cup fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment Needed

• Shallow baking dish
• Small skillet

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your broiler. Position a rack in the upper third of the oven for best results.
2. Prepare the shrimp: peel, devein, and butterfly each shrimp. To butterfly, slice along the back of each shrimp, almost all the way through, and then spread it open like a butterfly.
3. Arrange the butterflied shrimp in a shallow baking dish in a single layer. Ensure they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
4. Season the arranged shrimp generously with salt and a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste. The cayenne adds a subtle warmth that complements the sweetness of the shrimp.
5. In a small skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this will make it bitter. You want it fragrant and softened.
6. Remove the garlic from the butter with a slotted spoon, leaving the infused butter in the skillet. You can discard the sauteed garlic or save it for another dish.
7. Pour about half of the garlic-infused butter evenly over the shrimp in the baking dish. Distribute it so that each shrimp is lightly coated.
8. In a small bowl, combine the Italian style breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese. This mixture will create a lovely crispy topping.
9. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp. Make sure each shrimp receives a generous coating of the mixture.
10. Pour the remaining garlic butter evenly over the breadcrumb-topped shrimp. This will help the breadcrumbs crisp up nicely under the broiler.
11. Place the baking dish under the preheated broiler and broil for about 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and the breadcrumbs begin to brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
12. Turn the shrimp over and broil for another 3 to 5 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and opaque throughout. The internal temperature of the shrimp should reach 145°F (63°C).
13. Remove the baking dish from the broiler and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Even Cooking: Make sure the shrimp are arranged in a single layer in the baking dish. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and steamed, rather than broiled, shrimp.
• Broiler Awareness: Broilers can vary in strength. Keep a close eye on the shrimp while broiling to prevent burning. Adjust the baking dish’s position or the broiling time as needed.
• Garlic Infusion: Don’t skip infusing the butter with garlic! It adds a ton of flavor and elevates the dish. If you’re short on time, you can use garlic powder instead, but the fresh garlic is superior.
• Breadcrumb Crispness: For extra crispy breadcrumbs, lightly toast them in a dry skillet before using them in the recipe.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit it entirely. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne.
• Make-Ahead Prep: You can butterfly and arrange the shrimp in the baking dish, season them, and prepare the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time. Store the shrimp covered in the refrigerator until ready to broil. This makes it a quick and easy dish for busy weeknights.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the broiled butterflied shrimp immediately while they are hot and crispy. They make a fantastic appetizer or a light main course. Accompany them with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for added brightness.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, broil them again for a few minutes, watching carefully to prevent them from drying out. Alternatively, you can gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	177 kcal	N/A
Total Fat	9.8g	15%
Saturated Fat	5.5g	27%
Cholesterol	137.2mg	45%
Sodium	232.2mg	9%
Total Carbohydrate	4.4g	1%
Dietary Fiber	0.3g	1%
Sugars	0.3g	N/A
Protein	16.9g	33%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with a dairy-free butter alternative. Omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs in the breadcrumb mixture. Try dried oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
• Citrus Infusion: Add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Spicy Shrimp: For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before peeling, deveining, and butterflying. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are done?
A: The shrimp are done when they turn opaque and firm to the touch. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).

Q: Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?
A: Yes, you can use different types of breadcrumbs, but the combination of Italian and panko breadcrumbs provides a nice balance of flavor and texture.

Q: What if I don’t have a broiler?
A: If you don’t have a broiler, you can bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: You can prepare the shrimp up to the point of broiling and store them covered in the refrigerator for a few hours. Broil them just before serving for the best results.

Final Thoughts

Broiled Butterflied Shrimp is more than just a recipe; it’s a memory, a taste of the coast, and a celebration of simple, fresh ingredients. I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create a flavor that you love. Serve it as an appetizer at your next gathering, or pair it with a fresh salad for a light and satisfying meal. Let me know what you think, and happy cooking!