This Shrimp Foil Packet is a fun and easy dish that brings delicious flavors together! Just mix shrimp with veggies, seasonings, and wrap it all in foil. Bake it in the oven, and voila!
I love how simple this is—no messy cleanup! Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies. It’s like a little surprise package of yummy goodness! 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are great for this dish. If you don’t have large shrimp, medium ones will work too, but they will cook a bit faster. You could use other seafood like scallops or even chicken, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Corn: I love using fresh corn for sweetness. If fresh corn isn’t available, frozen corn kernels are a good alternative. Just toss them in without thawing.
Potatoes: Baby potatoes are perfect as they hold their shape and cook quickly. If you’re low on time, use pre-cooked potatoes or substitute with another quick-cooking vegetable like zucchini.
Butter: Unsalted butter is my go-to for the flavor. If you’d like a lighter option, olive oil can be a substitute, and it adds a nice, rich flavor too.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but you can use garlic powder in smaller amounts if needed. Be careful with the amount, as the flavor is stronger in powder form.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they can go from perfectly tender to overcooked very quickly. Here’s how to get them just right:
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; shrimp usually take about 20-25 minutes in the oven. Adjust based on size.
- You can tell shrimp are cooked when they are pink and opaque. If they curl tightly, they might be overdone—so just watch them carefully!
- Consider the other ingredients too; potatoes need to be tender, so you can give them a head start by cooking them for a few minutes before adding shrimp.
Following these tips will help you create a delicious shrimp foil packet that everyone will love! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make a Shrimp Foil Packet in the Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 small ear of corn, cut into chunks
- 8 baby potatoes (mix of red and yellow), halved
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon, sliced into wedges
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Aluminum foil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Shrimp Foil Packet will take about 10 minutes to prepare, followed by 20-25 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So, in just half an hour, you can have a tasty meal ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Prepare the Butter Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with minced garlic, smoked paprika, chili powder (if you like a little heat), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir this mixture well to make sure all the flavors blend together nicely!
3. Set Up the Foil Packet:
Now, take a large piece of aluminum foil (around 12×12 inches), and lay it flat. Place the halved baby potatoes and corn chunks in a single layer on the foil. This will be the base of your meal!
4. Add the Butter Mixture:
Drizzle about half of the butter mixture over the potatoes and corn. Give them a gentle toss with your hands to make sure everything is well coated and flavorful!
5. Layer the Shrimp:
Next, arrange the peeled and deveined shrimp over the vegetables. Drizzle the remaining butter mixture over the shrimp to give them that delicious flavor. Yummy!
6. Add Lemon and Parsley:
Place the lemon wedges on top of the shrimp and sprinkle everything with chopped fresh parsley. This will add a burst of freshness to your dish!
7. Seal the Packet:
Carefully fold the foil over the ingredients and seal it tightly, creating a packet. Make sure it’s well-sealed to keep all the steam and flavors inside while it cooks.
8. Bake in the Oven:
Place the foil packet on a baking sheet to catch any drips. Bake it in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp are pink and opaque and the potatoes are tender.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Once done, remove the packet from the oven carefully (it will be hot!). Open the foil packet and enjoy the wonderful aromas. Spoon the buttery juices over the shrimp and veggies as you serve. Enjoy your delightful meal!
Happy cooking! This shrimp foil packet is not just tasty but also an incredibly fun way to enjoy your dinner with minimal cleanup!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before using. You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Other Vegetables Can I Add?
Feel free to customize the packet with your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or green beans all make excellent additions. Just remember that firmer vegetables like carrots will need to be pre-cooked a bit longer.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. However, enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
Can I Make This Dish on the Grill?
Absolutely! Instead of using the oven, you can grill the foil packet over medium heat. Just cook for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. It adds a lovely smoky flavor!