If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with freshness, simplicity, and bold flavors, this Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is exactly what you need in your kitchen rotation. It’s an effortless way to combine tender shrimp with crisp asparagus, all roasted together to perfection on one pan. The beauty of this dish lies not only in its vibrant colors and mouthwatering aroma, but also in how perfectly the garlic, lemon, butter, and spices unite to create something that tastes far more sophisticated than the minimal prep suggests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, bringing texture, flavor, and freshness that make dinner feel like a little celebration. From the delicate snap of the asparagus to the juicy shrimp and the rich melt of butter, these pantry staples come together easily to deliver maximum impact.
- Thin asparagus (2 pounds): Choose fresh, tender spears with firm stalks for a perfect roast that keeps a little crunch.
- Olive oil (4 tablespoons total): Divided between asparagus and shrimp, this adds a silky coat that helps flavors meld and promotes beautiful roasting.
- Minced garlic (4 teaspoons total): Garlic is the backbone of this dish, infusing both veggies and shrimp with mouthwatering aroma and savoriness.
- Kosher sea salt (1 ½ teaspoons total): Essential for seasoning, enhancing every note in the shrimp and asparagus.
- Fresh ground black pepper (¾ teaspoon total): Adds just the right amount of gentle heat and earthiness.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): This smoky spice gives the shrimp a subtle warmth and gorgeous color.
- Red pepper flakes (¼ teaspoon): A little kick to brighten the flavor profile.
- Raw medium shrimp (2 pounds, peeled and deveined): The star protein, which cooks quickly and perfectly alongside the asparagus.
- Fresh parsley (6 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a burst of herbaceous brightness at the finish.
- Lemon juice (3 tablespoons): The perfect zesty drizzle to elevate the entire dish and balance richness.
- Butter (6 tablespoons, cubed): Melts over the asparagus to add lusciousness and depth.
How to Make Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Prepare a sheet pan by lining it with a silicone baking mat or foil and lightly spraying with cooking spray. This keeps everything from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Prepare and Roast the Asparagus
Place the trimmed asparagus on the sheet pan. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle the minced garlic, kosher salt, and black pepper evenly. Toss everything together right on the pan so each spear is nicely coated. Arrange the asparagus in a single layer and roast for 10 minutes. This step lets the asparagus soften while retaining just enough crunch.
Step 3: Season the Shrimp
While the asparagus is roasting, remove the tails from the shrimp if they’re still attached. In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, paprika, black pepper, and red pepper flakes until all the shrimp are fully coated in the flavorful seasoning.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp and Butter to the Pan
Once the asparagus has finished its initial baking, take the pan from the oven and gently push the asparagus to one side in a single layer. On the other side, spread the shrimp out evenly. Scatter the cubed butter over the asparagus so it will melt beautifully during the next roast.
Step 5: Roast Shrimp and Asparagus Together
Return the pan to the oven and roast for another 10 minutes. The shrimp is done when it curls into a “c” shape and turns a vibrant pink color. The butter will have melted into the asparagus, making it irresistibly rich and flavorful.
Step 6: Add Finishing Touches
Once roasted, remove the pan from the oven. Drizzle lemon juice over the shrimp and asparagus and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor and color. The dish is now ready to serve!
How to Serve Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a refreshing herbal lift and a pop of green that pairs beautifully with the lemony brightness drizzled at the end. For extra zest, try adding thin lemon slices or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese right before serving.
Side Dishes
This Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe shines when paired with fluffy white rice or a light quinoa salad. The grains soak up the buttery, lemony roasting juices perfectly, making every bite satisfying and well-rounded. A crusty baguette is also fantastic for mopping up all the delicious leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish over creamy polenta or toss the roasted shrimp and asparagus with cooked pasta for a quick dinner with a gourmet feel. Alternatively, arrange the shrimp and asparagus on a platter and let guests help themselves, turning it into a colorful sharing feast that feels festive and inviting.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The shrimp and asparagus will stay fresh for up to 2 days, so you can easily reheat for a quick, delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
While shrimp tends to lose some texture after freezing, you can freeze leftover Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe packed tightly in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. To preserve the best flavor and texture, it’s best to freeze the shrimp and asparagus separately if possible.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 300°F until heated through. Avoid the microwave for reheating shrimp if possible, as it can cause the shrimp to become rubbery. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice can help refresh the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning and roasting. This helps them cook evenly and prevents excess moisture from steaming the asparagus.
What if I don’t have asparagus? Can I substitute it?
Yes! Other sturdy vegetables like green beans, broccolini, or thinly sliced zucchini work wonderfully. Adjust roasting times slightly as these vegetables may roast a bit faster or slower.
Is this recipe spicy?
There is a subtle kick from the red pepper flakes, but it’s quite mild overall. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or leave them out entirely if you prefer a completely mild dish.
Can I make this recipe for fewer people?
Definitely! This recipe scales down nicely. Just adjust the ingredient quantities according to the number of servings you want, and use a smaller sheet pan for more even cooking.
What is the best way to ensure the shrimp don’t overcook?
Keep a close eye during the final roast stage. Shrimp cook quickly and are done as soon as they curl into a “c” shape and turn pink. Removing them promptly will keep them tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a special treat without any fuss. It’s colorful, flavorful, and comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining. I can’t wait for you to try it and add it to your go-to recipe collection for simple, show-stopping dinners.
