Sheet Pan Shrimp and Asparagus – Easy Weeknight Dinner

Sheet Pan Shrimp & Asparagus

Your new go-to weeknight dinner!

⏱️ Prep Time 10 min
🔥 Cook Time 12 min
🕐 Total 22 min
🍽️ Serves 4

Why You’ll Make This On Repeat

When you need something fast, elegant, and absolutely delicious, this sheet pan shrimp and asparagus is your answer. In just 22 minutes, you get perfectly roasted shrimp cloaked in garlic butter and tender-crisp asparagus — a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices or effort. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but special enough for company.

💡 The Key to Perfect Shrimp

Don’t overcook! Shrimp go from tender to rubbery in just a few minutes. Look for that C-shape — when they curl into a nice curve, they’re done. Also, pat them completely dry before roasting — wet shrimp steam instead of getting those beautiful golden edges.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 bunch asparagus (trimmed)
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1 tsp lemon zest
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese (grated)
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

  1. Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels — moisture prevents proper browning.
  2. Prepare the asparagus: Arrange the trimmed asparagus in a single layer on one side of the sheet pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then season with half the salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to coat evenly.
  3. Make the garlic butter: In a small microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter and minced garlic. Microwave for 30-45 seconds until the butter is melted and fragrant. Alternatively, melt in a small saucepan over low heat.
  4. Arrange the shrimp: Place the shrimp on the other side of the sheet pan in a single layer. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and remaining salt and pepper. Pour the garlic butter evenly over the shrimp.
  5. Roast to perfection: Roast for 10-12 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the shrimp are pink and opaque (they should form a C shape) and the asparagus is tender but still bright green.
  6. Add the finishing touches: Remove from the oven. Sprinkle with fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped parsley, and grated Parmesan cheese. Give everything a gentle toss to combine.
  7. Serve immediately: Serve hot right from the oven with lemon wedges on the side. This dish is best enjoyed fresh — the shrimp are most flavorful when warm!

Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Dry the shrimp well: This is the #1 tip for achieving that golden, slightly crispy exterior. Paper towels are your friend!
  • Don’t overcrowd: Spread shrimp in a single layer with space between each. Crowding = steaming = sad shrimp.
  • Watch the shrimp: They go from done to overdone quickly. Start checking at 10 minutes — look for that C-curve shape.
  • Trim the asparagus: Snap off the woody ends naturally or cut about 2 inches from the bottom for tender spears throughout.
  • Add the butter last: The garlic butter that pools in the pan becomes an incredible sauce — don’t let it burn!

What to Serve With It

🍚 Steamed Rice
🍝 Angel Hair Pasta
🥖 Crusty Bread
🥗 Mixed Green Salad
🥔 Roasted Potatoes
🍷 White Wine

Fun Variations

🧄 Extra Garlicky

Double the garlic for an even more intense flavor. Your kitchen will smell amazing!

🌶️ Spicy Version

Add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne for some heat.

🥦 Add More Veggies

Toss in cherry tomatoes, zucchini slices, or bell pepper strips.

🧀 Cheesy Upgrade

Add extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of mozzarella for a cheesy finish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

320
Calories
20g
Fat
8g
Carbs
28g
Protein

Perfect for quick weeknights, date nights, and any time you need a delicious meal in minutes!