This Shrimp Foil Packet is a fun and easy way to cook shrimp with veggies. You just toss everything into a foil packet and bake it in the oven—no fuss, no mess!
I love how the shrimp turns out juicy and flavorful. Plus, clean-up is a breeze! You can serve it right in the packet for a cozy dinner experience. 🦐✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled shrimp are best for this dish, as they’re fast to cook and delicious. If you’re unable to find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp will work perfectly—just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Alternatively, you could use chicken or firm tofu for a different protein.
Corn: Fresh corn on the cob adds sweetness and crunch. If corn is out of season, feel free to use frozen corn kernels. You can also skip it altogether and increase the amount of potatoes or other preferred veggies like zucchini or bell peppers.
Potatoes: Any small, waxy potatoes work well, such as new potatoes or red potatoes, since they hold their shape. For a lower-carb option, you can substitute with cauliflower or skip them entirely for extra veggies.
Seasonings: Smoked paprika gives a wonderful depth of flavor. Don’t worry if you don’t have it; regular paprika is a good substitute. If you like heat, use more cayenne or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
How Do You Make Sure Everything Cooks Evenly in a Foil Packet?
Ensuring even cooking in a foil packet recipe is key to delicious results! First, always cut vegetables into similar sizes for consistent cooking. For potatoes, thin slices help them cook faster. Secondly, layer the ingredients strategically; denser items like potatoes should go at the bottom, while quicker-cooking shrimp sit on top.
- Start by laying sliced onions and potatoes in the center of the foil.
- Drizzle these first with olive oil before placing the corn and shrimp on top.
- Don’t forget to seal the packet well so steam can circulate inside, ensuring everything cooks through.
- Lastly, keeping an eye on cooking time is essential—check for doneness around the 15-minute mark.
How to Make Shrimp Foil Packet In Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 small ear of corn, cut into 2-3 pieces
- 1 small red onion, sliced
- 1 small potato, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and then around 15-18 minutes of cooking time in the oven. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and flavorful shrimp dinner ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp and veggies cook perfectly when you pop them in.
2. Prepare the Foil:
Grab a large sheet of aluminum foil, about 12×12 inches. You’ll create a packet to hold all your tasty ingredients.
3. Season the Shrimp:
In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil or melted butter, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if you want some heat), salt, and black pepper. Mix it well until the shrimp are nicely coated in the seasonings.
4. Arrange the Vegetables:
In the center of your foil sheet, place the sliced potatoes and red onions. Drizzle just a little olive oil over them for added flavor. Then, arrange the corn pieces on top or alongside the potatoes and onions.
5. Layer the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the seasoned shrimp on top of the veggies. Make sure they are evenly spread out!
6. Fold the Packet:
Fold the foil over the ingredients and seal the edges tightly to make a packet. Do your best to leave some space inside for steam to circulate. This helps everything cook evenly!
7. Bake the Foil Packet:
Place your foil packet on a baking sheet (this makes it easier to handle) and bake it in the preheated oven for about 15-18 minutes. Check for doneness—make sure the shrimp are pink and the potatoes are tender.
8. Open with Care:
When your cooking time is up, carefully open the foil packet. The steam will come out, so be careful not to burn yourself. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the contents for added flavor.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve your shrimp foil packet right on the plate. Enjoy the delightful combination of flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using. You can do this overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional seasonings or sauces you use are certified gluten-free to keep the dish safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
How Can I Adjust Cooking Time for Other Proteins?
For chicken or fish, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. For chicken, ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), which might take about 20-25 minutes. For fish, it will typically take around 12-15 minutes depending on thickness. Always check for doneness before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat gently or use the oven to keep the shrimp tender and avoid overcooking.