Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Quick Description
These Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp are tender, juicy, and coated in a savory, buttery garlic sauce with a crispy breadcrumb topping. The perfect combination of flavor and texture, this dish is an easy and elegant meal thatโ€™s ready in under 30 minutes. Ideal for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or a light meal.


Servings & Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15โ€“18 minutes
  • Total Time: ~25 minutes

Ingredients List

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp melted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • ยฝ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispness)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • ยฝ tsp salt
  • ยฝ tsp black pepper
  • ยฝ tsp paprika (optional for a slight kick)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (for serving)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Preheat your oven to 400ยฐF (200ยฐC).
Place the shrimp in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture
In a separate bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and fresh parsley. Mix well.

Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp
Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a baking dish. Spoon the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the shrimp, pressing lightly to coat each shrimp with the topping.

Step 4: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12โ€“15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. The breadcrumb topping should be golden and crispy.

Step 5: Serve
Remove the shrimp from the oven and drizzle with lemon juice for a fresh, zesty flavor. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.


Additional Notes

  • If you prefer a richer flavor, you can use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese for the topping.
  • For an extra crunchy topping, broil the shrimp for the last 2โ€“3 minutes of baking.
  • You can serve this dish over pasta, rice, or alongside a green salad for a complete meal.

Dietary Info

  • High-Protein
  • Low-Carb
  • Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Ingredient Details & Substitutions

  • Shrimp: You can use any size shrimp, but large shrimp work best for this recipe.
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs give a crispier texture, but you can use regular breadcrumbs as well.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will give the best flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions

  • Garlic Butter Shrimp: For a more indulgent version, add an extra tablespoon of butter to the shrimp before baking.
  • Spicy Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Serve with Sides: This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, steamed broccoli, or a fresh garden salad.

Storage & Make-Ahead

  • Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350ยฐF (175ยฐC) for 5โ€“7 minutes to retain the crispiness of the topping.

Nutrition (Per Serving โ€“ Approximate)

  • Calories: 220โ€“250
  • Protein: 22โ€“25 g
  • Fat: 16โ€“18 g
  • Carbs: 6โ€“8 g
  • Sugar: <1 g

FAQs

  • Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
    A: Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and garlic Parmesan mixture the day before and store them separately in the fridge. When ready, bake as directed.
  • Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
    A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and drain the shrimp well before cooking.
  • Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
    A: Yes, use dairy-free cheese and skip the butter, opting for a dairy-free butter substitute.

Optional Personal Story
I first made this dish for a family gathering, and it was a huge hit! The crispy, cheesy topping paired with tender shrimp made everyone ask for the recipe. Now, itโ€™s a regular on our weeknight dinner rotationโ€”quick, easy, and full of flavor!


Call-to-Action
Try these Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp today and enjoy a savory, satisfying meal thatโ€™s full of protein and flavor. Perfect for any occasion, and so easy to make! Let me know how you serve it!