Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

The moment you slide a tray of Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp into the oven, the kitchen fills with the irresistible aroma of sizzling garlic, melting butter, and nutty Parmesan. The golden crumbs on top promise a delicate crunch, while the tender shrimp beneath glisten with savory goodness. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet effortless, making every bite a little celebration.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from my love for quick yet impressive seafood dinners. I remember the first time I made it for friends on a breezy summer evening, windows open, laughter in the background. The scent of roasted garlic drifted out into the garden, pulling everyone toward the table before I could even call them in. Since then, it’s been my go-to whenever I want to wow without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Garlic and Parmesan are a pairing with deep roots in Italian cooking, where simplicity and flavor go hand in hand. While shrimp is more of a coastal indulgence, combining it with these classic flavors bridges land and sea beautifully. This baked version draws on the tradition of gratin-style seafood dishes popular in Mediterranean regions, where breadcrumbs and cheese form a golden crust over tender seafood.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Versatile: Works as an appetizer, main dish, or even a pasta topper.
Budget-Friendly: Uses minimal ingredients with maximum flavor impact.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
Customizable: Adjust seasoning or add herbs to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Savory, buttery, and cheesy—what’s not to love?
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the topping in advance for a stress-free dinner.
Great for Leftovers: Delicious cold in salads or gently reheated.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use large shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to help the topping stick.
• Grate your own Parmesan for a richer, fresher flavor.
• Don’t overbake; shrimp cook quickly and can become tough.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving for brightness.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking Sheet: For even heat distribution.
Mixing Bowl: To combine the buttery topping.
Microplane or Grater: For fresh Parmesan.
Tongs: For arranging and serving shrimp.
Pastry Brush: To coat shrimp evenly with butter mixture.

Ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Every ingredient plays a role in balancing rich, savory notes with fresh, bright flavors.

1. Large Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined, the star of the dish with a sweet, tender bite.
2. Unsalted Butter: 4 tablespoons, melted, adding richness and moisture.
3. Fresh Garlic: 3 cloves, minced, for that signature aroma and flavor.
4. Parmesan Cheese: ½ cup, finely grated, bringing nutty, salty depth.
5. Breadcrumbs: ⅓ cup, providing a golden, crisp topping.
6. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a fresh herbal lift.
7. Paprika: ½ teaspoon, for subtle warmth and color.
8. Salt: ¼ teaspoon, to enhance overall flavor.
9. Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon, freshly ground, for a gentle bite.
10. Lemon Wedges: For serving, adding brightness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Shrimp: Use scallops or firm white fish.
Butter: Substitute olive oil for a lighter option.
Parmesan Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch.
Parsley: Swap with fresh basil or chives.
Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a bolder flavor.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese: Aged for months, this cheese delivers an umami punch that pairs beautifully with seafood.
Garlic: When baked, garlic softens and mellows, releasing sweet, aromatic oils that infuse the whole dish.

Instructions for Making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity, letting each ingredient shine while creating a harmonious whole.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready when the shrimp go in.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper until well blended.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
4. Assemble the Dish: Arrange shrimp in a single layer, then spoon the topping over each piece.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 8–10 minutes until shrimp are pink and the topping is golden.
6. Finishing Touches: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the hot shrimp for brightness.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate immediately while the topping is still crisp.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The crisp breadcrumb-Parmesan crust contrasts beautifully with the succulent, tender shrimp beneath. The buttery garlic infuses each bite, while the fresh parsley and lemon cut through the richness for perfect balance.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Preheat the baking sheet for extra-crispy bottoms.
• Double the topping if you like more crunch.
• For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

What to Avoid

• Overcrowding the pan, which leads to steaming instead of baking.
• Using pre-grated Parmesan, which lacks flavor and melts poorly.
• Overcooking the shrimp, making them rubbery.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 220

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the topping mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Leftover cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold in salads. Freezing is possible but may affect texture.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Serve with crusty bread to soak up the buttery juices, or over pasta for a satisfying meal. It also pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Toss into a Caesar salad for a protein boost.
• Mix with warm rice and herbs for a quick shrimp pilaf.
• Use as a filling in a warm sandwich with garlic aioli.

Additional Tips

For extra depth, roast the garlic cloves before mincing. A sprinkle of fresh microgreens on top adds visual flair and freshness.

Make It a Showstopper

Serve on a large white platter with lemon wedges fanned out, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dusting of Parmesan for that “just baked” look.

Variations to Try

• Herb Crusted: Add fresh thyme and oregano to the topping.
• Chili Kick: Mix in chopped fresh chili for heat.
• Citrus Twist: Add orange zest along with lemon juice.
• Mediterranean Style: Include chopped olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Asian Fusion: Swap parsley for cilantro and add a dash of soy sauce.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.

2. What size shrimp works best?

Large or jumbo shrimp give the best texture and presentation.

3. Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, use vegan butter and a dairy-free cheese substitute.

4. Is fresh garlic necessary?

Fresh garlic offers the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch.

5. Can I grill instead of bake?

Yes, but watch closely as grilling cooks shrimp even faster.

6. What breadcrumbs are best?

Panko breadcrumbs offer extra crunch, but regular work too.

7. How do I know when shrimp are done?

They turn pink and opaque, with a slight curl.

8. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, cherry tomatoes or asparagus work well baked alongside.

9. Does this reheat well?

Yes, but reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just use a larger baking sheet or two.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a recipe that brings elegance to the table without demanding hours of effort. The blend of golden crunch, tender seafood, and bright citrus makes it an instant favorite. Trust me, you’re going to love this—worth every single bite.

Watch How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp