If you are looking for a dish that is bursting with flavor and comes together in a flash, this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines succulent shrimp coated with a crispy, garlicky Parmesan topping that bakes up golden and irresistible. Every bite offers a wonderful balance of buttery richness, aromatic garlic, and a slight hint of spice, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests. This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that will quickly become one of your go-to seafood favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully selected to build layers of flavor while keeping the preparation straightforward, so you get an impressive result with minimal fuss.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic aroma throughout the dish.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: The star flavor that makes the dish mouthwatering and fragrant.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a salty, nutty crust that browns beautifully when baked.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides the prized crispy texture on top of the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the dish with fresh herbal notes and a pop of color.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky undertone.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Gives a gentle kick of heat without overpowering the garlic or cheese.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Lemon wedges, for serving: A zesty finish that complements the richness of the shrimp perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Shrimp
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature ensures the shrimp cooks evenly while giving the Parmesan topping a golden glow. Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Arrange your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer so that each piece cooks perfectly without overcrowding.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Generously season the arranged shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step elevates the natural flavor of the shrimp and sets the stage for the bold garlic and Parmesan topping to shine.
Step 3: Add Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with the minced garlic. Drizzle this fragrant, buttery mixture evenly over the shrimp, ensuring each one gets coated. This garlic butter infusion is the secret to making the shrimp juicy and flavorful inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Topping
Mix together the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, paprika, and red pepper flakes in another bowl. This mixture will create the irresistible crunchy, cheesy crust that makes this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe so special. Sprinkle this evenly over the buttered shrimp, covering each piece with a crispy layer.
Step 5: Bake Until Perfect
Place your baking dish in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, with the topping golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overcooking – tender shrimp with a crunchy topping is the goal here.
Step 6: Serve with Lemon Wedges
Once out of the oven, serve your shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. The bright acidity cuts through the richness beautifully and lifts every bite.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds a vibrant pop of green and freshness, enhancing both the dish’s appearance and taste. A light scatter of extra Parmesan can also add a bit more cheesy indulgence right before serving.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A crisp green salad or steamed asparagus provides a refreshing contrast, while creamy risotto or garlic buttered pasta can soak up any leftover buttery garlic sauce for an extra satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a memorable presentation, arrange the baked shrimp over a bed of lemon-infused quinoa or serve them inside halved baguettes for a gourmet shrimp po’boy twist. You can also skewer the shrimp for a fun appetizer or party platter option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let the shrimp cool to room temperature before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The topping might lose some crispness but the flavors remain delicious.
Freezing
While shrimp tastes best fresh, you can freeze cooked Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe in a sealed container for up to a month. Be sure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to maintain texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a 300°F oven for about 8-10 minutes to warm through without drying out the shrimp or burning the topping. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it may make the breadcrumbs soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the crispy topping.
Is it okay to omit the red pepper flakes?
Yes, red pepper flakes are optional and can be left out if you prefer a milder dish. The garlic and Parmesan still provide plenty of robust flavor.
What can I substitute for panko breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs can work, though the texture will be slightly less crunchy. Crushed crackers or cornflakes are creative alternatives.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Butter adds essential richness and flavor here, but if you need a substitute, olive oil can be used though the flavor will be different. Just make sure it’s enough to coat the shrimp well with the garlic.
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque with a slight curl. Overcooking can make shrimp rubbery, so bake until just cooked through, usually 12-15 minutes at 375°F.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy tender, flavorful shrimp with a deliciously crispy, cheesy crust. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet special enough to wow friends and family. Once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back for this irresistible combination over and over again. Don’t hesitate—grab those ingredients and savor every bite of this delightful dish!
Print
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe offers a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring large shrimp baked under a golden, cheesy breadcrumb topping infused with garlic, parsley, and a hint of paprika. Perfect as a weeknight dinner or elegant appetizer, it combines rich butter, sharp Parmesan, and crispy panko for an irresistible texture and taste.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
Butter and Garlic
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Serving
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Prepare Shrimp: Arrange the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Season them with salt and pepper evenly to enhance flavor.
- Add Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter with the minced garlic. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the shrimp to infuse them with rich garlic flavor.
- Make Topping: In a separate bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, paprika, and optionally, red pepper flakes to add a bit of heat. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp to create a flavorful crust.
- Bake Shrimp: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the topping becomes golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges for squeezing over each portion to add a fresh, bright contrast to the rich dish.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp if possible for best flavor, but frozen shrimp can be thawed and used as well.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to desired spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts.
- This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables, rice, or a simple side salad.
- Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
