If you are craving something quick, flavorful, and downright irresistible, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. It perfectly balances succulent shrimp with a crispy, cheesy topping that’s bursting with garlic and fresh herbs. Every bite offers a delightful mix of tender seafood and a slightly crunchy, golden crust that’s fun to dig into. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish brings together simplicity and gourmet flair in one beautiful plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward yet impactful ingredients. Each item plays a vital role, from the juicy shrimp to the zesty lemon juice that brightens the flavors, making this dish both comforting and exciting.
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off): Fresh or thawed, these are the star of the dish, providing succulent texture and flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic infuse into the shrimp perfectly.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a robust, aromatic kick that garlic lovers will adore.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential to bring out all the natural flavors of the shrimp and seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right touch of warmth to the seasoning.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a hint of heat that complements the garlic beautifully.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This golden, nutty cheese creates a wonderfully savory crust.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko): Provides a crispy texture and helps the topping brown nicely in the oven.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a bright, herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese topping.
- Juice of half a lemon: A burst of acidity that brightens every bite just before serving.
- Lemon wedges for serving: A fresh garnish that lets people add extra zing to their shrimp.
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Shrimp
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Greasing your baking dish lightly or lining it with parchment paper ensures an easy clean-up and prevents sticking. Next, toss your shrimp in a large bowl with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This combination is the foundation of flavor, coating every shrimp with savory goodness before baking.
Step 2: Arrange Shrimp and Prepare Topping
Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in your baking dish. This ensures even cooking and an appealing presentation. In a separate small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. This topping adds a crunchy and flavorful layer that bakes to golden perfection on top of the shrimp.
Step 3: Bake Until Perfect
Sprinkle the cheese and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp. Pop your dish into the oven for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the topping is a beautiful golden brown. The precise timing keeps the shrimp juicy without overcooking.
Step 4: Serve with a Fresh Squeeze
Once out of the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp to add a bright, refreshing finish that balances the richness. Serving with lemon wedges lets everyone customize their tang level. Your Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is now ready to delight!
How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top after baking adds a lovely pop of green and an herbal freshness that makes the dish really shine visually and in flavor. Adding extra lemon wedges on the side invites diners to add more citrus brightness to their taste.
Side Dishes
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Creamy risotto or simple garlic butter pasta soak up the flavorful juices beautifully. For a low-carb option, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad. Crusty bread is also fantastic for mopping up any leftover garlicky goodness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this dish over a bed of warm quinoa or couscous for a nutritious twist. For a classy appetizer, arrange the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks and a drizzle of fresh lemon aioli. Another fun idea: serve the shrimp stuffed inside avocado halves, topped with fresh herbs for a stunning presentation that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Be sure to cool the shrimp before sealing to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Freezing
While shrimp tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place the shrimp in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible. Use within 1 month for the best taste. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to prevent rubbery texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a low oven (around 300°F/150°C) for 5-7 minutes or until heated through. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the crispy Parmesan topping intact. A quick pan sauté on medium-low heat also works well to refresh the flavors without drying out the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to ensure they cook evenly and the topping adheres well. Using frozen shrimp is a convenient option without sacrificing flavor.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. The Parmesan cheese alone will still give a deliciously crispy, golden crust.
Can I add other spices or herbs to the recipe?
Definitely! While the classic combination of garlic, Parmesan, and parsley is fantastic, feel free to experiment with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, or even fresh thyme for a different flavor profile.
How do I know when shrimp is perfectly cooked?
Cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque throughout. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so stick to the recommended baking time of 10 to 12 minutes and monitor the color closely for best results.
What can I serve with Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe for a full meal?
Pair the shrimp with pasta tossed in garlic butter, a side of roasted asparagus, or fluffy rice. Adding a crisp green salad rounds out the meal with freshness and texture variety.
Final Thoughts
This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is an absolute gem that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. It’s versatile, crowd-pleasing, and perfect whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself. I encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight dinner that comes together in a flash but feels like a special occasion every time.
Print
Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe features tender, juicy shrimp coated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection. It’s a quick and easy main course perfect for a weeknight dinner, served with fresh lemon wedges for a burst of citrusy brightness.
Ingredients
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Finishing
- Juice of half a lemon
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine shrimp and seasoning: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes, making sure each shrimp is evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.
- Arrange shrimp in dish: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer within the prepared baking dish to allow for even cooking.
- Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and chopped fresh parsley until well combined.
- Apply topping and bake: Sprinkle the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp. Bake uncovered in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink, become opaque, and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Add lemon juice and serve: Once baked, immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp for a bright, fresh flavor. Serve warm with lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus zest if desired.
Notes
- This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
- For a gluten-free option, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them completely.
- Add a splash of white wine to the shrimp mixture before baking to enhance the flavor profile.
