Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

If you’re looking for a simple, yet dazzling dish that bursts with flavor, this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is about to become your new go-to. Perfect for swift weeknight dinners or impressing guests without drowning in prep, this dish brings together succulent shrimp, rich Parmesan, and aromatic garlic to create a mouthwatering meal with minimal fuss. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving a crowd, this recipe guarantees tasty results every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.
• Flavor-Packed: The blend of garlic and Parmesan gives each bite a deliciously savory and cheesy punch.
• Healthy and Light: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making this a nutritious, guilt-free meal.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples you likely already have, keeping grocery shopping stress-free.
• Versatile: Easily pairs with various sides or can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in delivering the perfect blend of texture and flavor without complicating the cooking process.

• Raw Shrimp: Peeled and deveined, medium or large size works best for an ideal bite.
• Garlic Cloves: Freshly minced to infuse the dish with bright, aromatic flavor.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated for the best melt and a rich, nutty taste.
• Olive Oil: Adds moisture and helps the shrimp cook evenly while enhancing richness.
• Lemon Juice: Provides a fresh citrusy zing that balances the creamy Parmesan.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
• Parsley (optional): Freshly chopped for a pop of color and a hint of herbaceous brightness.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tweak it to suit your taste or dietary preferences without losing any of its charm.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring warmth.
• Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh thyme, oregano, or basil for a complex herbal note.
• Butter Swap: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer, creamier texture.
• Breadcrumb Topping: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan for a crunchy crust.
• Low Sodium: Use reduced-sodium cheese and salt substitutes for a heart-friendly version.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready to bake the shrimp perfectly. A hot oven is key for a quick cook and slightly crispy edges.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels. This step helps the olive oil and seasonings adhere better, resulting in a more flavorful dish.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In a bowl, combine minced garlic, grated Parmesan, olive oil, and lemon juice. Stir until the ingredients form a well-blended paste that will coat every shrimp with a blast of deliciousness.

Step 4: Coat the Shrimp

Gently toss the shrimp in the garlic Parmesan mixture until evenly coated. Make sure each piece is well covered to maximize flavor and browning during baking.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased dish. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque, and the Parmesan is golden.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, sprinkle fresh parsley on top if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Thawed fresh shrimp taste best and cook more evenly.
• Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook fast; pull them out as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Customize Your Parmesan: Use freshly grated cheese rather than pre-shredded for a smoother melt.
• Prep Ahead: Mix the garlic Parmesan coating in advance to save time on busy nights.
• Enhance Flavor: Add a splash of white wine or a hint of paprika for subtle complexity.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil for color contrast and a fresh herbal note that complements the rich flavors.

Side Dishes

This shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed rice, garlic bread, or a crisp green salad to balance the richness of the Parmesan and garlic.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the shrimp over creamy risotto, pasta tossed in olive oil, or even stuffed into toasted baguette halves for shrimp bruschetta that’s perfect for entertaining.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days, ensuring you consume them while they’re fresh.

Freezing

Although best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed bag or container for up to 1 month; thaw gently in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp quickly in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to preserve texture without overcooking.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works fine as long as it is fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess moisture during baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! The basic recipe is naturally gluten-free, just be sure to use Parmesan and other ingredients that aren’t processed with gluten-containing additives.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely! Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne into the garlic Parmesan mixture to spice things up to your liking.

How do I know when the shrimp is done?

Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn opaque and pink with a slight curl; overcooking can cause them to become tough.

What’s the best way to serve this recipe for a party?

Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp in small bowls with toothpicks or over a bed of rice or pasta to let guests help themselves easily.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is one of those effortless yet unforgettable dishes that can elevate any meal. It’s fast to make, flavorful, and flexible enough to suit many occasions, making it a must-have in your recipe box. So next time you’re craving something delicious without the fuss, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!

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