Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

There’s something magical about the combination of tender shrimp, rich Parmesan cheese, and the unmistakable aroma of roasted garlic drifting through the kitchen. This dish captures that magic and wraps it in a golden, bubbling embrace. Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is one of those recipes that feels indulgent yet is incredibly simple to bring together, making it perfect for weeknights or special occasions alike.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born out of my love for easy seafood dinners that still feel like a treat. I remember the first time I made it — the shrimp curled up perfectly in the oven, their delicate sweetness mingling with the savory depth of Parmesan and the warm, comforting scent of garlic. It’s a recipe that has since become my go-to when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Shrimp has been a beloved ingredient in coastal cuisines around the world for centuries, from Mediterranean garlic butter shrimp to spicy Cajun varieties. The idea of pairing seafood with cheese, once considered a culinary taboo, has been embraced in Italian-American kitchens, where baked Parmesan toppings add irresistible flavor and texture. This dish takes inspiration from that blend of traditions, giving you a flavorful nod to both classic European and modern comfort food styles.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Versatile: Works as a main course, appetizer, or even a luxurious pasta topper.
Budget-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients you likely already have at home.
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
Customizable: Adjust the spice level or add fresh herbs to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing: Savory, cheesy, and garlicky — it’s a flavor trio loved by all.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Assemble ahead of time and bake when ready.
Great for Leftovers: Tastes just as good reheated or tossed into a salad the next day.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Use fresh shrimp when possible for the sweetest flavor and best texture.
• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to help the coating stick and bake evenly.
• Grate Parmesan fresh for a richer, more aromatic taste.
• Bake just until shrimp turn pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

Baking Dish: Holds the shrimp in a single layer for even cooking.
Mixing Bowl: Perfect for tossing shrimp with seasonings.
Microplane or Grater: For freshly grating Parmesan cheese.
Garlic Press: Quickly minces garlic for maximum flavor release.
Tongs: Makes tossing and arranging shrimp effortless.

Ingredients in Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

It’s the harmony of these few simple ingredients that makes this dish shine. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of flavors.

1. Large Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined, provide tender, juicy bites.
2. Olive Oil: 3 tablespoons, coats shrimp and helps flavors meld.
3. Garlic Cloves: 4 cloves, minced, add warm, savory aroma.
4. Parmesan Cheese: 1/2 cup, freshly grated, delivers nutty richness.
5. Breadcrumbs: 1/4 cup, creates a golden, crispy topping.
6. Paprika: 1 teaspoon, adds gentle warmth and color.
7. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, enhances all the flavors.
8. Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, adds subtle heat.
9. Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped, for a burst of freshness.
10. Lemon Wedges: For serving, brightens and balances flavors.

Ingredient Substitutions

Shrimp: Use scallops or chunks of firm white fish.
Olive Oil: Melted butter for a richer taste.
Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
Breadcrumbs: Panko for extra crunch.
Paprika: Smoked paprika for deeper, smokier notes.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese: Known for its nutty, savory depth, Parmesan develops a golden crust when baked, adding irresistible flavor and texture.
Garlic: When roasted, garlic becomes sweeter and more mellow, creating a rich foundation for the dish.

Instructions for Making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Let’s walk through the simple steps to bring this dish from kitchen to table.

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you are.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
4. Assemble the Dish: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Sprinkle any remaining breadcrumb mixture over the top.
5. Cook to Perfection: Bake for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque and topping is golden.
6. Finishing Touches: Sprinkle with fresh parsley for color and freshness.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate shrimp with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze before eating.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The crispy breadcrumb-Parmesan topping provides a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender, juicy shrimp. The garlic infuses both the topping and the shrimp, creating layers of savory depth, while the lemon adds a refreshing brightness at the very end.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Use room-temperature shrimp for more even cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan — shrimp need space to bake, not steam.
• Try a quick broil at the end for extra golden topping.

What to Avoid

• Skipping the pat-dry step, which leads to soggy coating.
• Overbaking, which makes shrimp rubbery.
• Using pre-grated Parmesan, which often lacks flavor.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 210
Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

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

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish can be prepped ahead by coating the shrimp and storing them covered in the fridge for up to 8 hours before baking. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat gently in the oven to keep the topping crisp.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Serve these shrimp with a crisp green salad, buttery garlic bread, or over a bed of pasta. They also make a stunning party platter appetizer with toothpicks and a lemony dipping sauce.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Toss into a Caesar salad for a hearty lunch.
• Use as a topping for creamy risotto.
• Fold into a warm wrap with greens and aioli.

Additional Tips

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat, or a sprinkle of fresh basil for a summery twist.

Make It a Showstopper

Arrange shrimp in a spiral in the baking dish, sprinkle with extra parsley and a touch more Parmesan just before serving. Present on a white platter to make the colors pop.

Variations to Try

• Add a light coating of crushed nuts to the topping for nutty crunch.
• Swap paprika for Italian seasoning for a herby touch.
• Use a mix of cheddar and Parmesan for a bolder flavor profile.

FAQ’s

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before using.

2. Can I make this without breadcrumbs?

Yes, simply increase the Parmesan slightly for a crust without crumbs.

3. What size shrimp works best?

Large or extra-large shrimp give the best texture and presentation.

4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but reduce bake time to avoid overcooking.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, if you use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

7. How do I know when shrimp are done?

They turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape.

8. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely, bell peppers or zucchini bake well alongside shrimp.

9. What wine pairs well with this?

A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements the flavors.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but use two baking dishes so shrimp don’t overcrowd.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is one of those rare recipes that’s as easy to make as it is delightful to eat. With its crispy, cheesy topping and tender, flavorful shrimp, it’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Trust me, this one’s a total game-changer — worth every bite.

Watch How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp