If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug at the dinner table, then you have to try this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe. It combines juicy, tender shrimp with a luscious garlic butter sauce and the irresistible richness of Parmesan cheese, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. This easy-to-make recipe captures the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and slightly spicy flavors that will have you reaching for seconds and impressing everyone around your table. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe promises a deliciously satisfying seafood experience that feels both elegant and effortlessly comforting.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is how it relies on simple, fresh ingredients that come together to create a powerhouse of flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role from the creamy butter to the tangy lemon wedges, making this dish pop with delightful tastes, colors, and textures.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, tender and juicy shrimp provide a perfect, light seafood base.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): Adds richness and helps infuse the garlic flavor into every bite.
- 4 cloves garlic (minced): Fresh garlic brings a fragrant and zesty punch that pairs wonderfully with shrimp.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts over the shrimp to create a golden, cheesy crust that’s utterly irresistible.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note and a gorgeous hue to brighten up the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A mix of herbs that rounds out the flavors with hints of oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning that enhances and balances the overall flavor.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Adds a zesty citrus kick that cuts through the richness and lifts the dish beautifully.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot, perfect for quick baking that keeps shrimp tender. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic mixture is the flavor foundation, infusing the shrimp with buttery, garlicky goodness as it bakes.
Step 2: Arrange the Shrimp and Coat with Sauce
Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish or rimmed sheet pan. This ensures each shrimp cooks evenly and gets glazed without overcrowding. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, then toss gently to coat each piece thoroughly. This step guarantees that every bite bursts with flavor.
Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese and Bake
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly across the shrimp. It will melt and create a savory, slightly crisp topping once baked. Bake the shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes until they turn a lovely pink and are cooked through. If you want an extra golden top, switch on the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes, but watch closely so it doesn’t burn.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the oven and immediately sprinkle generously with fresh chopped parsley for a final burst of color and freshness. Serve the dish piping hot alongside lemon wedges, ready to squeeze over for that perfect tangy finish.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a classic choice to add a little green and a fresh herbal note. But don’t stop there—try a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil for extra richness. A twist of lemon zest can also add a fragrant citrus lift that complements the baked shrimp beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Offer it alongside buttery garlic mashed potatoes or toss some al dente pasta in olive oil and garlic for an Italian-inspired meal. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables bring balance, while crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all the garlicky, cheesy juices.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy risotto, or pile them on top of cooked quinoa or couscous. If you’re entertaining, arrange the shrimp on a platter garnished with lemon slices and whole sprigs of parsley for a vibrant, rustic feel. You can even skewer the shrimp after baking for a fun appetizer option that’s perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Because shrimp cook quickly, they’ll keep their tenderness and flavor if properly chilled, making it easy to enjoy a quick seafood meal the next day.
Freezing
While baked shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers by tightly wrapping the shrimp in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. Use within 1 month for best quality. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently to maintain texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the shrimp rubbery. Adding a little butter or a squeeze of lemon while reheating helps refresh the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before baking. This prevents excess moisture that could make the shrimp steam instead of bake, ensuring they turn out perfectly tender and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this dish spicy?
Definitely. You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce to give the dish a spicy kick. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Yes, but Parmesan’s unique sharp, nutty flavor complements garlic and shrimp wonderfully. If you want to experiment, try Pecorino Romano for a similar salty twist or a mild mozzarella for a gooey, melty texture, though it will alter the classic taste.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp cook very quickly and are done as soon as they turn pink and slightly curl. If they start to curl tightly into an “O” shape or become opaque, it means they’re overcooked. In this recipe, 8 to 10 minutes in a hot oven usually yields perfectly tender shrimp.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
You can use dried parsley in a pinch, but fresh parsley really brings brightness and a pop of color that dried can’t match. Alternatively, fresh cilantro or basil can work well if you enjoy their flavors with seafood.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe is one of those magic dishes that feels sophisticated yet comes together in no time. It’s perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors that are cozy and comforting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers juicy shrimp, garlicky richness, and cheesy goodness all in one delicious bite. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a favorite go-to meal in your kitchen!
