Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and downright delicious dinner, Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is your new best friend in the kitchen. This easy-to-make dish combines juicy shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, then baked to cheesy perfection with Parmesan. Whether you’re rushing through a weeknight or entertaining friends, this crowd-pleaser brings together bold flavors and simple ingredients for an unbeatable combination.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Lightning-fast prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
• Flavor-packed: The blend of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible, savory bite every time.
• Nutritious protein: Shrimp is a lean source of protein that cooks quickly without hassle.
• Minimal cleanup: Baked in one dish, making post-dinner clean-up a breeze.
• Versatile dish: Easy to pair with a variety of sides to suit your mood.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp plays a simple but essential role in delivering maximum flavor and delightful texture. From the tender shrimp to the sharpness of Parmesan and freshness of garlic, these ingredients work in harmony to make this dish pop.

• Fresh shrimp: Peeled and deveined shrimp ensure tenderness and fast cooking.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic adds rich, aromatic flavor that’s key to this recipe.
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated Parmesan melts beautifully, adding umami and crisp topping.
• Butter: Melted butter creates a luscious base that enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
• Lemon juice: A splash of fresh lemon brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
• Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that deepens the savory flavor profile.
• Salt and pepper: Essentials to season and elevate every bite.
• Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish to add a pop of color and fresh herb taste.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Feel free to customize this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe to suit your taste buds or dietary preferences. Small tweaks can take this dish from classic to creative in minutes.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes for a subtle heat that complements the garlic and cheese.
• Keto-friendly: Skip any breadcrumbs and load up on extra Parmesan for low-carb magic.
• Herb swap: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley to change the flavor profile.
• Dairy-free: Substitute butter with olive oil and nutritional yeast for cheesy flavor.
• Crunch factor: Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan on top and broil for a crispy crust.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water then pat dry with paper towels to ensure the garlic butter sticks well.

Step 2: Mix the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In a bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese to create a creamy, flavorful sauce.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp in the garlic Parmesan sauce until every piece is generously coated. This step ensures each bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking dish or sheet. Pour any remaining sauce on top then bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, garlicky goodness at its best.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

• Choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp: This ensures the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overbake: Shrimp cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left too long.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts better and offers richer taste than pre-grated cheese.
• Make the sauce ahead: Prepare the garlic Parmesan sauce in advance to speed up cooking time.
• Add lemon zest: For an extra citrus punch, sprinkle in some zest for brighter flavor.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Garnishes

Fresh parsley or basil enhances the dish with a touch of color and herbaceous aroma, while a wedge of lemon invites diners to customize the citrus brightness.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp pairs beautifully with buttery garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or creamy risotto for a comforting meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles or quinoa for a light yet filling option. Alternatively, pile the shrimp atop a warm bowl of pasta or toss into a fresh green salad for a delightful twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked shrimp by placing them in a freezer-safe bag with any leftover sauce. Use within one month for best taste and texture.

Reheating

Reheat shrimp gently in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes or in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking and preserve tenderness.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can dilute the flavors.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This version uses no breadcrumbs, making it naturally gluten-free and friendly to those with gluten sensitivities.

Can I make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and shrimp in advance, then bake right before serving to enjoy fresh, hot shrimp every time.

What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp quickly?

Use kitchen shears to cut along the back, then lift out the vein with the tip of a knife or toothpick—it’s surprisingly fast once you get the hang of it.

How spicy is this dish?

On its own, Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is mild and flavorful; however, you can easily add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for extra heat.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to whip up Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp quickly and effortlessly, there’s no reason to skip this sensational dish on your dinner menu. It’s simple, cheesy, garlicky, and perfectly baked shrimp that taste like a gourmet treat any day of the week. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a new favorite to share and savor often.

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