Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe

If you’re craving something decadent yet incredibly easy, Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is the answer to weeknight dinner fatigue! Imagine juicy shrimp blanketed in garlicky, cheesy goodness, kissed with a touch of lemon, and finished with fresh parsley—every bite bursts with flavor. Whether you’re new to seafood or a seasoned shrimp lover, this dish is ready in just 20 minutes and feels like a restaurant treat in your own kitchen. Once you try Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp lies in its simplicity: just a handful of staple ingredients work together to deliver maximum flavor and color. Each component has a special job to do, from infusing the shrimp with rich, garlicky notes to providing a final burst of brightness and crunch.

• Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the tender, meaty star of this dish—keep the tails on for flair, or remove for easy eating.
• Olive Oil: Helps the seasonings coat each shrimp and lends a silky texture when baked.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is the backbone of bold, aromatic flavor—don’t be shy with it!
• Salt: A little bit goes a long way to bring out the briny sweetness of the shrimp.
• Black Pepper: Adds mellow warmth and depth without overpowering the dish.
• Smoked Paprika: Provides subtle smokiness and a pop of gorgeous color in every bite.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For just a touch of heat; adjust to your taste!
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts into a crisp, golden crust—pre-shredded works in a pinch, but fresh is best.
• Lemon Juice: Squeezed over after baking for a vibrant, tangy finish that brightens up the whole plate.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds color and a fresh, herbal lift—sprinkle just before serving for maximum impact.
• Lemon Wedges: For serving and squeezing over individual portions, giving a custom zing to every bite.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats, give your baking dish or sheet pan a light greasing with a quick drizzle of olive oil or a spritz of nonstick spray. This keeps your shrimp from sticking and helps them cook evenly, ensuring you get every last bit of cheesy, garlicky goodness off the pan.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Grab a large mixing bowl and toss in your peeled and deveined shrimp. Pour in the olive oil, then add the minced garlic, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes if you like a subtle kick. Give everything a thorough toss so each shrimp is glossy and beautifully seasoned from tip to tail.

Step 3: Arrange and Top

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer across your prepared baking dish. Don’t crowd them—space is key for even cooking. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp, making sure to cover as much surface as possible. The cheese will melt and bubble into a golden topping you’ll want to scoop up with bread.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Slide the pan into the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. You’ll know your Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp are ready when they turn pink and opaque, and the cheese is just starting to turn a light golden color. For that irresistible bubbly, browned top, turn your broiler on for an extra 1–2 minutes at the end—just watch closely to avoid burning.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately drizzle the shrimp with fresh lemon juice for a punch of brightness. Scatter the chopped parsley all over for a burst of herby freshness. Bring to the table with lemon wedges, because a fresh squeeze just before eating makes each bite sing.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Garnishes

A final shower of chopped parsley brings color and freshness, while lemon wedges on the side offer that perfect, tangy last touch. If you’re feeling fancy, add an extra sprinkle of Parmesan right before serving for even more savory oomph.

Side Dishes

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is at home on top of just about anything! Toss it over buttery pasta, spoon it alongside fluffy white rice, or serve it up with a slab of crusty bread to mop up all those beautifully infused pan juices. For a lighter option, pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this dish into elegant appetizers by threading shrimp onto skewers, or tuck them into crisp lettuce cups for a hand-held starter. For a main course, display your Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp in a large platter with lemon slices and parsley scattered on top—so easy, yet absolutely stunning for guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house), pop them in an airtight container in the fridge. Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp keeps well for up to 2 days, and flavors actually settle in a bit more overnight.

Freezing

While shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results—just note the cheese may lose a little of its wonderful crispness.

Reheating

To warm up, spread the shrimp out on a baking sheet and heat in a 325°F oven for about 5 minutes, until just warmed through. A quick spin under the broiler revives that golden Parmesan crust. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but try not to overdo it or the shrimp may turn rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before marinating and baking. This keeps the seasoning from sliding off and ensures they roast, not steam.

What size shrimp works best?

Large or extra-large shrimp really shine here, as they stay juicy and meaty, especially under that blanket of Parmesan. Smaller shrimp will work, too—just reduce the baking time so they don’t overcook.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As written, Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is naturally gluten-free and perfect for those who want a low-carb seafood dinner. Just check your cheese and spices to ensure there are no hidden additives.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

You’ll know your shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque, curling into gentle “C” shapes. Overcooking makes shrimp tough, so check at the 8-minute mark.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep the shrimp and seasonings a few hours ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, arrange on your baking dish, add the Parmesan, and bake as directed for fresh, piping-hot Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp.

Final Thoughts

If you love effortless dishes that wow everyone at the table, you need to try Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp! It’s the kind of recipe that slips into your regular rotation—simple enough for busy nights but so impressive you’ll serve it for company. Give it a try and discover just how restaurant-worthy homemade shrimp can be!

Print