You know those nights when you want something fancy-tasting but don’t want to put in fancy effort? That’s exactly why my Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp has become my go-to weeknight hero. I discovered this gem during a desperate “what’s in my fridge?” moment that turned into one of those happy accidents you keep making forever.
The magic happens when plump shrimp meet crispy parmesan and that garlicky goodness in just 20 minutes flat. My husband still thinks I’m joking when I pull this out of the oven – it smells like something from a fancy seafood restaurant but takes less time than ordering takeout. The best part? That golden cheese crust hiding underneath each shrimp – pure bliss in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
This dish is my secret weapon for so many reasons, and I know you’ll be obsessed too:
- 20-minute magic: From fridge to table faster than pizza delivery (and way tastier!)
- That crispy-chewy parmesan crust: Every bite has that perfect salty crunch
- No fancy skills needed: If you can stir and turn on an oven, you’ve got this
- Total crowd-pleaser: Works for date nights, family dinners, and even last-minute guests
- Leftovers? What leftovers? Trust me, the plate will be licked clean every time
Ingredients for Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Here’s the beautiful part – you probably have most of this in your kitchen right now! Just grab:
- 1 lb large shrimp – peeled and deveined (trust me, do this first unless you love shrimp surgery)
- 2 tbsp olive oil – the good stuff that makes everything better
- 3 cloves garlic – minced (or 4 if you’re feeling bold – I always do)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan – freshly grated melts so much better than the dusty stuff
- 1/4 tsp each salt & black pepper – the simple flavor boosters
- 1/4 tsp paprika – for that sneaky little smoky depth
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley – chopped (save this for the grand finale!)
See? Nothing weird or fancy – just ingredients that work magic together. Now let’s make some shrimp dreams come true!
How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Alright, let’s get cooking! This is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you think. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have restaurant-quality shrimp in no time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first – crank that oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab a big bowl and toss in your shrimp, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Give it all a good mix until every shrimp is happily coated. This takes maybe 2 minutes – tops!
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
Now, arrange your seasoned shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Don’t crowd them! They need personal space to get that perfect crisp. Then comes the best part – shower them with that glorious grated parmesan. I like to press it gently onto each shrimp so it sticks better while baking.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Pop those beauties in the oven for 8-10 minutes. Watch closely after 8 minutes – you’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the cheese gets that irresistible golden brown color. Pro tip: If your shrimp are extra large, give them another minute, but don’t overdo it – nobody likes rubbery shrimp!
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
The grand finale! Sprinkle that fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side – a quick squeeze of lemon takes this dish from great to “oh my god, give me more!” Enjoy right away while it’s hot and crispy!
Tips for the Best Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
After making this recipe more times than I can count, here are my can’t-live-without tips for shrimp perfection:
- Fresh is best: Use fresh shrimp if you can – they bake up juicier and sweeter than frozen (but thaw frozen ones completely if that’s what you’ve got)
- Size matters: Go for large (26/30 count) shrimp – anything smaller might overcook before the cheese gets golden
- Garlic hack: If you’re short on time, use a garlic press instead of mincing – same great flavor in half the time
- Don’t peek! Resist opening the oven door – that blast of cold air slows down the crisping
- Taste test: Try one shrimp at 8 minutes – they should be pink with a slight give, not rubbery
Follow these, and you’ll have shrimp so good, you’ll be making them weekly like I do!
Variations for Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily you can mix it up! Here are some delicious twists I’ve tried (and loved):
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic – just enough to make your lips tingle
- Lemon lover: Toss in some lemon zest with the shrimp before baking – brightens everything up beautifully
- Herb garden: Swap parsley for fresh basil or thyme if you’re feeling fancy
- Cheese swap: Try pecorino romano instead of parmesan for a sharper, saltier bite
- Breadcrumb bonus: Mix 2 tbsp panko with the parmesan for extra crunch
The best part? You can try a different version every time and never get bored!
Serving Suggestions for Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Oh, the possibilities! This shrimp shines as the star but plays well with others too. My favorite way? Piled high on a bed of lemony arugula salad – the peppery greens balance that rich parmesan perfectly. For heartier appetites, toss them with al dente linguine and a splash of the pasta water to make a quick garlicky sauce. Don’t forget the crusty bread – you’ll want something to sop up every last cheesy, garlicky bit from the pan!
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Okay, let’s be real – leftovers are unlikely with this dish, but just in case you miraculously have some (or doubled the batch like I often do), here’s how to keep them tasty. Store cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, skip the microwave – it turns them rubbery! Instead, pop them under the broiler for just 1-2 minutes until warm. The cheese will crisp back up beautifully. Pro tip: A tiny drizzle of fresh olive oil before reheating keeps everything moist and delicious!
Nutritional Information for Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Here’s the skinny on this dish (though let’s be honest – we’re here for flavor, not math!). Per serving, you’re looking at about 200 calories packed with 25g protein. Remember, these numbers are estimates – your actual counts will dance a bit depending on shrimp size and cheese generosity!
FAQ About Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
I get asked about this recipe all the time, so let’s tackle those burning questions:
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely in the fridge overnight first (or use the cold water method if you’re impatient like me). Pat them dry really well – soggy shrimp won’t get that perfect crust.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Look for that gorgeous pink color and a slight curl – they should feel springy but not rubbery when pressed. The cheese should be golden brown.
Can I make this ahead?
Sort of! You can prep the shrimp with seasonings up to 2 hours before, but wait to add the cheese until right before baking.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic?
No sweat! Use 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder per clove – just mix it right in with the oil.
Now quit reading and start baking! Tag me when you make it – I live for your shrimp success stories!
Print
20-Minute Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp – Irresistible Crust Guaranteed
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 2-3 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious dish featuring shrimp baked with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix shrimp, olive oil, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Place shrimp on a baking sheet.
- Sprinkle parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes or until shrimp are cooked.
- Garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best results.
- Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve with lemon wedges for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
