The Perfect Shrimp Dish for Any Occasion
Picture this: juicy, tender shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese, and baked to perfection. The aroma of garlic and cheese fills your kitchen as the shrimp turn golden and crispy. If this sounds like a dish you’d love, then Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a must-try!
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner, an elegant appetizer, or a special seafood treat, this recipe has you covered.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know about making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, from ingredients to step-by-step instructions, expert tips, and serving ideas!
What Makes Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp So Special?
This dish is all about bold flavors and effortless cooking. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon creates a balanced taste that’s rich yet refreshing. Plus, baking the shrimp ensures a tender, juicy texture without the hassle of frying.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
✔️ Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
✔️ Packed with bold garlic and Parmesan flavors
✔️ A healthier alternative to fried shrimp
✔️ Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or side
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, you’ll need a few simple ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1 pound |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | ¼ cup |
| Chopped fresh parsley | 2 tablespoons |
| Lemon zest | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
Optional Garnish:
- Lemon wedges
- Additional chopped parsley
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
1. Preheat Your Oven
- Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure an even bake.
2. Prepare the Shrimp
- If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, clean them properly.
- Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the seasoning stick.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Stir well to create a flavorful coating.
4. Coat the Shrimp
- Toss the shrimp in the garlic Parmesan mixture until they’re evenly coated.
5. Arrange and Bake
- Spread the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
6. Serve and Enjoy
- Garnish with lemon wedges and extra parsley.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
✔️ Use fresh shrimp – Fresh shrimp have a firmer texture and better flavor than frozen.
✔️ Don’t overcook – Shrimp cook quickly and can turn rubbery if left too long.
✔️ Add a spicy kick – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds some heat!
✔️ Try broiling – For a crispy top, broil for the last 2 minutes of baking.
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
Want to customize your dish? Here are some great options:
| Ingredient | Substitutions |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | Melted butter or avocado oil |
| Parmesan cheese | Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for dairy-free) |
| Lemon zest | Lime zest or lemon juice |
| Parsley | Basil or cilantro |
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients!
✔️ High in protein – Great for muscle growth and repair
✔️ Low in calories – Perfect for weight-conscious diets
✔️ Rich in omega-3 fatty acids – Supports heart health
✔️ Good source of antioxidants – Helps reduce inflammation
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Pair your shrimp with these tasty sides:
🥗 Garlic Butter Rice – A simple, buttery rice dish to complement the shrimp.
🥦 Steamed Vegetables – A healthy, colorful addition to your plate.
🥖 Crusty Bread – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful garlic butter.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes.
Nutritional Information Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~220 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 10g |
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw them completely before cooking for the best texture.
2. How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Don’t overcook! Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the shrimp and seasoning, then bake when ready to serve.
4. What’s the best way to devein shrimp?
Use a small knife to make a slit along the back and remove the vein.
5. Can I add other seasonings?
Absolutely! Paprika, cayenne pepper, or Italian seasoning work well.
6. What other cheese can I use instead of Parmesan?
Try pecorino, asiago, or even a sprinkle of mozzarella.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action
Now that you have everything you need to make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, it’s time to head to the kitchen and give it a try! This easy, flavorful dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.