Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of shrimp, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese — and this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp captures all those flavors in a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying. Perfectly tender shrimp are coated in a rich garlic-butter sauce, sprinkled with Parmesan and breadcrumbs, and baked to golden perfection.

This dish delivers the luxurious flavors of a fine restaurant meal right from your own oven. The shrimp turn juicy and flavorful, the topping becomes crispy and cheesy, and the aroma of roasted garlic fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it’s simple yet elegant — it feels special but takes only minutes to prepare. The blend of garlic and Parmesan gives a rich, savory depth, while the butter keeps the shrimp moist and succulent. The crispy breadcrumb topping adds texture that makes every bite addictive.

It’s also a versatile recipe — you can serve it as a party appetizer, a weeknight dinner, or a romantic seafood meal. And since it’s baked instead of fried, it’s lighter and easier to clean up afterward.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a must-try because:

• It’s quick and easy — perfect for busy nights.
• It tastes restaurant-quality with minimal effort.
• The garlic-butter-Parmesan combo is absolutely irresistible.
• It’s healthy yet indulgent, offering rich flavor without being heavy.

It’s the kind of recipe that proves that simple ingredients, when combined perfectly, can create magic on a plate.

Preparation and Cooking Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal per serving
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer
• Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on optional)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for extra crispiness)
• Extra lemon wedges for serving

Cooking Directions

1. Preheat oven:
   Set oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish or sheet pan.
2. Prepare garlic butter mixture:
   In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, zest, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange shrimp:
   Place the shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp and toss gently to coat.
4. Add topping:
   In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the shrimp.
5. Bake:
   Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink, opaque, and the topping is golden brown.
6. Garnish:
   Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

1. Prep shrimp: Peel and devein shrimp; pat dry to remove excess moisture.
2. Preheat oven: Ensures even cooking and crisp topping.
3. Make garlic butter: Combine melted butter, garlic, lemon, and seasonings.
4. Coat shrimp: Toss shrimp evenly in the garlic-butter mixture.
5. Prepare topping: Mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan with a touch of oil.
6. Assemble: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in a greased dish and top with breadcrumb mixture.
7. Bake: Cook for 12–15 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish: Add parsley and serve hot.

How to Serve

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp can be served in many delicious ways:

• As an appetizer: Serve with lemon wedges and garlic aioli or cocktail sauce.
• As a main dish: Serve over buttered pasta, rice pilaf, or garlic mashed potatoes.
• With sides: Pair with roasted vegetables, steamed asparagus, or a fresh green salad.
• With bread: Enjoy with warm crusty baguette to soak up the flavorful garlic butter.

For a perfect presentation, serve the shrimp hot, sprinkled with parsley and a squeeze of lemon.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if baked too long.
• Use panko for crunch: Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crispier topping.
• Fresh garlic is key: Avoid jarred garlic for the best flavor.
• Lemon zest adds brightness: It balances the richness of the butter and cheese.
• Add spice: Use crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

Variations

1. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Scampi Style:
   Add ¼ cup white wine to the butter mixture before baking for a more luxurious flavor.
2. Cajun Garlic Shrimp:
   Replace paprika with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern twist.
3. Herb Butter Shrimp:
   Mix in fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or basil for extra aroma.
4. Cheesy Version:
   Add shredded mozzarella or provolone on top for a melty, cheesy crust.
5. Low-Carb / Keto Version:
   Skip the breadcrumbs and top with crushed pork rinds or almond flour mixed with Parmesan.

Freezing and Storage

• Refrigeration:
  Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating:
  Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes until warm. Avoid microwaving to keep the topping crispy.
• Freezing (Uncooked):
  Prepare and assemble shrimp in the baking dish without baking. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
• Freezing (Cooked):
  Store cooked shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat in oven until warmed through.

Special Equipment Needed

• Baking dish or sheet pan
• Mixing bowls
• Basting brush or spoon
• Zester or grater for lemon zest
• Oven

Conclusion

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a dish that combines simplicity and sophistication in one delicious bite. The juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter, and crispy Parmesan topping create an irresistible flavor harmony that’s hard to beat.

It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or elegant dinner-party option — quick to prepare, bursting with flavor, and beautifully versatile. Whether served over pasta, alongside vegetables, or with bread for dipping, this dish will make you look like a pro in the kitchen with minimal effort.

Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this golden, garlicky, cheesy shrimp delight again and again.