Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Irresistible Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe for Seafood Lovers

My latest culinary adventure involves a mouthwatering baked garlic parmesan shrimp that will make dinner feel like a gourmet experience.

Succulent marine creatures meet zesty cheese in this simple yet elegant dish.

Crisp edges and tender centers promise an unforgettable meal that comes together quickly.

Fresh herbs and rich parmesan create a stunning flavor profile anyone can master.

Each bite delivers a perfect balance of garlic’s warmth and seafood’s delicate sweetness.

Sharp parmesan adds a delightful crunch that complements the soft shrimp beautifully.

We guarantee this recipe will become your new favorite weeknight sensation – so let’s get cooking!

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp That’s Oven-Ready and Flavorful

  • Transform simple shrimp into a gourmet meal with minimal effort.
  • Prepare restaurant-quality seafood in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
  • Combining garlic, Parmesan, and smoked paprika creates an irresistible taste profile that elevates ordinary shrimp.
  • Kid-approved dish that's elegant enough for adults yet simple enough for picky eaters to enjoy.

What Goes Into Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Success

Main Protein:
  • Shrimp: Succulent seafood that forms the heart of the dish, best when fresh and deveined.
Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:
  • Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic flavor to the shrimp, fresh minced garlic works best.
  • Smoked Paprika: Provides a subtle smoky depth and warm color to the dish.
  • Italian Seasoning: Blend of dried herbs that brings a classic Mediterranean touch.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing overall taste.
Coating and Topping:
  • Parmesan Cheese: Adds rich, salty, and nutty flavor with a crispy texture.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: Creates a light, crispy golden topping for extra crunch.
  • Olive Oil: Helps bind the breadcrumb mixture and adds a smooth, rich undertone.
Additional Finishing Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich, smooth base for the garlic mixture, melted for easy mixing.
  • Fresh Parsley: Bright green garnish that adds fresh color and subtle herbal note.
  • Lemon: Provides a zesty, fresh citrus accent to complement the shrimp.

How to Bake Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with Golden Crunch

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking dish and give it a quick spray of cooking oil or line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prep the Ocean Treasures

Gently blot the seafood with paper towels until completely dry. Spread them out in a single layer across your prepared baking surface, ensuring they’re not crowding each other.

Step 3: Whip Up the Flavor Explosion

In a mixing bowl, create a mouthwatering sauce by combining:
  • Melted butter
  • Finely chopped garlic
  • Smoky paprika
  • Italian herb blend
  • Sea salt
  • Freshly ground black pepper

Drizzle this magical mixture over the seafood, giving everything a gentle toss to ensure complete coverage.

Step 4: Create the Crunchy Topping

In another bowl, mix together:
  • Grated Parmesan cheese
  • Panko breadcrumbs
  • A splash of olive oil

Blend until the mixture looks like delicate, crumbly snowflakes. Sprinkle this golden goodness evenly across the top of the seafood.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven. Roast for 12-15 minutes, watching for the seafood to turn a beautiful pink and opaque, with the topping transforming into a gorgeous golden-brown crust.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Pull the dish from the oven and scatter fresh chopped parsley across the top. Serve immediately with bright, zesty lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Kitchen Tips for Juicy, Flavorful Shrimp Every Time

  • Maximize Moisture: Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure crispy, golden-brown exterior and prevent soggy texture during baking.
  • Customize Crunch: Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed rice crackers for a celiac-friendly version without losing the crispy coating.
  • Temperature Precision: Use an instant-read thermometer to check shrimp doneness- they should reach 145F internally to guarantee food safety without overcooking.
  • Quick Flavor Boost: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne to the garlic butter mixture for an extra kick of heat that complements the rich parmesan topping.
  • Leftover Love: Store any remaining shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days, and reheat gently in a skillet to maintain tenderness and prevent rubbery texture.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Without Drying It Out

  • Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking, keeping them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
  • Warm shrimp at 275F for 5-7 minutes, covering the dish with foil to prevent drying out and maintain moisture.
  • Gently reheat shrimp in 30-second intervals, checking frequently to avoid overcooking and turning rubbery.
  • Throw away shrimp that has been left at room temperature for more than 2 hours or smells unusual to prevent foodborne illness.

Great Sides for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Night

  • Select a zesty sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio to complement the garlic and butter notes, cutting through the richness while enhancing the shrimp's delicate flavor.
  • Prepare a rustic Italian-style bread with garlic butter to soak up the delicious pan juices, creating a perfect accompaniment that matches the recipe's flavor profile.
  • Toss a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved parmesan to balance the rich, garlicky shrimp and add a bright, refreshing element to the meal.
  • Cook quinoa with fresh herbs like parsley and thyme, providing a nutritious and flavorful base that echoes the seasoning of the shrimp while adding texture to the plate.

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Upgrades for Bold Flavor

  • Keto-Friendly Version: Replace panko breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds to reduce carbohydrates. Use full-fat butter and increase Parmesan cheese for a low-carb alternative.
  • Dairy-Free Adaptation: Swap butter with olive oil or coconut oil. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to maintain savory flavor. Choose dairy-free breadcrumbs for coating.
  • Spicy Seafood Remix: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the garlic butter mixture. Include diced jalapeños on top for extra heat. Serve with a cool cilantro-lime dipping sauce to balance spiciness.
  • Mediterranean Style: Incorporate chopped fresh herbs like oregano and dill. Replace smoked paprika with za'atar seasoning. Add crumbled feta cheese instead of Parmesan for a Greek-inspired version.

Shrimp FAQs That’ll Save You Time

  • Is smoked paprika necessary for this recipe?

Smoked paprika adds depth and smoky flavor, but you can substitute with regular paprika if needed. The seasoning helps enhance the overall taste of the shrimp.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and thoroughly patted dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent the shrimp from getting crispy and golden.

  • How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking will make them tough and rubbery, so watch them closely during the last few minutes of baking.

  • What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Medium to large-sized shrimp (31-40 count) work perfectly. Peeled and deveined shrimp are recommended for easier preparation and eating.

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Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe


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4.5 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic parmesan shrimp elevate seafood with Mediterranean charm, melding rich flavors into a quick, elegant dish. Crisp golden edges and aromatic herbs promise restaurant-quality magic that will delight diners seeking simple yet sophisticated coastal cuisine.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 1 pound (450 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Seasoning and Flavor Enhancers:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • ¼ cup (25 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Coating and Garnish:

  • 2 tablespoons panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the culinary workspace by heating the oven to a crisp 400F (200C), creating an ideal environment for the succulent seafood. Protect the baking surface with a light coating of grease or a protective parchment layer.
  2. Delicately cleanse the shrimp, eliminating excess moisture with paper towels. Arrange the shellfish in a pristine, uncrowded formation across the prepared cooking surface.
  3. Craft a flavor-packed elixir by whisking together liquid butter, aromatic garlic, smoky paprika, herbal Italian seasoning, mineral salt, and ground pepper. Tenderly cascade this magical mixture over the waiting shrimp, ensuring each morsel receives a loving embrace.
  4. Construct a crispy crown by blending parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs with a whisper of olive oil until the texture resembles delicate sand. Generously dust this golden topping across the seasoned shrimp.
  5. Transfer the adorned shellfish into the preheated oven’s warm embrace. Allow the transformation to occur, watching for the shrimp to turn a vibrant pink and the topping to achieve a golden, appetizing hue; approximately 12-15 minutes.
  6. Extract the dish from the oven’s depths, celebrating the culinary creation. Scatter fresh parsley as a verdant garnish and present alongside bright, zesty lemon wedges, inviting diners to enhance their gastronomic experience.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are completely dry before coating to prevent excess moisture and achieve a crispy golden topping.
  • Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor intensity and avoid pre-minced jarred garlic which can taste less vibrant.
  • Select medium to large shrimp with shells removed for consistent cooking and easier eating experience.
  • Adjust baking time carefully to prevent overcooking, as shrimp become rubbery when exposed to heat too long.
  • Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour for celiac-friendly version.
  • Include extra smoked paprika for deeper smoky undertones if you enjoy richer flavor profiles.
  • Experiment with adding red pepper flakes to introduce subtle heat for spice lovers.
  • Keep lemon wedges on side to brighten dish and cut through rich butter and cheese combination.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizer, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 267
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 360mg
  • Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Cholesterol: 205mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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