Savor the buttery richness of garlic and Parmesan with every bite of these succulent baked shrimp! From the first forkful, you’ll taste the creamy, nutty tang of freshly grated Parmesan melding with the mellow, comforting warmth of melted butter—which makes this dish feel indulgent without any fuss. As a busy home cook, I absolutely love how this recipe slides into that sweet spot between “fancy enough for guests” and “easy enough for a weeknight dinner.” With just 15 minutes of prep, 15 minutes in the oven, and a quick 5-minute rest, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it took way longer than it actually did. And at only 320 calories per serving, you can savor each morsel without the guilt.
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp creation is truly a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re serving it as a show-stopping appetizer at a casual gathering or tucking in with a cozy pasta for dinner. It’s wonderfully beginner-friendly—no fancy knife work or complicated techniques—and even if you’re new to seafood, you’ll breeze through the deveining, coating, and baking steps like a pro. The bright squeeze of fresh lemon juice cuts through the richness, while optional red pepper flakes offer a playful spark of heat. I still remember the first time I tried this: I was juggling kids’ homework and dinner prep, and yet within half an hour we were all gathered around the table, forks in hand, ooh-ing and ahh-ing over that bubbly, golden topping. It’s more than just a recipe—it’s a little kitchen triumph you’ll want to share again and again.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN GARLIC PARMESAN BAKED SHRIMP
To get that signature flavor and effortless charm, you only need a handful of ingredients that you might already have on hand. Each component plays its part in building layers of taste, texture, and visual appeal, creating a dish that’s as beautiful as it is delicious.
- large shrimp
These plump, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the star of the show, offering tender, juicy meat that absorbs all the garlic-butter goodness.
- unsalted butter
Melted to silky perfection, butter provides a rich, velvety base that carries garlic and herbs deep into every curve of the shrimp.
- garlic cloves
Minced fresh garlic infuses a bright, aromatic punch that marries perfectly with the creamy cheese and buttery sauce.
- freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Using freshly grated Parmesan ensures a sharp, nutty flavor and a golden, bubbling crust that pre-shredded cheese just can’t match.
- Italian seasoning
A harmonious blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a Mediterranean-inspired depth of flavor.
- fresh lemon juice
A quick drizzle of lemon juice brings a zesty lift that balances the richness and brightens every bite.
- red pepper flakes (optional)
A pinch of red pepper flakes introduces a gentle warmth; adjust to your spice preference for a mild kiss or a noticeable kick.
- salt and freshly ground black pepper
Simple but essential seasonings that elevate and balance the overall profile, making each element pop.
- fresh parsley
Chopped parsley sprinkles on top for a burst of color and a hint of herby freshness.
- lemon wedges
Served on the side, these let everyone customize the acidity level, adding another layer of tangy brightness if desired.
HOW TO MAKE GARLIC PARMESAN BAKED SHRIMP
Let’s walk through how to transform these ingredients into a show-stopping dish. You’ll see how quickly the kitchen fills with aromatic garlic, bubbling cheese, and golden-baked shrimp. Follow these steps closely, and you’ll achieve a perfect balance of flavors every single time.
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensuring your oven reaches the right temperature before the shrimp go in will give you an even bake and that irresistible golden crust.
2. In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the garlic is evenly distributed, creating a luscious sauce that coats each shrimp.
3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a large baking dish. This helps them cook uniformly and allows each piece to get its share of buttery sauce. Pour the butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, gently turning them to make sure every curve is bathed in flavor.
4. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp in an even layer. This step is key for that rich, golden-brown topping—you want each shrimp to be crowned with cheese.
5. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque and the cheese transforms into a golden brown, bubbly masterpiece.
6. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This brief rest time lets the cheese set just enough so you don’t burn your taste buds and helps the flavors meld.
7. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a final squeeze of brightness.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR GARLIC PARMESAN BAKED SHRIMP
When serving these Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, presentation and pairing can elevate the experience even further. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or enjoying a quiet meal at home, there are so many ways to showcase this dish’s versatility. Think about the mood you want to set—rustic and homey, elegant and refined, or fun and laid-back. A wooden board with a scattering of fresh herbs feels cozy, while a sleek white platter gives it a more upscale vibe. You can garnish with extra lemon slices or even a swirl of herb-infused olive oil around the edge of the dish. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a sparkling Prosecco pairs beautifully with the creamy and garlicky flavors. And don’t forget the napkins—this is a hands-on delight, so having plenty of napkins or finger bowls will make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable for everyone. Now, let’s explore some specific ways to serve this crowd-pleaser:
- Over crusty bread
Pile the shrimp and extra garlic-butter sauce onto slices of warm, crusty baguette or sourdough. The bread soaks up every drop of that luscious, cheesy sauce, making each bite irresistibly hearty.
- On a bed of pasta
Toss al dente linguine or fettuccine with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of reserved Parmesan. Top with the baked shrimp for a satisfying one-pan meal that feels like a restaurant specialty.
- As a sharable appetizer
Arrange the shrimp on a large platter with toothpicks or small forks. Garnish with lemon wedges and parsley, and watch guests flock to the table for a finger-food feast.
- Alongside a fresh salad
Pair the shrimp with a bright, crisp salad—think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber ribbons, and a light vinaigrette. The freshness cuts through the richness and creates a well-balanced plate.
HOW TO STORE GARLIC PARMESAN BAKED SHRIMP
Proper storage is key to ensuring your leftover Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp stays just as delicious the next day. While this dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven, you can absolutely save time and avoid waste by planning ahead. Start by letting the shrimp cool to room temperature—this prevents condensation from turning your cheese topping soggy. Then, choose the right container: an airtight glass dish helps maintain crispness, and a resalable plastic bag can be handy for space-saving in the fridge or freezer. Label everything with the date so you know exactly how long it’s been stored. If you’re refrigerating, arrange the shrimp in a single layer to keep the cheese from clumping together. If freezing, consider flash-freezing on a baking sheet before transferring to a sealed bag to preserve shape and texture. Reheating is straightforward but should be done gently to avoid overcooking. Now, let’s look at a few specific storage methods:
- Refrigeration
Place cooled shrimp in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep them in a single layer if possible, and separate layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Freezing
Flash-freeze the baked shrimp on a parchment-lined tray for 1–2 hours, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Seal tightly and label; shrimp can last up to 1 month in the freezer.
- Gentle reheating
Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. This method preserves the shrimp’s tender texture and keeps the cheese topping from becoming rubbery.
- Microwave method
If you need a quick fix, reheat individual portions in the microwave at 50% power for 30-second intervals, just until heated. Cover with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture.
CONCLUSION
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is the perfect marriage of convenience and gourmet appeal, offering a dish that suits beginners and seasoned cooks alike. From the moment you gather your large shrimp, butter, garlic, and fresh Parmesan, you’re on your way to creating a memorable meal that feels lavish but takes mere minutes to prepare. Whether you serve it as a plated dinner with pasta, a sharable appetizer at a gathering, or spooned over crusty bread for a casual snack, each variation highlights the same core magic: succulent, garlicky shrimp under a golden, bubbly cheese crust. The recipe’s simplicity is its greatest strength—no elaborate prep or hard-to-find ingredients, just familiar items that combine to produce extraordinary flavor. And because this dish is beginner-friendly, even if you’re new to cooking seafood, you’ll achieve restaurant-worthy results right in your own kitchen. The quick 15-minute preparation, 15-minute baking time, and gentle 5-minute rest mean you can have a full meal on the table in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for easy access—this is one you’ll want to revisit often. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to address any lingering questions or troubleshooting tips (without writing out the actual FAQ here). If you decide to try this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, I’d love to hear how it went! Please leave your comments or questions, share your variations, or let me know if you need any help perfecting the technique. Your feedback helps me fine-tune these recipes and ensures you get the best experience every time you step into the kitchen. Happy cooking!
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe brings together fresh flavors with a zesty kick. Juicy shrimp, creamy cheese, and fragrant garlic create the perfect dish that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
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In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
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Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a large baking dish. Pour the butter mixture over the shrimp, ensuring they are evenly coated.
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Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp.
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Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the cheese is golden brown and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.
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Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing.
Note
- Ensure shrimp are thoroughly deveined and cleaned before cooking for the best texture.
- Using freshly grated Parmesan enhances the flavor compared to pre-packaged varieties.
- Consider pairing this dish with crusty bread or over pasta for a full meal.
- Adjust red pepper flakes for desired spice level; it’s optional if you prefer a milder taste.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days but are best enjoyed fresh.
