When I think of weeknight dinners, Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp always comes to mind. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is incredibly easy to whip up.
Whether you’re coming home from a long day or just want to impress someone special, this recipe is a lifesaver.
With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this delicious seafood delight!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a game-changer for busy nights.
It’s quick, taking just 25 minutes from start to finish, and the flavors are out of this world.
The buttery garlic sauce combined with the rich Parmesan creates a taste explosion that’s hard to resist.
Plus, it’s a low-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction.
You’ll find yourself making this dish again and again!
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Creating the perfect Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp starts with the right ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
Large shrimp: Fresh or frozen, peeled and deveined shrimp are the stars of this dish. They soak up the flavors beautifully.
Unsalted butter: This adds richness and helps the garlic and spices meld together. You can use olive oil for a lighter option.
Garlic: Minced garlic is essential for that aromatic punch. Fresh garlic is best, but jarred can work in a pinch.
Lemon juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
Paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness and a pop of color. Feel free to use smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the other flavors. Adjust to your taste.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan gives a savory, cheesy crust that’s hard to resist. Freshly grated is ideal, but pre-grated works too.
Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a bit of color to the finished dish.
Lemon wedges: For serving, these add a zesty kick that complements the shrimp perfectly.
For those looking to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture.
If you want to switch things up, scallops or chicken can be substituted for shrimp.
You’ll find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Creating Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a straightforward process that yields delicious results.
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C).
This step is crucial because it ensures that the shrimp cook evenly and quickly.
A hot oven helps to lock in the flavors and gives the shrimp that perfect, tender texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Stir until everything is well mixed.
The butter acts as a base, while the garlic and spices create a flavorful sauce that will coat the shrimp beautifully.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl.
Toss them gently in the garlic butter mixture until they are evenly coated.
This step is key for maximum flavor, so make sure every shrimp gets a good soak in that buttery goodness!
Step 4: Arrange in Baking Dish
Transfer the coated shrimp to a baking dish, spreading them out in a single layer.
This is important for even cooking.
If the shrimp are piled on top of each other, they won’t cook properly, and you’ll miss out on that delicious crispy texture.
Step 5: Add Parmesan Cheese
Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp.
This cheesy layer not only adds flavor but also creates a delightful crust as it bakes.
For the best results, use freshly grated cheese, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.
Step 6: Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes.
You’ll know the shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque.
Keep an eye on them; overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, and nobody wants that!
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, garnish your Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp with chopped parsley.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zesty kick.
This dish not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible, making it perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Tips for Success
Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t skip the preheating step; it’s essential for even cooking.
For a crispy topping, broil the shrimp for the last minute of baking.
Adjust seasoning to your taste; feel free to experiment!
Let the shrimp rest for a minute before serving to enhance the flavors.
Equipment Needed
Baking dish: A glass or ceramic dish works well, but a metal one can give you a crispier finish.
Mixing bowl: Any large bowl will do for combining the garlic butter mixture.
Measuring spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
Spatula or tongs: Great for tossing the shrimp and transferring them to the baking dish.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a fiery kick.
Herb-Infused Version: Mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for an aromatic twist.
Cheesy Spinach Addition: Stir in some fresh spinach before baking for a nutritious boost and vibrant color.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free and serve with gluten-free sides.
Low-Carb Variation: Pair with zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta for a low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a fresh salad: A light arugula or mixed greens salad complements the shrimp beautifully.
Serve with crusty bread: Perfect for soaking up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
Enjoy with a crisp white wine: A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the flavors.
Garnish with lemon slices: Adds a pop of color and extra zest to your presentation.
FAQs about Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Frozen shrimp can be just as delicious as fresh when prepared correctly.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
The shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them, as overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter mixture and coat the shrimp in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake!
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, crusty bread, or even over pasta. A crisp white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Definitely! Scallops or chicken work well as alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure everything is cooked through.
Final Thoughts
Cooking Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating moments.
The aroma of garlic and butter wafting through your kitchen can transport you back to family gatherings or cozy dinners with friends.
This dish is a celebration of flavors that brings everyone together, whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special occasion.
With its simplicity and deliciousness, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and again.
So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and let this delightful shrimp dish become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
