If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and elegant dish to serve on a weeknight or for a dinner party, Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is the perfect choice. This easy-to-prepare recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort, making it ideal for both novice and experienced home cooks. Succulent shrimp are tossed with olive oil, garlic, paprika, and red pepper flakes, then topped with finely grated Parmesan cheese and baked to perfection. The result is a savory, slightly spicy dish with a crispy golden topping and a fresh citrus finish from lemon wedges.

Shrimp is a highly versatile ingredient that pairs beautifully with a variety of spices and herbs, but garlic and Parmesan elevate it to a whole new level. The baking method enhances the flavor of the ingredients while maintaining the tender texture of the shrimp. Best of all, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes and requires minimal cleanup. It’s perfect for serving as an appetizer, main course, or even as a topping for pasta or salad. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just craving something tasty, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple preparation steps.
Flavorful: Combines garlic, Parmesan, and spices for a bold and savory profile.
Versatile: Great as a main dish, appetizer, or paired with pasta, salad, or rice.
Healthy Option: High in protein and low in carbs, perfect for various diets.
Minimal Cleanup: All ingredients are combined in one bowl and baked on a single sheet pan.

Ingredients

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Garlic, minced
Paprika
Red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper
Finely grated Parmesan cheese
Lemon wedges

Variations

Herb Twist: Add fresh or dried herbs like parsley, thyme, or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
Butter Substitute: Replace olive oil with melted butter for a richer taste.
Cheese Upgrade: Try using Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different cheesy punch.
Extra Crunch: Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the shrimp before baking for added texture.
Citrus Zest: Add lemon or lime zest to the mix for extra brightness.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2

In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

Step 3

Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl and toss until fully coated with the seasoning mixture.

Step 4

Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 5

Sprinkle finely grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp.

Step 6

Bake for 10–12 minutes or until the shrimp are opaque and the cheese is golden and crisp.

Step 7

Remove from oven and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t overbake the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
Adjust spice levels to taste by varying the amount of red pepper flakes.
Grate your own Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
Make sure the shrimp are spread in a single layer to ensure even cooking.

How to Serve

Serve over cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Pair with a crisp green salad for a lighter option.
Offer with crusty bread to soak up any flavorful juices.
Use as a protein topping for grain bowls or roasted vegetables.
Plate with extra lemon wedges for guests who enjoy more citrus.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

While shrimp can be frozen, this dish is best enjoyed fresh. If you must freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat from frozen for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5–7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the shrimp tough.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese substitute.

3. Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick from the red pepper flakes, which you can adjust to your preference.

4. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

It’s not recommended, as they can become overcooked in the oven.

5. What size shrimp should I use?

Large or extra-large shrimp work best for even cooking and bold presentation.

6. Can I add vegetables?

Yes, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions.

7. Is it gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free if you don’t add breadcrumbs.

8. How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They’ll be opaque and slightly pink, and the cheese will be golden and crispy.

9. Can I grill instead of bake?

Yes, place shrimp on skewers and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.

10. What’s the best way to devein shrimp?

Use a small paring knife or a deveining tool to make a shallow cut along the back and remove the vein.

Conclusion

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a go-to recipe for anyone seeking bold flavor, easy preparation, and versatility. Whether served as a quick dinner, a party appetizer, or part of a larger meal, this dish is bound to impress. With its delicious garlic-Parmesan coating and a hint of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both satisfying and simple. Keep it in your recipe rotation for any occasion where taste and convenience are key.