Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp

Discover a new favorite with these Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp. Perfectly seasoned and baked to golden perfection, these shrimp offer a satisfying crunch and delightful flavor without the need for frying. Ideal as an appetizer or a main dish addition, this recipe is sure to impress with its easy preparation and crispy results.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray

Directions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
3. Prepare the Shrimp: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. Dip each shrimp into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.
4. Bake the Shrimp: Arrange the breaded shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
5. Cook: Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are golden brown and crispy. For extra crispiness, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes if desired.
6. Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce or as part of a main dish.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings (6 shrimp per serving)

Variations

• Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Herb Variation: Substitute dried oregano and thyme with other herbs like parsley or basil for a different flavor profile.
• Parmesan Alternatives: Use Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan for a unique twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through. For the best crispiness, reheat in the oven rather than the microwave.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

• Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before using.

1. Can I make these shrimp ahead of time?

• It’s best to bake them fresh for the best texture, but you can prepare the breaded shrimp and refrigerate them before baking.

1. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

• Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier texture, but regular breadcrumbs can be used if necessary.

1. Can I use a different cheese?

• Yes, other hard cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano work well too.

1. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free.

1. Can I use this recipe for other types of seafood?

• Absolutely, this breading works well for fish fillets, scallops, or even chicken tenders.

1. What dipping sauces pair well with these shrimp?

• Try marinara, cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or a lemon-herb dipping sauce.

1. Can I bake the shrimp without breading?

• Yes, you can season the shrimp and bake them for a lighter option, but they won’t be as crispy.

1. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?

• Feel free to add more or less of any seasoning according to your preference.

1. Can I freeze the breaded shrimp before baking?
   • Yes, freeze the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

These Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp offer a delightful combination of crunch and flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to elegant dinners, this recipe delivers a satisfying and tasty treat that everyone will love. Enjoy these crispy shrimp hot from the oven for the best experience!

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