Name: Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Salt and pepper, to taste; Lemon wedges; Additional chopped parsley

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Introduction

There’s nothing quite like a quick and delicious recipe that brings a little bit of indulgence to your weeknight dinners. The Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp has become a favorite in my home, not just because it’s easy to make but because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 15 minutes. The combination of zesty garlic, nutty Parmesan, and succulent shrimp creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple. My family loves it paired with a light salad or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices. If you’re looking for a dish that’s healthy, flavorful, and incredibly easy to prepare, this is it!

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this recipe, and here’s why you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again:

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re short on time.
Minimal Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, this recipe is both accessible and budget-friendly.
Healthy and Nutritious: Shrimp is high in protein and low in calories, making it a healthy option for a satisfying meal.
Versatile: Serve it as an appetizer, over pasta, alongside rice, or with a simple salad—it’s incredibly adaptable.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and lemon zest brings a vibrant, bold taste that’s irresistible.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

Lemon wedges
Additional chopped parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated with the flavorful mixture.

Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re not crowded to ensure even cooking and the perfect texture.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through. Keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking, as shrimp can quickly become rubbery.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven. Garnish with additional chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh burst of flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 180 calories

Macronutrients per serving (approximate):

Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and any additional garnishes or sides.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
Total Time: 17-20 minutes

How to Serve

The beauty of Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp lies in its versatility. Here are a few serving ideas:

As an Appetizer: Serve the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for a crowd-pleasing starter.
Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta and a drizzle of olive oil for a quick seafood pasta.
Alongside Rice: Pair it with fluffy white rice or herbed quinoa for a satisfying main course.
With a Salad: Serve it on a bed of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a fresh and healthy meal.
In Tacos: Use the shrimp as a filling for soft tacos, along with avocado, salsa, and sour cream.

Additional Tips

Use Fresh Shrimp When Possible: Fresh shrimp delivers the best flavor, but if you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: To achieve that perfect roasted texture, ensure the shrimp are spread out in a single layer on the baking sheet.
Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice or extra lemon zest for a tangier flavor.
Double the Recipe: This dish is so popular, you might want to make extra. It’s perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully.
Serve with Crusty Bread: Don’t let the flavorful juices go to waste—serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak them up!

FAQ Section

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but reduce the baking time to about 5-7 minutes since pre-cooked shrimp only need to be reheated.

2. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative.

3. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns opaque and forms a “C” shape. Avoid overcooking, as it can become tough and rubbery.

4. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before seasoning.

5. What size shrimp should I use?

Large shrimp (21-25 count per pound) work best for this recipe, but medium-sized shrimp will also work.

6. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp with the seasoning ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Bake just before serving for the best results.

7. What can I substitute for parsley?

Cilantro or fresh basil can be used as a substitute if you don’t have parsley on hand.

8. Can I use this recipe with other seafood?

Yes, scallops or chunks of white fish like cod can be prepared using the same method.

9. How do I reheat leftovers?

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

10. Can I make this spicier?

Yes! Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicier version.

Conclusion

The Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a must-try recipe that’s guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation. It’s quick, healthy, and packed with bold flavors that make it feel special, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dish for entertaining guests. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this recipe is truly a keeper.

If you love this recipe, be sure to bookmark it, share it with friends, and keep coming back for more amazing ideas to elevate your cooking. Thank you for joining me in the kitchen—happy cooking!