There are few dishes as satisfying, flavorful, and simple as garlic parmesan baked shrimp. This recipe is a true testament to the magic that happens when a handful of high-quality ingredients come together in harmony. Imagine coming home after a long day to the aroma of garlic and butter wafting from your oven, the golden-brown crust of parmesan teasing your taste buds, and the plump, juicy shrimp waiting to be savored. It’s a dish that can turn a regular weeknight into a special occasion and is equally perfect for a casual lunch, a cozy dinner for two, or even a festive gathering with friends and family.

This dish was inspired by my love of Italian flavors and the convenience of baking seafood at home. Traditionally, shrimp can be intimidating to cook—it’s easy to overcook them, leaving them rubbery—but baking them in a flavorful mixture of butter, garlic, and parmesan ensures they stay tender, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The breadcrumb topping adds a subtle crunch, making every bite satisfying. This combination of textures and flavors makes the shrimp irresistible and guarantees that everyone at your table will ask for seconds.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is designed to be approachable and stress-free. It brings together a handful of pantry staples with fresh ingredients to create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. There’s something deeply comforting about shrimp baked in garlic, butter, and parmesan—an elegant simplicity that warms the soul and satisfies the palate.

Why This Recipe Works

What makes this garlic parmesan baked shrimp stand out is its simplicity paired with intense flavor. Shrimp naturally have a delicate sweetness, and when combined with butter and garlic, the result is rich but never overpowering. The parmesan cheese adds saltiness and umami, which perfectly complements the mild seafood flavor, while the breadcrumbs provide a subtle crunch and golden-brown texture. This balance of flavors and textures is what makes this recipe so addictive.

Another reason this dish is a favorite is its versatility. You can serve it as an appetizer, a main course, or even a topping for salads, pastas, or grain bowls. The lemon wedges add brightness, cutting through the richness of the butter and cheese while highlighting the natural sweetness of the shrimp. This adaptability makes it a reliable recipe to keep in your repertoire, whether you’re planning a quick dinner or an elegant meal for guests.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses ingredients that are simple yet flavorful. Most of them are likely already in your pantry or fridge:

• 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• ¾ cup (75 g) freshly grated parmesan cheese
• ½ cup (30 g) breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor: butter and olive oil create a rich base, garlic provides aromatic depth, parmesan adds umami, and herbs and spices round out the dish. The breadcrumb topping is optional but recommended for texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep the Shrimp

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the shrimp in a single layer. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step ensures that the shrimp bake evenly and the topping adheres properly. Overly wet shrimp can steam instead of bake, which prevents the parmesan and breadcrumb mixture from achieving a golden crust.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Whisk until smooth. This mixture will coat the shrimp and infuse them with rich flavor as they bake. For an extra punch of flavor, you can let the garlic sit in the melted butter for a few minutes to release its aroma before combining it with the olive oil and spices.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Arrange the shrimp evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the garlic butter mixture over the shrimp, tossing gently to ensure every piece is coated. Make sure each shrimp has some garlic bits clinging to it—this will caramelize slightly in the oven, giving a beautiful golden hue and deep flavor.

Step 4: Add the Parmesan and Breadcrumb Topping

In a small bowl, combine the grated parmesan and breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the shrimp, pressing lightly to help it stick. This layer will bake into a crispy, golden topping that contrasts perfectly with the tender shrimp beneath. You can also mix in a pinch of extra Italian seasoning for added flavor.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. If you like a slightly crispier topping, switch the oven to broil for 1–2 minutes at the end. Watch closely to prevent burning. The result should be shrimp that are perfectly tender, topped with a lightly golden, flavorful crust.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges. The acidity of the lemon brightens the richness of the butter and parmesan, creating a balanced, flavorful bite.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic parmesan baked shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:

• Pasta: Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, pasta makes the shrimp feel like a full Italian feast.
• Rice or Quinoa: These grains absorb the flavorful juices from the shrimp, turning every bite into a satisfying experience.
• Roasted Vegetables: Asparagus, zucchini, broccoli, or bell peppers complement the shrimp with color, texture, and freshness.
• Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping into the garlic butter sauce and parmesan topping.

You can even turn this into a sheet-pan dinner by roasting vegetables alongside the shrimp, making cleanup easier and dinner faster.

Tips for Perfect Baked Shrimp

1. Choose Large Shrimp: Large or extra-large shrimp remain tender when baked. Smaller shrimp can overcook quickly.
2. Dry Shrimp Thoroughly: Patting the shrimp dry ensures the butter, garlic, and parmesan stick better and prevents steaming.
3. Watch the Broil: If broiling for a golden top, stay nearby. Parmesan can burn quickly.
4. Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents, which can prevent proper browning. Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully.
5. Avoid Overcrowding: Arrange shrimp in a single layer to allow even cooking and prevent sogginess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen shrimp work well as long as they are fully thawed and patted dry before baking. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water for 10–15 minutes. Removing excess moisture is essential for the garlic parmesan topping to stick and for the shrimp to bake properly. Frozen shrimp can be just as flavorful as fresh shrimp, making this recipe convenient for last-minute meals.

How can I tell when the shrimp are done?

Properly cooked shrimp are pink with opaque flesh and curl into a gentle “C” shape. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery. For large shrimp baked at 400°F (200°C), 12–15 minutes is typically sufficient. Smaller shrimp may require slightly less time. Keep a close eye during broiling for the golden topping.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prep most of the ingredients ahead of time. Clean and devein the shrimp, prepare the garlic butter mixture, and mix the parmesan and breadcrumbs. Store separately in the fridge and assemble just before baking. This method reduces cooking day stress while preserving texture and flavor.

Are there alternatives to breadcrumbs?

Yes! You can use panko, crushed crackers, or finely ground nuts for a different texture. Panko creates a lighter, crunchier crust, while crushed crackers add flavor. For a lower-carb option, omit the breadcrumbs and increase the parmesan and herbs for a flavorful topping.

Can I add extra seasoning for more flavor?

Absolutely! Crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a splash of lemon juice before baking can elevate the flavor even further. Herbs like thyme or basil also pair wonderfully with garlic and parmesan.

Final Thoughts

Garlic parmesan baked shrimp is a dish that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat. It brings together the natural sweetness of shrimp, the richness of butter, the aromatic power of garlic, and the umami of parmesan into one irresistible combination. The golden breadcrumb topping adds texture and a touch of elegance, while fresh parsley and lemon brighten the dish and complete the flavor profile.

This recipe proves that great food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a dish that feels luxurious yet approachable. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual lunches, or special occasions, offering a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing option.

One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Serve it with pasta, rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad—the garlic parmesan baked shrimp always shines. It also reheats well, making it a practical choice for meal prep or leftovers, though fresh from the oven is always best.

Cooking shrimp at home can feel intimidating, but this baked approach removes most of the guesswork. The shrimp cook evenly in the oven, while the garlic and parmesan topping adds depth and texture, producing a professional-quality dish with minimal effort. Once you try this recipe, it’s likely to become a favorite, appearing on your table again and again for its delicious, satisfying, and comforting qualities.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or simply looking for a new family favorite, this garlic parmesan baked shrimp recipe delivers flavor, simplicity, and elegance in every bite. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a small culinary celebration that transforms ordinary evenings into something memorable.

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