Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Introduction

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both elegant and simple to prepare, this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp might just become your new go-to. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a dish that tastes like something straight out of a restaurant kitchen. The combination of butter, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a rich and savory coating that complements the natural sweetness of shrimp perfectly. Best of all, it bakes in under 15 minutes, making it a winning recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining.

My recipe story

This recipe was inspired by my love for simple seafood dinners that feel indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. I first tried a version of garlic shrimp at a small coastal restaurant during a summer trip, where the aroma of sizzling garlic filled the air before the plate even reached the table. I wanted to recreate that same magic at home, but with a touch of Parmesan crispiness that adds texture and depth. After a few test runs, I landed on this baked version that’s not only delicious but also less messy than pan-searing. It quickly became a household favorite and one of the dishes I proudly serve to guests.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an important role in building the bold yet balanced flavor profile. Shrimp, of course, is the star of the show. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp since they hold up well during baking and provide a juicy bite. They should be peeled and deveined for convenience, though leaving the tails on adds an elegant touch if you’re serving this at a dinner party.

Butter forms the base of the coating, infusing richness while keeping the shrimp moist as they bake. Garlic, minced finely, adds that signature aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with seafood. Parmesan cheese brings saltiness and crispiness when it melts, while breadcrumbs help form a golden crust. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or lemon juice at the end brightens everything up, balancing the richness of the dish.

What makes this ingredient list so approachable is that it uses pantry staples most home cooks already have. Even if you’re new to cooking seafood, you won’t feel intimidated gathering the components to make this dish shine.

Equipment you’ll need

• Baking sheet or shallow baking dish
• Mixing bowl
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Garlic press or mincer (optional)
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Spatula or spoon for mixing

Step-by-step directions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. Drying them helps the butter and Parmesan mixture cling better. If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp, but leave the tails on if you want a more elegant presentation. This step ensures they cook evenly without excess water diluting the flavors.
2. Make the butter mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir until the garlic is evenly distributed. This buttery mixture will serve as both a marinade and a flavor enhancer, coating the shrimp beautifully while baking.
3. Coat the shrimp: Place the shrimp in the bowl with the butter mixture and toss gently until each piece is well coated. Arrange them in a single layer on a prepared baking sheet or shallow dish. Overlapping the shrimp can cause uneven cooking, so spreading them out ensures a consistent texture.
4. Add the topping: In another small bowl, mix Parmesan cheese with breadcrumbs and a touch of paprika or Italian seasoning if desired. Sprinkle this mixture generously over the shrimp. The combination will create a crisp, golden crust once baked, complementing the tender shrimp underneath.
5. Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the shrimp for 8–10 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overbaking, as shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery. For an extra golden finish, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes.
6. Garnish and serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and immediately sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. These finishing touches brighten the dish and balance the richness of the butter and Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the irresistible aroma as it fills your kitchen.

Variations & substitutions

This recipe is highly versatile, making it easy to customize based on preferences or pantry availability. Instead of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. You can also swap regular breadcrumbs with panko for a lighter, crunchier texture. If you’re avoiding dairy, replace the butter with olive oil and use nutritional yeast in place of cheese. For a spicier kick, add a dash of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture. You could even make a citrusy version by adding orange zest alongside the lemon for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless, ensuring this dish never feels repetitive.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Freezing is not ideal for this recipe, as the Parmesan coating may lose its texture upon thawing, but you can freeze raw, prepped shrimp in the butter mixture for up to 2 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge, add the topping, and bake when ready. For make-ahead convenience, you can prepare the butter mixture and topping in advance, then assemble everything just before baking.

Serving ideas & pairings

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes. Serve it over a bed of angel hair pasta tossed in olive oil for a comforting meal. It also works wonderfully with steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a light Caesar salad for a balanced plate. If you’re serving this as an appetizer, arrange the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and a garlic aioli for dipping. For wine pairings, opt for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, which complements the garlic and butter without overpowering the shrimp’s delicate flavor. You can even tuck these shrimp into tacos with shredded cabbage and lime crema for a fun twist.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and drained before using to avoid excess water in the baking dish.

What type of shrimp is best?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best since they bake evenly and provide a meaty bite.

Can I prepare this recipe without breadcrumbs?
Yes, simply omit them or use crushed nuts like almonds or pecans for a different texture.

How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when done. Avoid overcooking, as they become rubbery quickly.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to use a larger baking sheet so the shrimp don’t overlap.

Final thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create a dish that feels truly special. Whether you’re serving it as a quick weeknight dinner, a festive party appetizer, or a main dish for a special occasion, it always delivers on flavor and presentation. The golden Parmesan crust, the aroma of garlic, and the juicy bite of shrimp combine to create a dish that is both comforting and elegant. Once you try it, you’ll find yourself coming back to it again and again—it’s the kind of recipe that effortlessly earns a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.

Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

---

• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Juicy shrimp baked with garlic, butter, and Parmesan for a crispy, savory finish. Perfect as a quick main dish or elegant appetizer.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 tbsp butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/4 tsp black pepper

• 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

• 1/2 lemon, juiced

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.

2. Pat shrimp dry, then place in a bowl with melted butter, garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.

3. Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish.

4. Mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and paprika, then sprinkle evenly over shrimp.

5. Bake 8–10 minutes until shrimp are pink and opaque. For extra crispiness, broil for 1–2 minutes.

6. Garnish with parsley and lemon juice before serving.

Notes

For a crunchier topping, use panko breadcrumbs. Best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Serve with pasta, rice, or salad.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American