Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

This baked garlic Parmesan shrimp transforms humble seafood into a restaurant-worthy dish in just minutes. The buttery garlic sauce mingles with the nutty Parmesan to create a luxurious coating that turns perfectly pink shrimp into a memorable meal any night of the week.

I first made this recipe when unexpected guests showed up at dinnertime, and I had just 30 minutes to pull together something special. The aroma of garlic and butter filled my kitchen as they arrived, and they still talk about that impromptu dinner party years later.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, look for firm translucent shrimp with no ammonia smell
• Garlic: Freshly minced, provides essential aromatic foundation for this dish
• Unsalted butter: Creates the rich silky base for our sauce, allows you to control saltiness
• Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated, delivers nutty complexity and crisp texture
• Italian seasoning: Provides a convenient blend of complementary herbs
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and beautiful color
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing all flavors
• Fresh parsley: Brightens the final dish with color and freshness
• Lemon wedges: Provide crucial acidity that balances the richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set your oven to 350°F while you prepare other ingredients. This moderate temperature ensures the shrimp cook gently without becoming tough. Lightly grease your baking dish with a touch of olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Arrange Shrimp:

Place your shrimp in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Avoid overlapping to ensure even cooking and proper sauce distribution. The spacing allows each shrimp to roast properly rather than steam.

Create Flavor Base:

Combine melted butter with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika in a small bowl. Whisk thoroughly until well incorporated. The warm butter helps bloom the spices, releasing their essential oils and flavors.

Coat The Shrimp:

Pour your aromatic butter mixture evenly over the arranged shrimp, ensuring each piece receives a generous coating. Use a spoon to redirect any pooling sauce over drier areas for consistent coverage.

Add Cheesy Layer:

Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the entire dish. The cheese will melt and form a savory crust that locks in moisture while adding incredible flavor and texture to each bite.

Season And Bake:

Add salt and pepper according to your taste preferences, then bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch carefully as shrimp cook quickly. They're done when they turn opaque pink and just firm to the touch but still tender.

Finish And Garnish:

Remove from oven and immediately sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Arrange lemon wedges around the dish or on a separate plate for guests to squeeze over their portions as desired.

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The first time I served this dish at a family gathering, my seafood-averse nephew tried it on a dare and ended up asking for seconds. The combination of familiar Italian flavors with the subtle sweetness of shrimp converted him instantly. Now he requests this dish whenever he visits, a victory I treasure as much as the recipe itself.

Storage Tips

Properly stored leftovers will keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, though the texture is best when freshly made. Store in an airtight container and reheat gently in the microwave at 50% power or in a skillet over low heat. Add a small splash of water when reheating to restore moisture. I recommend consuming leftovers within 24 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

Easy Variations

This versatile recipe welcomes creative adaptations. Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or swap the Italian seasoning for Cajun seasoning for a southern twist. For a Mediterranean version, add halved cherry tomatoes and olives to the baking dish before cooking. You can also make this dairy-free by using olive oil instead of butter and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, though the flavor profile will change significantly.

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Serving Suggestions

This shrimp shines as the centerpiece of multiple meal presentations. Serve over angel hair pasta tossed with a bit of olive oil and fresh herbs for an elegant dinner. For a lighter option, pair with roasted asparagus and a simple green salad. It also works beautifully alongside risotto or as part of a seafood feast with other quick-cooking options like mussels or scallops. For entertaining, consider serving it as an appetizer with crusty bread for dipping into the incredible sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before preparing the dish to avoid excess moisture.

→ What type of Parmesan cheese should I use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended for its texture and flavor, but pre-grated cheese can work in a pinch.

→ Can I add other spices or herbs?

Absolutely! You can customize with red pepper flakes for spice or herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique twist.

→ How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Monitor the shrimp closely as they bake. Remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and firm, typically within 12-15 minutes.

→ Can I substitute butter with olive oil?

Yes, olive oil can be used as a substitute for butter, though it will result in a slightly different flavor profile.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

This dish goes well with crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.