If you are craving a dish that bursts with rich flavor and delicate textures, this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine succulent shrimp coated in a heavenly blend of sharp Parmesan cheese, fragrant garlic, and a hint of smoky paprika, all baked to perfection with a buttery kiss and a bright squeeze of fresh lemon. This recipe brings together simple, fresh ingredients in a way that feels both indulgent enough for a special occasion yet easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Whether served over rice or with crusty bread, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm, delicious hug on a plate. Get ready to fall in love with shrimp all over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe lies in a handful of straightforward but essential ingredients. Each item plays a key role, whether it’s providing bright acidity, creamy texture, or that signature cheesy punch.
- Raw shrimp (2 pounds, 26/30 count): Choose peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on for the best texture and easy handling during cooking.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Adds a savory, nutty richness that melts beautifully on the shrimp.
- Lemon (half): Both zest and juice lend a fresh, citrusy brightness that balances the richness perfectly.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): Brings a touch of herbal freshness and a pop of vibrant green color.
- Paprika (2 teaspoons): Offers gentle smoky warmth that deepens the overall flavor profile.
- Garlic powder (3/4 teaspoon): Packs a subtle garlic kick without overpowering the shrimp.
- Salted butter (4 tablespoons, melted): Provides luscious fat that helps everything stick and bakes the shrimp with a golden finish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and greasing a rimmed baking sheet lightly with cooking spray. This ensures your shrimp won’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. This small prep step is key to getting that perfect golden crust on the shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp are frozen, thaw them under cold running water. Take care to remove any inner and outer veins completely for a clean, fresh flavor. This simple but crucial step ensures your shrimp taste their absolute best, free of any grit or bitterness.
Step 3: Mix the Parmesan Coating
On a dinner plate, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese with garlic powder and paprika. Then, zest the lemon right into this mixture to infuse it with bright citrus oils and cut through the richness. Finely chopped parsley adds a final fresh note to the blend. This cheesy, flavorful coating is what makes this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe stand out.
Step 4: Melt the Butter and Set Up Your Assembly Line
Melt the butter in a microwave-safe container until just liquid. Arranging your ingredients — shrimp, melted butter, cheese mixture, and baking sheet — in a line makes the process smooth and fun. Dunking the shrimp in butter before coating ensures each piece gets an even, tasty layer.
Step 5: Coat and Arrange the Shrimp
Dunk each shrimp in the melted butter, then roll it in the Parmesan and seasoning mixture to coat thoroughly. Lay them out in a single layer on your prepared sheet pan. This method guarantees every bite is bursting with that irresistible garlic and cheese crust.
Step 6: Bake the Shrimp
Pop the shrimp into the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. Timing is important here — you want the shrimp to be cooked through but still tender and juicy, not tough or rubbery.
Step 7: Finish with Fresh Lemon Juice
Once baked, give your shrimp a generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This final step adds a lively zing that perfectly balances the buttery, cheesy richness, tying all the flavors together beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds that picture-perfect pop of green and a mild herbal freshness that complements the rich shrimp beautifully. For an added touch, a light dusting of extra Parmesan just before serving will enhance the flavor and presentation.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe shines when paired with simple yet satisfying sides. Serve it over steamed rice for a gluten-free option that soaks up all the garlicky, buttery goodness. Alternatively, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or special meal, arrange the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and fresh herbs for easy sharing. You can also toss the shrimp in a warm pasta or salad to make a more substantial dish that still highlights those classic flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keeping them chilled promptly helps maintain their flavor and texture, making them perfect for quick reheats or repurposing in other dishes.
Freezing
If you want to save the shrimp for longer, freeze them in a sealed bag or container with minimal air to prevent freezer burn. While freezing can slightly affect texture, the bold flavors of this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe remain intact.
Reheating
Gently reheat your shrimp in a skillet over low to medium heat to avoid overcooking. Alternatively, a quick microwave blast works if you’re short on time. Add a small pat of butter or a sprinkle of fresh lemon juice to refresh the flavors before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp directly for this recipe?
It’s best to thaw shrimp under cold water before cooking so they cook evenly. Using frozen shrimp without thawing could result in uneven cooking and less flavorful results.
What can I substitute for Parmesan if I’m allergic?
Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese work well as substitutes, offering a similar salty, sharp flavor. For dairy-free options, nutritional yeast provides a cheesy boost without lactose.
Is paprika necessary in the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe?
While not mandatory, paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth that enhances the dish’s flavor depth. You can use sweet or regular paprika depending on your preference.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked perfectly?
Shrimp cook quickly and turn pink with opaque flesh when done. Overbaking causes toughness, so check for doneness starting around 8 minutes to keep them tender.
Can I make this recipe without butter?
Butter is key for richness and helps the cheese coating stick, but you could replace it with olive oil for a lighter version. The taste and texture will differ slightly, but it still works well.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is a winner every time you make it — a wonderful blend of simple ingredients that come together to create a dish full of big flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, I promise this recipe will become a beloved part of your rotation. So grab those shrimp and get ready to create something truly delicious that everyone will rave about!
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Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe features juicy, tender shrimp coated in a flavorful mixture of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, and fresh parsley, all baked to perfection with a luscious lemon butter glaze. It’s a quick and delicious dish perfect for a family dinner or entertaining guests, offering a delightful combination of savory, tangy, and buttery flavors with minimal prep and cook time.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 2 pounds raw shrimp, 26/30 count, thawed (tails on, peeled and deveined, preferably Icy Ocean brand)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika (regular or sweet)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (cut small or chopped)
- 1/2 of a lemon (zest plus juice)
Other
- 4 tablespoons salted butter (melted)
- Cooking spray (for greasing baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C). Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent the shrimp from sticking during baking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: If frozen, thaw the shrimp under cold running water. Ensure that both the inner and outer veins are completely removed. Use a small knife, shrimp deveiner tool, or the tip of a metal skewer to loosen the vein and pull it out gently. Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and wash your hands well afterward.
- Prepare the Cheese Mixture: Place the freshly grated Parmesan cheese on a dinner plate. Add the garlic powder and paprika to the cheese.
- Add Lemon Zest: Rinse the lemon and pat it dry. Zest half the lemon using a zester or grater, taking care to only get the yellow part of the peel. Add the lemon zest to the cheese mixture.
- Add Fresh Parsley: Rinse and pat dry the fresh parsley. Cut it into small pieces with scissors or chop finely. Add the parsley to the cheese mixture and mix everything together with a fork to combine evenly.
- Melt Butter: Melt the salted butter in a microwave-safe measuring cup. The melted butter will be used to coat the shrimp before dredging in the cheese mixture.
- Coat the Shrimp: Set up an assembly line with shrimp, melted butter, cheese mixture, and the prepared baking sheet. Dunk a few shrimp into the melted butter, grasping them by the tail to coat both sides lightly. Then dredge each shrimp in the cheese mixture, coating all sides evenly. Place coated shrimp on the baking sheet. Repeat until all shrimp are coated.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes. The shrimp should be cooked through, opaque, and tender but not tough.
- Finish and Serve: Squeeze the juice of the remaining half lemon over the baked shrimp for a fresh, tangy finish. Serve the shrimp over rice for a gluten-free meal or with crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Notes
- Buy shrimp frozen with tails on, peeled, and deveined for best flavor and texture.
- Removing the vein improves both the appearance and taste of the shrimp.
- You can substitute sweet paprika with smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal taste and texture rather than pre-packaged grated cheese.
- Make sure not to overbake the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Serve with your favorite sides like steamed vegetables, pasta, or fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Leftover shrimp maintain best quality refrigerated and should be consumed within four days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
