Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Tender shrimp baked with garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese. Crispy edges, juicy interior, and ready in under 20 minutes. Perfect as an appetizer, over pasta, or with a side salad.

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 2–4)

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted

• 3–4 garlic cloves, minced

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Lemon wedges, for serving

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prep Oven & Shrimp

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Arrange shrimp in a single layer on a greased baking sheet or dish.

2️⃣ Make Garlic Parmesan Mixture

• Mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.

• Brush evenly over the shrimp.

3️⃣ Add Parmesan

• Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly on top of the shrimp.

4️⃣ Bake

• Bake for 8–10 minutes, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.

• Optional: Broil for 1–2 minutes for extra golden tops.

5️⃣ Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges.

• Serve as an appetizer or over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.

⭐ Tips

• Do not overcook shrimp—they cook very quickly.

• Can use pre-cooked shrimp; just reduce baking time to 4–5 minutes.

• Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.

❓ Q & A

Q: What size shrimp works best?
A: Large or extra-large shrimp (21–25 count). Smaller shrimp overcook quickly.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes—thaw completely and pat very dry before baking.

Q: How do I know shrimp are done?
A: Shrimp turn pink, opaque, and curl into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Yes—season shrimp up to 12 hours ahead, cover and refrigerate. Bake fresh.

Q: How do I keep shrimp from getting rubbery?
A: High heat, short cook time (8–10 min), and don’t overcrowd the pan.

⭐ Pro Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan (melts better than pre-shredded)

• Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for golden topping

• Line pan with parchment for easy cleanup

• Add lemon juice after baking, not before (keeps shrimp juicy)

🔄 Variations

Low-Carb / Keto:

• Use Parmesan + almond flour instead of breadcrumbs

Spicy Garlic Parmesan:

• Add red pepper flakes or cayenne

Mediterranean Style:

• Add chopped olives, oregano, and finish with lemon zest

Herb Parmesan:

• Add parsley, basil, or thyme

Air Fryer Version:

• Cook at 390°F (200°C) for 7–9 minutes

Butter-Free / Lighter:

• Use olive oil spray instead of butter

Cheesy Crust:

• • Mix Parmesan with crushed pork rinds for extra crunch