If you’re craving something bursting with flavor and crunch, this Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp enveloped in a golden, crispy coating of Parmesan and panko breadcrumbs, all kissed by the warmth of garlic and a hint of smoked paprika. It’s simply irresistible and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen. Every bite delivers a mouthwatering combination of savory cheese, subtle spice, and fresh herbs that will have you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple ingredients that work together beautifully to create a dish that’s full of flavor and texture. Each component, from the olive oil to the fresh parsley, has a role in making your shrimp crispy, aromatic, and bright.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on: The star of the dish, shrimp provide a succulent and tender bite.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps the garlic infuse the shrimp while ensuring a golden crust.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates every bite.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives the crust a nutty, savory richness.
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates that signature light and crispy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings depth with a subtle smoky warmth.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley: A fresh, herbal brightness to finish the dish.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Their acidity cuts through the richness for a balanced bite.
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Shrimp
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step ensures your shrimp cook evenly and don’t stick while allowing the crust to crisp up beautifully.
Step 2: Toss Shrimp with Olive Oil and Garlic
In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and minced garlic. Toss them well so every shrimp is nicely coated, helping the garlic aroma infuse and prepping the surface for the crust to adhere.
Step 3: Mix the Parmesan Crust
In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This mixture is what gives the shrimp their irresistible golden and crunchy coating.
Step 4: Coat the Shrimp
Take each shrimp and dredge it in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently so the crust sticks tightly. This step is key to ensuring a crunchy bite that won’t fall off during baking.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn opaque and the crust is perfectly golden and crisp.
Step 6: Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness
If you want that extra bit of crunch, pop the shrimp under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking. Keep a close eye so they don’t burn, but this little trick makes the crust even more addictive.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the hot shrimp, then serve with lemon wedges to squeeze on top for a fresh zing that brightens every mouthful.
How to Serve Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A simple sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a gentle herbal flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich, cheesy crust. Don’t skip the lemon wedges either — a squeeze of fresh lemon juice enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness and cuts through the richness perfectly.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with light, fresh sides: a crisp green salad, buttery steamed asparagus, or a fluffy bed of garlic mashed potatoes. For a low-carb option, try serving it alongside sautéed zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice to keep the meal vibrant and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun appetizer, skewer the shrimp and serve them as handheld bites at your next gathering. Alternatively, plate the shrimp over creamy risotto or toss them with linguine for an elevated pasta dish. Whatever you choose, the golden Parmesan crust steals the show every time.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind, the crust may soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious and ready to enjoy again.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To bring back the crispiness, reheat the shrimp in a 375°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes rather than microwaving. This will revive the crust and keep the shrimp tender, just like when freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before coating and baking. Excess moisture can prevent the crust from crisping properly.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets without sacrificing crunch.
Can I prepare the crust mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the Parmesan, breadcrumbs, and spices ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, which helps speed up meal prep.
What other seasonings can I add?
Feel free to experiment by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat, Italian seasoning for herbaceous notes, or lemon zest to brighten the crust even more.
How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?
The shrimp turn from translucent to an opaque pinkish-white color when cooked through. The Parmesan crust will be golden and crispy, signaling it’s time to take them out.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something magical about this Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp Recipe that always wins over family and friends. Its easy prep, quick bake time, and stunning balance of flavors make it a go-to anytime you want something impressive but approachable. Trust me, once you try it, it will become one of your favorite seafood dishes to have in your rotation. So grab those shrimp, get that Parmesan ready, and treat yourself to a delightfully crispy, garlicky meal!
Print
Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp recipe features succulent large shrimp coated in a flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and smoked paprika, then baked to golden, crispy perfection. Enhanced with garlic and fresh parsley, it’s a quick and easy main course ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, served with bright lemon wedges for a zesty finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free breadcrumbs for gluten-free option)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Toss Shrimp with Olive Oil and Garlic: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and minced garlic, tossing until each shrimp is evenly coated with the mixture to infuse flavor.
- Prepare Parmesan Coating: In a separate bowl, mix together grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful crust mixture.
- Coat Shrimp with Parmesan Mixture: Dredge each shrimp individually in the cheese and breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the coating adheres well to the shrimp.
- Arrange Shrimp on Baking Sheet: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not overlap for even cooking and crisping.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, until cooked through and the crust turns golden and crispy.
- Optional Broil for Extra Crispiness: For an extra crispy finish, broil the shrimp for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove shrimp from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the shrimp for 1-2 minutes after baking.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs but expect a slightly different texture.
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcrowded on the baking sheet to allow even cooking and browning.
- This recipe works well as a quick main or appetizer.
