If you are craving a seafood dish that bursts with flavor and comes together in a flash, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. The marriage of tender shrimp coated in a rich, garlicky olive oil mixture topped with golden, bubbly Parmesan cheese is pure magic. Every bite offers a perfect balance of savory, herby, and zesty notes, making it a surefire crowd-pleaser for weeknights or special occasions. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps it light without sacrificing any of the indulgent taste.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is all it takes to create this dazzling dish. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and keeping the shrimp juicy and irresistible.

Extra virgin olive oil: Provides a rich base that carries the garlic and herbs beautifully while keeping the shrimp moist.
Garlic cloves: Fresh garlic minced or pressed for that pungent, aromatic punch essential to the recipe’s signature taste.
Dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery herbal touch that complements the shrimp wonderfully.
Dried basil: Lends a sweet and fragrant element that balances the garlic and lemon zest.
Kosher salt: Enhances natural flavors thoughtfully without overpowering.
Freshly ground black pepper: Delivers a subtle heat that awakens the palate.
Lemon zest: Brings brightness and a gentle citrus aroma, cutting through the richness.
Deveined shrimp: The star ingredient, tender and sweet, ready for baking.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Creates a crispy, nutty golden crust topping that perfectly compliments the shrimp.
Flat Italian parsley: Fresh chopped sprigs for garnishing, adding color and a fresh herbal finish.

How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your shrimp get cooked evenly with the perfect crispy Parmesan topping without drying out.

Step 2: Combine the Flavorful Marinade

In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, dried basil, kosher salt, black pepper, and lemon zest. This enchanting blend will form a luscious marinade that coats each shrimp with vibrant layers of flavor.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Add your shrimp to the bowl and toss gently but thoroughly, making sure every piece is evenly coated. This step guarantees the shrimp absorb all those wonderful herbs and spices, promising every bite is bursting with taste.

Step 4: Arrange and Add Cheese

Transfer the marinated shrimp in a single layer to a baking dish. This layout helps them cook evenly and develop that coveted Parmesan crust. Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top, covering each shrimp with a delightful cheesy blanket.

Step 5: Bake to Perfectness

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn a pretty pink color and the Parmesan turns golden and crispy. Be careful not to overcook to keep the shrimp tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, remove from the oven and garnish immediately with freshly chopped flat Italian parsley. This adds a fresh burst of color and flavor that complements the rich dish perfectly.

How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is the classic choice for a reason—it adds a pop of vibrant green and a mild herbal lift. You can also try a light sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or a drizzle of lemon juice for extra zing right before serving.

Side Dishes

This shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides like garlic butter noodles, creamy risotto, or a crisp green salad. For a low-carb option, serve it atop cauliflower rice or alongside sautéed vegetables for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, present the shrimp over a bed of buttery crostini or stuffed inside avocado halves for a stunning appetizer. You can also use it as a topping for pizzas or toss it into a pasta dish to showcase its garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best consumed within 2 days to ensure freshness and flavor remain intact.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover shrimp in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 1 month. Make sure to press out as much air as possible before sealing to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a low oven or microwave to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Covering with foil and warming at 300°F (150°C) helps maintain moistness while restoring crispiness to the Parmesan.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to avoid excess water which can interfere with browning and texture.

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

The shrimp will turn opaque and pink and curl slightly into a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly into an “O” and become tough, so watch carefully during baking.

Can I substitute Parmesan cheese with another type of cheese?

While Parmesan is key for its nutty flavor and excellent melting qualities, Pecorino Romano or Asiago can work as alternatives, offering their own unique notes.

Is this recipe spicy?

The classic recipe is mild, focusing on garlic and herb flavors. If you love spice, feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce after baking.

Can I prepare this dish without an oven?

If you don’t have access to an oven, you can cook the shrimp on the stovetop in a skillet over medium heat, turning until the cheese melts and the shrimp are cooked through, though the texture will differ slightly from baking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a quick, elegant dish that feels indulgent yet simple, the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s one of those recipes that you’ll want to make again and again, impressing friends and family with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Go ahead, give it a try, and let those garlicky, cheesy aromas fill your kitchen with happiness.