If you love quick, flavorful dishes that never fail to impress, the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to. This dish combines juicy shrimp with a luscious garlicky butter sauce, all topped with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese that bakes to golden, bubbling perfection. Perfect for a busy weeknight or an elegant appetizer, each bite is bursting with savory, zesty notes that make it superbly addictive. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread, this recipe offers comfort and sophistication all in one pan.

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t let the simplicity of these ingredients fool you; each one is essential for creating the rich flavors and beautiful textures that make this dish so irresistible. Fresh shrimp bring a tender, juicy base, while garlic and butter build the savory heart. Parmesan adds a nutty, salty crust, and a touch of smoked paprika and lemon juice gives just the right balance of smoky and bright notes.

1 ½ pounds large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off): Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted): This forms the rich, velvety sauce that coats every shrimp perfectly.
3 garlic cloves (minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with bold, aromatic flavor.
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, cheesy crust that browns gorgeously in the oven.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal brightness to balance the richness.
1 tablespoon lemon juice: A splash of acidity that cuts through the buttery richness and elevates the dish.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a gentle kick, perfect if you like a little heat.
Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together harmoniously.

How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Shrimp

First, preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready when your shrimp go in. While the oven heats, take your shrimp and pat them dry to help them soak up the buttery garlic sauce better. This step is simple but makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

Step 2: Mix the Flavor-Packed Sauce

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This is where the magic starts: the butter and garlic form a luscious base, while lemon and paprika bring brightness and warmth.

Step 3: Coat and Arrange the Shrimp

Add your shrimp to the bowl and toss gently but thoroughly until every piece is evenly coated with the flavorful butter mixture. Then, spread the shrimp out in a single layer in your baking dish to ensure even cooking and maximize that golden, bubbly finish.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Bake

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the shrimp, which will melt and brown beautifully in the oven. Bake the shrimp for 10 to 12 minutes, watching for them to turn pink and opaque — the key sign they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Broil for the Perfect Finish

For an irresistible golden top, switch your oven to broil and cook the shrimp under the heat for 1 to 2 more minutes. Keep a close eye to avoid burning — you want a bubbly, crispy Parmesan crust that adds a satisfying texture contrast.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and fresh herbal flavor. Serve immediately so you can enjoy the dish when it’s at its most flavorful and satisfying.

How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the dish, but you can also add a little extra lemon zest or a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil to enhance the flavors and presentation. A dusting of cracked black pepper adds a nice finishing touch for those who love a bit of spice.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with simple sides like buttery mashed potatoes, pasta tossed in olive oil or garlic butter, or even a crisp green salad for a lighter option. Don’t forget crusty bread to mop up all that garlicky, cheesy sauce — it’s the perfect way to complete your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties or appetizers, serve the shrimp in small individual dishes or on a platter with toothpicks for easy grabbing. You can also serve it spooned over creamy polenta or tucked into garlic naan for a fun, unexpected twist that your guests will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your shrimp, place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will stay good for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy this delicious dish again for lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

While freshly baked shrimp tastes best, you can freeze leftover cooked shrimp in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to a month. When ready to use, thaw them gently in the refrigerator to preserve their texture and flavor as much as possible.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a low oven (around 300°F) to avoid overcooking. You can also reheat them briefly in a skillet with a little butter or olive oil to refresh their texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving as it can make shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

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

Absolutely! Just make sure to thoroughly thaw and pat the shrimp dry before mixing them with the sauce to ensure even cooking and the best texture.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?

Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese can work well as substitutes, lending a similarly sharp, salty flavor to complement the garlic and butter.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields about 4 servings, with each serving offering around 6 ounces of shrimp, perfectly portioned for a main course or appetizer.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Cherry tomatoes, asparagus tips, or spinach can be added to the baking dish for extra color, nutrients, and texture — just adjust baking time accordingly to keep shrimp perfectly cooked.

Final Thoughts

I truly believe the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special without requiring hours in the kitchen. It’s a wonderful way to bring bold flavors and comforting textures to your table fast, whether for a family dinner or impressing guests. Give it a try—you might find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.