Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp: Quick & Delicious Dinner Delight
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a quick and delicious dinner delight that’s not only packed with flavor but also incredibly easy to prepare. This recipe brings together the rich taste of garlic, the tanginess of lemon, and the creamy goodness of Parmesan cheese, creating a meal that you and your family will love. Plus, it can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or surprising guests with a delightful dish.
Why Make This Recipe
One of the best things about Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is how versatile and approachable it is. Shrimp is a quick-cooking protein that takes on flavors beautifully, but it can be challenging to make it exciting. This recipe elevates simple shrimp to a gourmet level with minimal effort. The combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan creates a savory and rich topping that complements the shrimp wonderfully. Plus, you can use fresh or frozen shrimp, making it an easy meal to whip up any time. With just a handful of ingredients, you can have a restaurant-quality meal right at home!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Ready to dive into this mouthwatering recipe? Here’s how you can make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp step by step.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined (Frozen shrimp can be used if thawed thoroughly.)
- 4 Tbsp Butter (Or olive oil for a lighter option.)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced (Fresh minced or pre-minced for convenience.)
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (Fresh for best flavor; pre-grated works too.)
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice (Preferably fresh.)
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning (Can substitute with dried oregano and thyme.)
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (Optional, adjust to spice preference.)
- to taste Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
- to taste Pepper (Essential for seasoning.)
- 2 Tbsp Chopped parsley (For garnish.)
- 2 wedges Lemon (Serve alongside for extra freshness.)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter or olive oil. Add the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until the shrimp are well coated.
- Spread the shrimp mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish. Serve with lemon wedges for an added zing.
Pro Tips for Success with Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
- Use Quality Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will yield the best taste. Look for shrimp labeled "wild-caught" for superior flavor.
- Don’t Overcook: Keep a close eye on the shrimp as they cook. They’ll turn pink and opaque when done; overcooking can make them tough.
- Mix Up Your Seasonings: Feel free to get creative with different herbs or spices to suit your taste.
- Oven Times May Vary: Depending on your oven, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Start checking at the 10-minute mark.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after baking, while the shrimp are still juicy and the cheese is bubbly.
Flavor Variations for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
- Add Vegetables: Toss in some asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes before baking to make it a complete meal.
- Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix in other cheeses like mozzarella or Gruyère for a different taste and texture.
- Spicy Twist: For those who enjoy some heat, add more red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce before serving.
- Citrusy Zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for an extra burst of lemon flavor.
- Herb Bliss: Swap out the Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a more vibrant dish.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with:
- Garlic Bread: A classic choice, it’s perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Pasta: Toss the shrimp with spaghetti or linguine for a satisfying meal.
- Rice: Fluffy white rice or quinoa can complement the shrimp and balance the flavors well.
- Salad: A light side salad with greens and a simple vinaigrette can add freshness to your plate.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
- Refrigerator: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stove to avoid overcooking.
- Freezer: If you want to freeze the baked shrimp, place it in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: ~22g
- Carbohydrates: ~3g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~0g
- Sodium: ~500mg
FAQ About Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before using them in this recipe. It’s best to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or run them under cold water to speed up the process.
Can I substitute the butter with something healthier?
Yes! You can replace butter with olive oil for a lighter option. Olive oil will provide a wonderful flavor and a healthier fat profile, making it a great substitution.
How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp cook quickly and will turn pink and opaque when they are fully cooked. For safety, the internal temperature should reach 120°F (49°C).
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
For the best texture, it’s recommended to prepare this dish fresh, as the shrimp can become rubbery if reheated. However, you can mix the shrimp with the other ingredients and store it in the fridge for a few hours until you’re ready to bake.
Can I make this without garlic?
Certainly! If you’re not a fan of garlic, you can either reduce the amount used or omit it entirely. Consider substituting with other herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is a quick and delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean straight to your table in no time. With its buttery, cheesy goodness and the zesty kick of lemon, it’s bound to become a favorite on your dinner rotation. Its simplicity and flexibility make it easy to adjust to your family’s tastes. So next time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal, reach for this recipe and enjoy a delightful seafood dish that’s sure to impress!
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Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A quick and delicious dinner delight featuring shrimp baked with garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 Tbsp Butter (or olive oil)
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 Tbsp Lemon juice
- 1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
- to taste Salt
- to taste Pepper
- 2 Tbsp Chopped parsley (for garnish)
- 2 wedges Lemon (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter or olive oil. Add the minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix until the shrimp are well coated.
- Spread the shrimp mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
- Once done, remove from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley for garnish. Serve with lemon wedges for an added zing.
Notes
Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and adjust cooking time according to your oven. Serve warm for the best experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Seafood