Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of seafood lovers everywhere. This irresistible recipe combines the natural sweetness of shrimp with the savory, umami-rich flavors of Parmesan cheese and garlic, creating a dish that is both impressive and incredibly easy to prepare.
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a delicious and satisfying meal, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is sure to delight. With its crispy, golden-brown topping and juicy, tender shrimp, it’s a dish that will have your guests raving and your family asking for seconds.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp apart is the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The shrimp are cooked to perfection, retaining their natural sweetness and juiciness, while the Parmesan and garlic topping adds a delightful crunch and a burst of savory goodness. Plus, the dish is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It can be served as a main course with a side of roasted vegetables or alongside pasta or rice for a complete meal. Plus, the recipe can be easily adapted to suit various dietary needs, making it a crowd-pleasing option for gatherings with diverse dietary preferences.
Finally, the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is an excellent make-ahead option, as the uncooked shrimp can be prepared in advance and baked just before serving. This makes it a fantastic choice for hosting, as you can prepare the dish ahead of time and simply pop it in the oven when your guests arrive.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp ❓
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp ❓
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
The beauty of this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of juicy shrimp, grated Parmesan, and fragrant garlic creates the Italian-inspired flavor profile that has made seafood-based recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, melted butter, chopped parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
• Step 3: Arrange the peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Sprinkle the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp, gently pressing it onto the shrimp to help it adhere.
• Step 4: Bake the shrimp for 12-15 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery if baked for too long.
• Step 5: Remove the baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional chopped parsley, if desired.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 12-15 minutes
• Total time: 22-25 minutes
Compared to traditional shrimp scampi or baked shrimp which can take up to 30 minutes to prepare, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp saves you 25-30% of your cooking time while delivering similar flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 4 servings):
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fat: 11g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sodium: 540mg
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp provide approximately 48% of your daily protein requirements and 23% of your daily sodium needs, making them not just delicious but nutritionally valuable as well.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Omit the panko breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative and vegan butter or olive oil.
• Added protein: Serve the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp over a bed of quinoa or brown rice for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Roast some broccoli, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes alongside the shrimp for a more well-rounded meal.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental flavor profile of the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a fresh green salad or a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.
• Complement the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with a light, refreshing white wine or a zesty lemon-infused cocktail.
• For a casual dinner, serve the shrimp alongside crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping in the delicious pan juices.
• Create an impressive appetizer platter by arranging the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp alongside sliced baguette, cherry tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not preheating the oven: Failing to preheat the oven can result in the shrimp taking longer to cook and the topping not browning properly. Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the shrimp.
• Overcrowding the baking sheet: Arranging the shrimp in a single layer is crucial for even cooking and crisping of the topping. Avoid piling the shrimp on top of each other, as this can lead to steaming instead of baking.
• Forgetting to season the shrimp: Don’t forget to season the shrimp with salt and pepper before adding the Parmesan-breadcrumb topping. This will help to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Skipping the butter: The melted butter in the topping helps to create a crispy, golden-brown crust. Omitting the butter can result in a less flavorful and less crunchy topping.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the shrimp with the Parmesan-breadcrumb topping, but do not bake. Place the unbaked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to an airtight container or resealable bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked shrimp to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or wrap individual servings in foil or plastic wrap. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is crisp again.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. This will help to restore the crispy texture of the topping.
❓ FAQs
Can I prepare the Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp in advance?
Yes, this recipe is excellent for make-ahead preparation. You can assemble the shrimp with the Parmesan-breadcrumb topping up to 1 day in advance, cover, and refrigerate until ready to bake. When ready to serve, simply bake the shrimp as directed in the recipe.
Can I use a different type of cheese besides Parmesan?
Absolutely! While Parmesan cheese provides a delicious savory flavor, you can also use other hard, aged cheeses like Asiago or Romano. These will add a similar nutty, umami-rich taste to the topping. For a milder flavor, try using a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella or cheddar cheese.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
Yes, with a few simple modifications, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp can be easily adapted for a low-carb or keto diet. Instead of using panko breadcrumbs, you can substitute almond flour or crushed pork rinds to create a crunchy topping without the carbs. Additionally, you can use a low-carb Parmesan cheese alternative to further reduce the carbohydrate content.
What should I do if the topping doesn’t get crispy?
If the Parmesan-breadcrumb topping doesn’t achieve the desired crispiness, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Ensure that the oven is fully preheated before baking, and avoid overcrowding the shrimp on the baking sheet. You can also try broiling the shrimp for the last 2-3 minutes of cooking to help crisp up the topping.
Can I add any extra ingredients to this recipe?
Absolutely! The Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a versatile recipe that lends itself well to customization. You can try adding chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the topping for additional flavor. For a bit of heat, you can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or even add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also experiment with incorporating other ingredients like sliced lemon, diced tomatoes, or chopped spinach.
Conclusion
These Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a show-stopping appetizer or a main course, they’re sure to impress with their crispy, golden-brown topping and juicy, tender shrimp. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking process. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful seafood dish tonight? Your taste buds will thank you.
