Description
This Parmesan Crusted Garlic Shrimp recipe features large shrimp coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and spices, then baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy and quick dish that can serve as a delicious main course or appetizer, perfect for pairing with pasta, salad, or rice. The crispy, cheesy crust combined with garlicky shrimp makes for an irresistible meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Parmesan Crust
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with the olive oil and minced garlic until they are evenly coated. This will infuse the shrimp with garlic flavor and help the crust stick.
- Make Parmesan Mixture: In a separate bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. This mixture creates the crispy, flavorful crust.
- Coat Shrimp: Press each shrimp into the Parmesan mixture, coating both sides thoroughly to ensure each shrimp has a good crust. Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet for even cooking.
- Bake Shrimp: Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8 to 10 minutes, until they are fully cooked through and the coating is golden and crisp. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch carefully to avoid overcooking.
- Optional Broil: For extra crispiness, broil the shrimp for an additional 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges for fresh, bright flavor. This dish works well as an appetizer or over your choice of pasta, salad, or rice.
Notes
- For even crispier results, finish under the broiler for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve over pasta, salad, or rice, or enjoy as a standalone appetizer.
- Fresh shrimp yields the best texture, but thawed frozen shrimp can be used as a convenient alternative.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness or omit for a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
