Are you ready to enjoy a delicious meal in under 30 minutes? This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is quick, easy, and full of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a dish that impresses your family and friends. Follow my step-by-step guide for a shrimp dinner that everyone will love. Let’s dive into your new favorite recipe!
Ingredients
To make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s the list:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges for serving
Each ingredient brings its own flavor to the dish. The large shrimp provide a sweet, tender base. The butter and garlic make a rich sauce. Smoked paprika adds a hint of warmth, while lemon zest brightens the flavors. Parmesan cheese gives a nice, salty crunch. Panko breadcrumbs add a crisp texture, and fresh parsley brings color and freshness.
I recommend using fresh shrimp for the best taste. But frozen shrimp can work too. Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking. If you want to make this recipe even easier, you can use pre-minced garlic.
You can find the full recipe and instructions to create this delicious dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is key. It ensures your shrimp cook evenly and turn out perfectly.
Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, smoked paprika, and lemon zest. Stir well to blend the flavors. This garlic butter mixture gives the shrimp a rich taste.
Coat the Shrimp
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Toss them in the garlic butter mixture. Make sure every shrimp gets coated well. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper to taste.
Assemble in Baking Dish
Transfer the shrimp to a baking dish. Spread them out evenly. This helps them cook well and get crispy.
Create the Topping
In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and chopped parsley. This will be the crunchy topping. Sprinkle this mix generously over the shrimp in the baking dish.
Bake the Shrimp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque. The topping will turn golden brown. When done, remove it from the oven. Let it cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp! For a complete guide, check out the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
How to Choose Fresh Shrimp
Choosing fresh shrimp is easy. Look for shrimp with a firm texture. They should smell like the ocean, not fishy. The shells should be clean and shiny. If you buy them with shells on, check for black spots. These spots mean the shrimp are old. If possible, buy wild-caught shrimp. They have better flavor than farmed shrimp.
Optimal Baking Time
Baking time is key for juicy shrimp. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes. Shrimp turn pink when they are ready. They should look opaque, not clear. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Keep an eye on them while they bake. If you want a crispy topping, broil for the last minute. This adds a nice crunch without drying out the shrimp.
Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings
Seasonings make a big difference in taste. Garlic and lemon zest boost flavor in this dish. Smoked paprika adds a warm, smoky touch. You can try adding chili flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like parsley brighten the dish. Don’t forget salt and pepper for balance. Mix and match seasonings to find your perfect flavor. For more ideas, check out the Full Recipe.
Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
You can make this dish spicy by adding red pepper flakes. Just one teaspoon can add a nice kick! Mix the flakes with the garlic butter before coating the shrimp. If you love heat, try using a spicy seasoning blend instead. The addition of fresh jalapeños can also spice things up.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp with Herbs
For a fresh twist, add lemon juice and fresh herbs. Use about two tablespoons of lemon juice in the garlic butter mix. Then, add herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant taste. These bright flavors balance well with the cheese and garlic. This version is perfect for summer days.
Adding Vegetables to the Dish
You can easily make this dish heartier by adding vegetables. Consider using asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini. Cut the veggies into bite-sized pieces and toss them in the garlic butter mix. Spread them evenly in the baking dish with the shrimp. This adds color and nutrients, making your meal more filling.
Be sure to check out the Full Recipe for more details!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp fresh, place leftovers in an airtight container. You can store them in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure the shrimp cool down before sealing the container. This helps keep the shrimp juicy and flavorful.
Reheating Instructions
When you are ready to enjoy the leftovers, reheating is simple. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warm. This method keeps the shrimp from drying out. You can also use a microwave. Heat them in short bursts of 30 seconds until warm. Just be careful not to overcook them.
Freezing Options
If you want to keep the shrimp longer, you can freeze them. First, let the shrimp cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. Frozen shrimp can last for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoy a taste of your Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp anytime! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Put them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps them defrost quickly. Once thawed, pat them dry before using. This step keeps your dish from becoming watery.
What can I serve with Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp?
You can serve Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp with many sides. Here are some great options:
– Rice or quinoa for a filling base.
– A fresh green salad for a light touch.
– Garlic bread to soak up the tasty sauce.
– Steamed veggies for added crunch.
These sides balance the rich flavors of the shrimp.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Shrimp cook fast. They are done when they turn pink and opaque. You can also check their shape; they curl into a C shape. If they curl tightly, they may be overcooked. Keep an eye on them while baking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Mix the shrimp with the garlic butter and place them in the baking dish. Cover it and store it in the fridge. When ready to bake, just sprinkle the topping and put it in the oven. This saves time for busy days. For the full recipe, check out the link above.
This recipe shows how to make Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step baking, and tips for great flavor. Variations let you get creative, and storage advice helps keep leftovers fresh.
Enjoy this dish with friends and family. It’s simple yet delicious. With practice, you’ll master it quickly. Now, get cooking!
