Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Imagine plump, juicy shrimp, bathed in a sizzling sauce of butter, garlic, and herbs, then baked under a golden, bubbling blanket of Parmesan cheese. Now, imagine that elegant, restaurant-worthy dish being ready to serve in just 15 minutes, with minimal effort and cleanup. That’s the irresistible promise of this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe. It’s your secret weapon for turning an ordinary weeknight into a special occasion, proving that incredible flavor doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

WHY THIS BAKED GARLIC PARMESAN SHRIMP RECIPE IS A WEEKLY MUST

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe deserves a permanent spot in your rotation for five brilliant reasons.

• First, the speed is unbeatable from prep to plate in under 20 minutes.
• Second, it uses a single baking dish, meaning dramatic flavor with minimal cleanup.
• Third, the flavor profile is universally loved, combining the classic, crowd-pleasing trio of garlic, butter, and Parmesan.
• Furthermore, it’s incredibly versatile, serving beautifully over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
• Finally, it feels indulgent and special, yet is made with simple, affordable ingredients you likely already have.

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INGREDIENTS FOR YOUR QUICK & ELEGANT MEAL

The short ingredient list is key to the speed and flavor of this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp. You’ll need 1 pound of large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count), peeled and deveined tails on or off based on your preference. For the luscious sauce, have 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted, and 4-5 large garlic cloves, minced. You’ll need ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese (please grate it yourself from a block for best melting).

Flavor comes from 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning or dried oregano, and ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for heat). Finish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley, and salt and black pepper to taste.

THE TOOLS YOU’LL NEED

You truly only need one key piece of cookware: a large, oven-safe baking dish or skillet (like a 9×13 inch dish or a 10-inch cast-iron skillet). You’ll also need a small bowl for mixing the sauce, a microplane or box grater for the Parmesan, a garlic press (optional), and a spatula or spoon for tossing. That’s it!

STEP-BY-STEP: HOW TO MAKE BAKED GARLIC PARMESAN SHRIMP

The process is wonderfully straightforward, delivering maximum flavor with minimal steps.

1. Prep the Shrimp: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for the sauce to cling properly and for the shrimp to roast, not steam. Place the dried shrimp in your baking dish in a single layer.

2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk it all together.

3. Coat and Cheese: Pour the fragrant garlic butter sauce evenly over the shrimp, tossing gently to ensure each one is coated. Sprinkle the freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the shrimp.

BAKING TO PERFECT, JUICY DONENESS

4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 8-10 minutes, then switch your oven to BROIL (HIGH) for an additional 1-2 minutes. You’re looking for the shrimp to be pink, opaque, and curled, and the Parmesan to be melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Do not overcook, or the shrimp will become rubbery.

5. Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the dish from the oven, the handle will be hot! Immediately sprinkle the baked garlic Parmesan shrimp with the chopped fresh parsley. Serve directly from the baking dish for a beautiful, rustic presentation.

PRO TIPS FOR THE BEST BAKED GARLIC PARMESAN SHRIMP EVERY TIME

Follow these simple tips for flawless Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp.

• First, pat your shrimp bone-dry before adding any sauce.
• Second, use fresh garlic for the brightest, most potent flavor.
• Third, grate your own Parmesan from a block; pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly.
• Finally, watch the broiler carefully it can go from golden to burned in seconds.

DELICIOUS RECIPE VARIATIONS TO TRY

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is a perfect canvas.

• For a Creamy Lemon Garlic Shrimp, stir 2 tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese into the butter sauce before baking.
• For Spicy Cajun Shrimp, swap the Italian seasoning for 1.5 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning.
• For Shrimp Scampi-Style, add ¼ cup of dry white wine to the butter sauce and serve over angel hair pasta.
• For a Keto/Low-Carb Version, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

STORAGE AND REHEATING NOTES

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp dish is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water, or in the microwave at 50% power in short bursts, to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

TROUBLESHOOTING COMMON SHRIMP ISSUES

“My shrimp released water and the sauce is watery.” This means the shrimp weren’t patted dry enough before cooking. To fix, you can carefully pour the sauce into a saucepan after baking and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce and thicken it.
“The cheese isn’t melting into a sauce.” This is likely due to using pre-shredded Parmesan. Freshly grated cheese will melt much more readily into the butter.
“My shrimp are tough.” They were overcooked. Shrimp cook very quickly; as soon as they turn opaque and form a “C” shape, they are done. Remember they will continue to cook slightly from residual heat.

WHAT TO SERVE WITH YOUR SHRIMP

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is a superstar main. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of steamed rice, pasta (like linguine or fettuccine), or creamy polenta. It’s also perfect with crusty bread or garlic bread to soak up every drop of the incredible sauce. A simple side salad or steamed asparagus makes for a light, balanced plate.

A QUICK NOTE ON SHRIMP SIZE & QUALITY

For the best texture, choose large (21/25 or 16/20 count) raw shrimp, either fresh or frozen/thawed. “Easy-peel” shrimp are a great time-saver. If using frozen, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator in a colander to drain excess water.

MY KITCHEN STORY: THE DINNER THAT FEELS LIKE A VACATION

I discovered the magic of this method on a busy weeknight when I craved the flavors of a seaside Italian restaurant but had zero time. I tossed shrimp with what I had butter, garlic, Parmesan, and threw it in the oven. The result was so shockingly good, so fast, that it immediately became our “fake fancy” dinner.

Now, Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is my go-to for last-minute guests, date nights in, and whenever I need a quick reminder that a delicious, satisfying meal is never far away. It’s a little taste of luxury on a Tuesday.

FINAL CHECKLIST BEFORE YOU BAKE

• Shrimp are peeled, deveined, and patted very dry.
• Oven is preheated to 400°F.
• Garlic is freshly minced.
• Parmesan is freshly grated.
• Baking dish is oven-safe.
• You’re ready to eat in 15 minutes!

BAKED GARLIC PARMESAN SHRIMP FAQS

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
It is not recommended for this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe, as they will almost certainly overcook and become tough during the baking process. Raw shrimp are essential.

Can I make this in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 400°F for 5-7 minutes in a single layer, checking for doneness early. The sauce and cheese will cook beautifully.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure you serve it with gluten-free pasta, rice, or vegetables.