The minute this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp goes into the oven, your kitchen fills with a rich garlicky aroma and a buttery, cheesy perfume that makes you glad you did the prep ahead.
I love making this on a busy weeknight when I want something feel special without spending hours in the kitchen, or when I need an impressive appetizer that almost no one will guess is simple baked shrimp.
SaveOne pan, minimal mess, and a whole lot of flavor make this my go to weeknight recipe that everyone reaches for seconds.
Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
Shrimp and coating
Optional additions and sides
Instructions
- Prep the shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning; toss until every piece is evenly coated.
- Add cheese and parsley
Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley over the shrimp and toss gently to combine, letting the cheese cling to the shrimp without clumping.
- Add vegetables if using
Toss in the cherry tomatoes and broccoli florets, turning them in the garlic oil so they get lightly coated and will roast alongside the shrimp.
- Spread on a baking sheet
Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup, then spread the shrimp and vegetables in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
- Bake until just cooked
Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn opaque pink and are just cooked through, and the Parmesan is golden and bubbly around the edges.
- Check for doneness
Cut into the largest shrimp to confirm they are no longer translucent; if they need a minute or two more, continue baking but keep an eye on the cheese to prevent burning.
- Finish and rest
Remove from the oven, give the shrimp a quick gentle toss, and let them rest for a few minutes so the juices settle and the cheese sets slightly for easier serving.
- Serve and garnish
Transfer to a serving platter or into bowls, squeeze a little fresh lemon over the top, scatter extra parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite sides.
Substitutions and variations
- Use medium shrimp if large are not available, and reduce baking time by a few minutes.
- Substitute fresh lemon juice with 1 teaspoon lemon zest plus 1 tablespoon vinegar for brightness.
- Replace Parmesan with shredded mozzarella for a milder, stretchy finish.
- Swap smoked paprika with regular paprika and add a pinch of chili powder for a similar depth.
Chloe's tips
- Do not overcrowd the baking sheet; spread the shrimp in a single layer so they roast and crisp rather than steam.
- For extra zing, add a pinch of lemon zest to the coating along with the garlic.
- If you like a saucier finish, toss the baked shrimp with an extra spoon of olive oil and a splash of white wine after baking.
- Quickly reheat leftovers in a hot skillet for a few minutes to restore some crispness instead of using the microwave.
How to store it
- Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a preheated 375 degree Fahrenheit oven for 5 to 7 minutes or in a hot skillet until warmed through and slightly crisp.
Serving suggestions
Serve these fragrant garlic Parmesan shrimp as a quick main with pasta or rice, or as an appetizer with cocktails.
- Over cooked pasta or rice
- Lemon wedges for extra brightness
- A simple green salad
- Garlic bread for dipping
Frequently asked questions
Can I cook the shrimp from frozen?
Yes, use thawed and thoroughly patted dry frozen shrimp; add a few extra minutes to the bake and watch for even doneness.
How do I know the shrimp are done?
They are done when they turn opaque pink, curl into a loose C shape, and reach an internal temperature of 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit.
Can I make this in a skillet on the stove top?
Absolutely, cook the coated shrimp in a hot oiled skillet over medium heat for 4 to 6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
What if I do not have fresh parsley?
Substitute with 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives or 1 teaspoon dried parsley, keeping in mind the flavor will be slightly different.
Let's get cooking!
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary weeknight into a little celebration, with tender shrimp, crispy golden cheese, and garlic perfume drifting through your home.
