Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that combines bold flavors with effortless preparation, the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is an absolute winner. This recipe brings together tender, juicy shrimp coated in a garlicky, smoky marinade and topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan crust that elevates every bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake delivers a stellar blend of savory, cheesy, and fresh notes all in one irresistible bake.

Ingredients You’ll Need

It’s amazing how a handful of simple, quality ingredients can create such a flavorful dish. Each component in this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake plays a vital role, whether it’s boosting aroma, adding texture, or providing that perfect cheesy finish.

• Large shrimp (500 g/1 lb): Peeled and deveined shrimp form the hearty, protein-packed base that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors beautifully.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): Adds richness and helps the garlic and spices cling to the shrimp for an even coating.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its signature punchy and aromatic essence.
• Smoked paprika (½ tsp): Brings a subtle warmth and depth that complements the shrimp perfectly.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors naturally.
• Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): The star ingredient of the topping, offering a sharp, nutty flavor that crisps up beautifully.
• Panko breadcrumbs (¼ cup): Adds a delicate crunch to the topping, creating an irresistible texture contrast.
• Dried parsley (1 tsp): Lends a mild herbal note and a touch of color to brighten the crust.
• Melted butter (1 tbsp): Binds the topping ingredients and gives that rich, golden finish.
• Lemon wedges and fresh parsley (optional): Provide fresh acidity and color when serving, perfectly balancing the richness.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly greasing a baking dish. This ensures your shrimp bake won’t stick and helps the topping crisp up beautifully as it bakes.

Step 2: Toss the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated in this fragrant mixture, which will infuse them with incredible flavor during baking.

Step 3: Arrange Shrimp in Baking Dish

Place the shrimp in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Spreading them out evenly promotes even cooking and keeps the shrimp juicy and tender.

Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Topping

In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, dried parsley, and melted butter. This tasty topping is the secret to adding irresistible crunch and cheesy goodness on top of your shrimp.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the Parmesan mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure every piece receives a generous layer. Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. During this time, the shrimp will turn a lovely pink color and the topping will become golden and crispy—the perfect balance of tender and crunchy.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake

Garnishes

Fresh parsley and lemon wedges are classic garnishes for this dish, enhancing its vibrant flavors. The parsley adds a light herbal freshness, while a squeeze of lemon brings a bright, tangy contrast that cuts through the richness and ties everything together deliciously.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or your favorite pasta. For lighter options, serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, which complement the rich shrimp and Parmesan crust effortlessly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming presentation, consider serving the bake in individual ramekins or over a bed of garlic butter noodles. You can also transform it into a shareable appetizer by spooning shrimp on toasted baguette slices or crackers, perfect for gatherings where everyone can dig in.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake left, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Keeping it chilled ensures the shrimp stay juicy and the topping retains some of its texture, though it’s best enjoyed fresh.

Freezing

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed and reheated. For best results, prepare and bake fresh when you’re ready to enjoy the full flavor and texture experience.

Reheating

To reheat leftovers, warm the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake gently in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 8 to 10 minutes. This method helps maintain the topping’s crispiness without overcooking the shrimp. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make shrimp tough.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before tossing with the olive oil and spices. This prevents excess moisture from affecting the bake’s texture.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake has a mild smoky flavor from the smoked paprika but isn’t spicy. If you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Can I substitute the Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan is key for the classic flavor, you can try Pecorino Romano as a substitute for a sharper taste. Avoid softer cheeses as they won’t crisp up properly.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked perfectly?

The shrimp will be opaque with a lovely pink hue and curl slightly. Overcooked shrimp turns rubbery, so keep an eye during baking and remove when they just turn pink and the topping is golden.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to maintain that crispy topping while keeping it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is one of those dishes that feels both indulgent and effortless, perfect for when you want something special without fuss. I hope you enjoy making it as much as you enjoy eating it—trust me, it quickly becomes a favorite for any occasion. Give it a try and watch how this simple recipe delivers a big hit of flavor every time!

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