Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp

If you love seafood that’s fast, flavorful, and irresistibly crisp, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is the recipe for you. In just 20 minutes, you can create a dish that’s packed with savory garlic, nutty Parmesan, and a subtle smoky kick from paprika. Perfectly roasted, these shrimp are juicy on the inside and slightly golden on the edges, making them ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and elegant dinner parties.

The inspiration behind this recipe comes from classic garlic butter shrimp dishes, elevated with Parmesan and smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor and texture. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you get a dish that feels gourmet without being complicated. These shrimp shine as an appetizer, a protein-packed main course, or a topping for salads and pasta dishes.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or just craving a quick, satisfying seafood dinner, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a recipe that never disappoints. Its simplicity and bold flavors make it stand out as a versatile and reliable option for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish.
• Crispy and juicy: The Parmesan crust gives a perfect crunch while keeping shrimp tender.
• Flavor-packed: Garlic, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and parsley create a layered, savory taste.
• Versatile: Serve as an appetizer, main dish, or as a protein topping for pasta or salads.
• Family-friendly: Mild, savory flavors appeal to kids and adults alike.
• Customizable: Add red pepper flakes for a touch of heat if desired.

Ingredients Breakdown

This recipe yields 4 servings. All measurements are exact and organized for clarity.

Shrimp

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on

Seasonings & Coating

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper, to taste

Garnish

• Lemon wedges, for serving

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Spoon or spatula for tossing
• Oven

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these instructions carefully for perfectly roasted shrimp with crispy edges and tender centers.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easy.

Step 2: Toss Shrimp with Oil and Seasonings

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss gently until shrimp are evenly coated. This step ensures each shrimp absorbs the flavors and develops a light coating for roasting.

Step 3: Add Parmesan and Parsley

Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley to the shrimp. Toss gently until each piece is coated, taking care not to break the shrimp. The Parmesan will create a slightly crispy crust during roasting.

Step 4: Arrange Shrimp on Baking Sheet

Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overlapping so that each shrimp roasts evenly and develops slightly golden edges.

Step 5: Roast the Shrimp

Roast in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until shrimp turn pink and the edges are lightly golden. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking, which can make shrimp rubbery.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges. The citrus adds a refreshing, zesty finish that brightens the richness of the Parmesan and garlic.

Tips & Variations

Cooking Tips

• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melt, flavor, and crispiness.
• Pat shrimp dry before mixing with olive oil and seasonings to enhance crisp edges.
• Do not overcook; shrimp cook quickly and are tender when pink and opaque.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Butter alternative: Swap olive oil for melted butter for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
• Herb variations: Fresh basil, cilantro, or chives can be used instead of parsley.
• Cheese alternative: Pecorino Romano can replace Parmesan for a sharper, saltier bite.

Flavor Tweaks

• Sprinkle red pepper flakes for subtle heat.
• Add a dash of lemon zest along with parsley for added brightness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as an appetizer with dipping sauces like aioli or cocktail sauce.
• Make it a main course by pairing with pasta, roasted vegetables, or steamed rice.
• Top salads or grain bowls for a quick protein-packed meal.

Flavor Profile

These shrimp are savory, garlicky, and slightly smoky, with a light crisp from Parmesan and a tender interior. The smoked paprika adds warmth and depth, while fresh parsley and lemon brighten the flavors. Each bite balances richness and freshness, with the perfect hint of umami from the cheese.

Texture is equally important: a slightly crisp exterior contrasts beautifully with the juicy shrimp inside, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. The lemon wedge adds a burst of acidity that complements the richness of the Parmesan and garlic.

Nutritional Overview

Per serving (1/4 of recipe):

• Calories: 180
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Carbohydrates: 2 g
• Sugar: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Cholesterol: 160 mg

Dietary Notes: Low-carb, gluten-free, high-protein, seafood-friendly, nut-free.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep garlic and parsley in advance to save time.
• Partially assemble: Toss shrimp with olive oil and seasonings ahead of time; add Parmesan and parsley just before roasting.
• Storage: Leftover shrimp can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 1 day. For best texture, serve freshly roasted.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, but thaw completely and pat dry to remove excess water, which helps achieve crisp edges.

Q: Can these be grilled instead of roasted?
A: Absolutely. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill 2–3 minutes per side over medium heat.

Q: How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
A: Watch closely and remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking shrinks and toughens them.

Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, but roast in batches on separate baking sheets to ensure even cooking.

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Partially prepared shrimp can be kept in the fridge, but they are best served immediately after roasting for optimal texture.

Cooking Timeline (at a Glance)

Stage	Time
Prep	10 minutes
Cook	10 minutes
Total	20 minutes

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat shrimp dry before tossing to help Parmesan adhere and create a crisp crust.
• Toss gently to avoid breaking delicate shrimp.
• Arrange in a single layer to allow even roasting.
• Serve immediately for maximum flavor and texture; the Parmesan crust softens if left too long.

Storage & Freezing Guide

Storage

• Refrigerate leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 1 day.

Freezing

• Freezing is not recommended, as the shrimp texture will deteriorate and Parmesan crust may become soggy.

Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Parmesan Shrimp – Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes for heat.
2. Garlic Butter Shrimp – Replace olive oil with melted butter for richness.
3. Herb-Infused Shrimp – Mix in fresh basil, thyme, or cilantro for different flavor profiles.
4. Shrimp Pasta Topper – Serve roasted shrimp over fettuccine or spaghetti with a light drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.

Ingredient Spotlight

Large Shrimp

Choose shrimp that are peeled, deveined, and with tails on for easy handling and a beautiful presentation. Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp work best.

Parmesan Cheese

Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for better melting, flavor, and a slightly crisp texture. The nutty, savory quality of Parmesan elevates the shrimp without overpowering it.

Expanded Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is the perfect combination of simplicity, speed, and flavor. With just a few ingredients and 20 minutes, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a seafood restaurant. Crispy Parmesan edges, tender shrimp, and bright lemon make this recipe versatile, delicious, and visually appealing.

Whether served as an appetizer for a party, a main course for a weeknight dinner, or as a protein-packed addition to salads and pasta, these shrimp are sure to impress. Make it your go-to seafood recipe, share it with friends and family, and enjoy the ease and flavor of restaurant-quality shrimp in the comfort of your own home.

This recipe is easy, approachable, and endlessly adaptable, making it a must-have for anyone looking to elevate their weeknight seafood game.

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