If you’ve been searching for the perfect balance of bold flavor and effortless preparation, this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a garlicky, cheesy embrace with just the right hint of spice and a splash of freshness from parsley and lemon. It’s a dish that brings together simple ingredients in a way that feels both sophisticated and utterly comforting, perfect for weeknight dinners or when entertaining friends. Once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to favorite that you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is what makes or breaks this dish, but the best part is how straightforward and accessible they are. Each ingredient plays an essential role in flavor, texture, or color, creating a harmonious and inviting plate.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on: The star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base that absorbs all the delicious seasonings.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps everything roast to perfection without sticking.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a robust, aromatic garlic flavor that is absolutely irresistible.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a sharp, salty element that crisps slightly while roasting, elevating the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds just a gentle kick to keep things exciting without overpowering the shrimp.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a splash of green for visual appeal.
- Lemon wedges for serving: Their bright acidity cuts through the richness and adds a refreshing finishing touch.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the shrimp go in. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly to keep those shrimp from sticking—this will also make cleanup a breeze!
Step 2: Toss the Shrimp with Flavors
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and black pepper. Toss everything so each shrimp is beautifully coated in that flavorful mixture, making sure you don’t miss a single piece.
Step 3: Arrange and Roast
Lay the shrimp out in a single layer on your baking sheet. Spacing them out helps them cook evenly and ensures they roast up nicely instead of steaming. Pop them into the oven and roast for 8 to 10 minutes—just enough time for the shrimp to turn pink, opaque, and completely irresistible.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp to add a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side so everyone can add a squeeze of brightness just before eating.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is not only visually appealing but also refreshes the palate against the richness of the Parmesan and garlic. A squeeze of lemon juice adds welcome acidity that brightens every bite, cutting through the savory flavors in the best way possible.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, a crisp green salad, or fluffy rice to soak up those garlicky juices. For a low-carb meal, try serving it with creamy cauliflower mash or zucchini noodles for a light yet satisfying plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Impress guests by serving the shrimp over toasted baguette slices as bite-sized crostini, or toss them into a vibrant pasta salad for a delightful main course. You can also skewer the roasted shrimp for a fun appetizer at parties—they look gorgeous and are easy to enjoy standing up!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keeping them chilled ensures they remain tasty and ready for a quick reheated snack or addition to another meal.
Freezing
If you want to save this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe for longer, freeze the cooked shrimp in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to one month. When ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat or in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the shrimp rubbery. Heating slowly will keep the shrimp tender and delicious, almost like they’re freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before tossing with the seasonings to avoid excess moisture that could prevent proper roasting.
What if I don’t have Parmesan cheese on hand?
You can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste or even a mild Asiago cheese to keep that cheesy component alive in the dish.
How spicy is this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth but aren’t overwhelming. Feel free to adjust the amount or leave them out if you prefer milder flavors.
Can I prepare this recipe on the grill?
Yes, grilling the shrimp adds a lovely smoky flavor. Use a grill-safe pan or skewers and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It sure is! All the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for those avoiding gluten without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe that makes every gathering or cozy dinner feel a little more festive. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy night yet impressive enough to serve to guests with pride. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a try—once you experience the fresh garlic, melted Parmesan, and perfectly roasted shrimp combo, it’ll undoubtedly become a treasured staple in your kitchen.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a quick and flavorful appetizer featuring large shrimp coated in a savory mixture of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then roasted to perfection. This easy-to-make dish delivers tender, juicy shrimp with a slight hint of heat from paprika and optional red pepper flakes, garnished with fresh parsley and served with lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Toss Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with all the seasonings and oil.
- Arrange Shrimp: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they aren’t overlapping to ensure even roasting.
- Roast Shrimp: Roast the shrimp in the oven for 8 to 10 minutes, or until they turn pink, opaque, and are cooked through. Avoid overcooking as shrimp can become rubbery.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor, then serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the shrimp.
Notes
- You can use pre-cooked shrimp for convenience, but reduce the baking time to 4 to 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
- For a crispier texture, switch the oven to broil and broil the shrimp for the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially if your Parmesan cheese is salty, to avoid over-salting.
