This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in less than 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp are coated in a rich blend of butter, olive oil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, then baked under a golden layer of panko breadcrumbs. The result is a dish that’s crisp on top, tender inside, and bursting with garlicky aroma — perfect for family dinners or effortless entertaining.
It’s one of those recipes that proves simple ingredients, when treated right, can create magic on your plate. Let’s dive into how to make this easy yet elegant seafood dish that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
- Ready in just 25 minutes — ideal for busy weeknights.
- Made with everyday pantry ingredients you probably already have.
- Uses one baking dish, keeping cleanup quick and easy.
- Perfectly balanced between crispy panko topping and tender shrimp.
- Great for both casual dinners and special occasions.
This recipe came to life during a cooking session with my six-year-old daughter. We wanted something simple yet impressive, and what began as a kitchen experiment became our family’s go-to seafood favorite.
Ingredients
-
1 pound medium shrimp, uncooked, peeled, and deveined
Look for plump, fresh shrimp with a mild ocean scent for best results. -
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Adds richness and helps create that golden-brown finish. -
¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Freshly grated cheese melts better and gives a deeper flavor than pre-grated ones. -
2 tablespoons olive oil
Prevents butter from burning and adds a fruity depth. -
4 cloves garlic, minced
The heart of this recipe — it infuses every bite with irresistible aroma. -
½ cup panko breadcrumbs
These Japanese-style crumbs deliver that signature crispy texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature ensures your shrimp cook quickly without drying out while allowing the topping to crisp perfectly. Lightly grease your baking dish with cooking spray for easy cleanup later.
Prepare the Shrimp Mixture
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with melted butter, grated Parmesan, olive oil, and minced garlic. Toss gently to coat every shrimp evenly. The mixture might look slightly oily — that’s good! It ensures your shrimp bake up juicy and flavorful.
Arrange and Top
Spread the coated shrimp evenly in your prepared baking dish. Avoid overcrowding — too many shrimp layered together can lead to steaming instead of roasting. Sprinkle panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top, covering the shrimp with a light, even layer.
Bake to Perfection
Bake uncovered for 15 to 18 minutes or until the shrimp turn bright pink and the panko topping is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on it during the final minutes to prevent over-browning. The shrimp should look opaque and tender when done.
You Should Know
- Each serving contains about 309 calories and 22 grams of protein.
- The recipe is low-carb, especially if you use minimal breadcrumbs.
- You can prepare it ahead of time — refrigerate the shrimp mixture and bake when ready.
- It’s versatile: serve as a main course, appetizer, or topping for pasta or rice.
One simple upgrade: use fresh Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-grated kind. It may seem small, but the flavor and texture difference are remarkable. Freshly grated cheese melts smoothly and gives the dish its signature creamy richness.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with many sides, depending on your mood or occasion:
- With pasta: Serve over linguine or angel hair to soak up the buttery garlic sauce.
- With vegetables: Pair with roasted broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
- With grains: Spoon over rice, couscous, or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
- Light option: Serve atop zucchini noodles or alongside a lemon-dressed arugula salad.
For a restaurant-style touch, garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley and a squeeze of fresh lemon before serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
While best served fresh, you can make parts of this recipe ahead to save time:
- Prep in advance: Combine shrimp, garlic, butter, oil, and Parmesan up to 4 hours before baking. Store in the fridge until ready to cook.
- Add breadcrumbs just before baking to keep them crispy.
- Storing leftovers: Keep in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
- Reheat gently in a 300°F oven for about 5 minutes — avoid microwaving, which can make shrimp rubbery.
Perfect Pairings
Pair this dish with beverages that enhance its buttery and garlicky notes:
- Wine: A crisp unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio balances the richness.
- Beer: A light wheat beer complements the garlic and Parmesan without overpowering them.
- Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with a twist of lemon refreshes the palate beautifully.
Pro Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before mixing to help the coating adhere and prevent sogginess.
- Zest a lemon into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, citrusy note.
- Use fresh garlic — pre-minced versions lack the vibrant aroma.
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and drain well before cooking.
- Don’t overbake — shrimp cook fast! Pull them out as soon as they turn opaque.
FAQs
How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?
Bake only until the shrimp turn pink and opaque — about 15–18 minutes at 425°F. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so watch closely near the end.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but the texture will be softer. Panko breadcrumbs stay crisp and light, giving this dish its signature crunch.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just thaw them completely under cold running water or overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
What can I serve with garlic Parmesan shrimp?
It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, roasted veggies, or even fresh salad. For a complete meal, add a crusty piece of bread to soak up the sauce.
How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter mixture before baking for a gentle heat kick.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes — substitute butter with olive oil and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative for a similar flavor.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Always use good-quality shrimp for the best taste and texture.
- Fresh Parmesan and garlic truly elevate this dish.
- If serving guests, bake in small individual ramekins for an elegant presentation.
- For a touch of luxury, sprinkle with grated Pecorino Romano before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Delicious Garlic Parmesan Shrimp proves that gourmet doesn’t have to mean complicated. With just a few ingredients and a single pan, you can create a dish that feels indulgent and comforting at the same time. The golden panko crust, buttery garlic sauce, and tender shrimp make every bite unforgettable.
Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself to something special, this recipe delivers rich flavor and elegance — fast.