Looking for a quick and flavorful dish that feels fancy without the effort? This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp recipe delivers all that and more. With juicy shrimp coated in garlic-infused olive oil, a golden Parmesan crust, and fresh herbs, this meal is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu entertaining.
You only need a handful of ingredients and about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s low-carb, high-protein, and endlessly versatile. Whether served over pasta, on a salad, or as a simple appetizer, this dish shines with bold, fresh flavor in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything you need to bring this dish together:
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined – 1 pound
- Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
- Garlic, minced – 4 cloves
- Parmesan cheese, grated – ½ cup
- Italian seasoning – 1 teaspoon
- Salt – ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh parsley, chopped – 2 tablespoons
- Juice of 1 lemon
Make sure to use large shrimp for the best texture and bite. The bigger the shrimp, the juicier the result after roasting.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature ensures that the shrimp cook quickly and develop a nice, slightly crispy exterior.
Prepare the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, add the following:
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves minced garlic
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Stir well to combine. The mixture should be thick, aromatic, and slightly sticky—perfect for coating the shrimp evenly.
Toss the Shrimp
Add the cleaned and deveined shrimp to the bowl. Use a spoon or your hands to toss the shrimp in the garlic-Parmesan mixture until they’re well coated on all sides.
Make sure the shrimp are patted dry with a paper towel before adding to the bowl—this helps the coating stick and roast better.
Arrange on a Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with olive oil. Spread the coated shrimp in a single layer, making sure they’re not touching too closely. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of roasting, which would reduce crispiness.
Roast to Perfection
Place the tray in the preheated oven and roast for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque with golden-brown edges. The Parmesan will melt and form a crispy coating, while the shrimp cook through quickly.
Keep an eye on them—shrimp can overcook in seconds, and you want them juicy, not rubbery.
Finish with Freshness
Once out of the oven, immediately sprinkle the shrimp with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and the juice of one lemon. The herbs add brightness, and the lemon juice lifts the entire dish with a fresh citrusy kick.
Serve immediately while hot.
Serving Ideas
This garlic Parmesan shrimp can be served in several ways:
- As an appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and lemon wedges for a classy party bite.
- With pasta: Toss over angel hair pasta with a little extra olive oil and lemon zest.
- In tacos: Add to warm tortillas with shredded cabbage and a drizzle of garlic aioli.
- Over rice or quinoa: Create a nourishing bowl with grains and steamed vegetables.
- On salad: Use as a protein topper on Caesar salad or a Mediterranean mix.
This versatility makes it a great go-to for whatever ingredients you have on hand.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast – Ready in under 20 minutes
- Flavorful – Loaded with garlic, herbs, and sharp Parmesan
- Healthy – Low in carbs and high in protein
- Elegant – Looks fancy, but is incredibly simple
- Flexible – Works as a main, appetizer, or meal prep option
Customization Tips
Make it Spicy
Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade if you like a little heat.
Use Fresh Herbs
If you have fresh thyme or basil, chop and mix them in with or instead of parsley for an herbaceous twist.
Add Veggies
Roast vegetables like cherry tomatoes or asparagus alongside the shrimp for a one-pan meal.
Swap the Cheese
Try using Romano or Asiago cheese for a slightly different flavor profile.
Storage and Reheating
How to Store Leftovers
Place cooled shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Shrimp are best eaten fresh but can still taste great after a short chill.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes
- Skillet: Reheat in a pan over medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side
- Microwave: Use short 20-second bursts to prevent overcooking
Avoid reheating too long, as shrimp can become tough and rubbery.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use fresh garlic: It gives the best flavor compared to jarred or pre-minced.
- Don’t skip drying the shrimp: Wet shrimp won’t crisp properly.
- Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well and can clump.
- Serve immediately: The shrimp are best hot and crispy from the oven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and dry them thoroughly before using. Excess water will make the coating soggy.
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp quickly?
Use a small paring knife or a shrimp deveiner tool. Cut a shallow slit along the back and remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or tool.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes, shaking halfway through. They come out extra crispy this way.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and fits well into a keto or low-carb lifestyle.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Use real, freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Avoid the powdered kind in a can, as it won’t melt properly and may affect the texture.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a total weeknight winner. Fast, flavorful, and foolproof, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen—whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd. Serve it fresh and hot for the best taste, and don’t forget that final splash of lemon juice to brighten it all up.