If you’re on the hunt for a showstopping appetizer or effortless dinner that tastes like pure luxury but comes together in just minutes, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is about to become your new kitchen hero. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp enveloped in a garlicky olive oil bath, roasted until just-pink, then finished with a shower of nutty Parmesan and bright fresh parsley. Every bite is a perfect balance of savory, zesty, and a touch of heat. Whether you’re hosting a special gathering or just craving something spectacular on a weeknight, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best parts about Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is its simplicity—each ingredient packs a punch and works together to create irresistible flavor and texture. Here’s what you’ll need, along with a few helpful tips for success:
- Large shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined with tails on): Look for shrimp that are firm and translucent; keeping the tails on makes for an eye-catching presentation and easy handling.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): This helps the seasonings cling to the shrimp and ensures everything roasts up juicy and golden.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the shrimp with deep, savory flavor—don’t be shy!
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): The cheese melts into a golden, nutty crust that’s absolutely irresistible.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and a gorgeous pop of color.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon, optional): For those who love a subtle kick; you can always adjust to taste.
- Salt and black pepper (to taste): A pinch of each brings everything into delicious balance.
- Chopped fresh parsley (2 tablespoons): This brightens the whole dish and adds a fresh, herby finish.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): A final squeeze over the shrimp adds zing and amplifies all the other flavors.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or give it a light coating of olive oil. This helps with cleanup and ensures the shrimp won’t stick, so you get every last bit of that savory topping.
Step 2: Toss the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine your shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan, paprika, red pepper flakes if using, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper. Toss everything together until each shrimp is glistening and evenly coated. You’ll notice the aroma of garlic and cheese already hinting at what’s to come!
Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet
Lay the shrimp in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. This step is key—giving each shrimp a bit of breathing room helps them roast evenly and develop that signature golden finish. Don’t pile them up, or you’ll miss out on the crispy edges.
Step 4: Roast
Slide the tray into the oven and roast for 8 to 10 minutes. Keep a close eye—shrimp cook quickly! You’ll know they’re ready when they’re pink, opaque, and just cooked through. For a crispier texture, pop them under the broiler for the final 1 to 2 minutes.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
As soon as the Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp come out of the oven, sprinkle them with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top—it brightens everything beautifully.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp
Garnishes
For a beautiful and flavorful finish, I love to shower the roasted shrimp with plenty of fresh parsley and offer lemon wedges for squeezing. If you want to take it up a notch, a little extra sprinkle of Parmesan or a dusting of smoked paprika adds both color and flavor.
Side Dishes
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp pairs deliciously with a variety of sides. Try serving it alongside a simple arugula salad, roasted vegetables, or over a bed of creamy polenta. For a heartier meal, toss the shrimp with cooked pasta or pile them onto toasted baguette slices for a quick and elegant bruschetta.
Creative Ways to Present
These shrimp are stunning on a large platter as a party appetizer, especially with a small bowl of garlicky aioli or marinara for dipping. For individual servings, skewer the shrimp and serve them upright in a cocktail glass with lemon wedges, or arrange them over a colorful salad for a vibrant, protein-packed lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They maintain their flavor beautifully, though the texture is best enjoyed fresh.
Freezing
While shrimp can be frozen, the roasted coating may lose a bit of its crispness after thawing. If you need to freeze leftovers, spread them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Use within 2 months for best flavor and texture.
Reheating
To reheat, arrange the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, just until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery; a quick oven reheat keeps them tender and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before tossing with the other ingredients. This helps them roast evenly and soak up all that garlicky, cheesy goodness.
What if I don’t have fresh Parmesan?
Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal for melting and flavor, but pre-grated or even shredded Parmesan will work in a pinch. Avoid the powdered kind in the green can, as it won’t melt the same way.
Is Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp spicy?
The dish has a gentle warmth thanks to the paprika and optional red pepper flakes, but it’s not overly spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, simply leave out the red pepper flakes—or add more if you love a kick!
Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp ahead of time?
You can toss the shrimp with the marinade a few hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to roast. For the best texture and flavor, roast them just before serving.
What’s the best way to serve this for a crowd?
Serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp on a large platter with plenty of lemon wedges and toothpicks for easy grabbing. They’re always a hit at parties and disappear fast!
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp recipe is proof that a handful of simple ingredients can create something truly spectacular. It’s quick, versatile, and guaranteed to wow anyone who tries it. I hope you give it a go—your dinner table (and your taste buds) will thank you!
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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a quick and flavorful appetizer featuring large shrimp tossed in a mixture of olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then roasted until perfectly tender and juicy. This easy-to-make dish combines savory cheese, a hint of heat from paprika and red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley for a delicious, low-carb, and gluten-free treat. Ideal for gatherings or a simple weeknight snack, it serves up a satisfying burst of flavor with every bite.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined with tails on
Seasoning & Sauce
- 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
Finishing Touches
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the shrimp are evenly coated with the marinade.
- Arrange Shrimp: Spread the seasoned shrimp out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded for even roasting.
- Roast Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the shrimp for 8 to 10 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink, become opaque, and are cooked through.
- Add Parsley and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over the shrimp for a fresh, zesty finish.
Notes
- If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce the baking time to 4 to 5 minutes to prevent overcooking.
- For a crispier texture, broil the shrimp for the last 1 to 2 minutes of cooking but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes according to your desired spice level or omit for a milder flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
