Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. The succulent shrimp, perfectly baked in a rich garlic and parmesan butter sauce, create a heavenly aroma that fills your kitchen and draws everyone to the table. This dish offers a fantastic balance of flavors, featuring the sharpness of parmesan, aromatic garlic, and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. The tender texture of the shrimp pairs beautifully with the savory coatings, making it an irresistible addition to your seafood repertoire. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, special gatherings, or as a show-stopping appetizer, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 500 g large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen shrimp will work, but ensure they are fully defrosted if using frozen.
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced: Fresh garlic imparts a robust flavor that elevates the dish.
• 60 g unsalted butter, melted: Unsalted butter allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• 40 g freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese provides a rich, creamy texture and enhances flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: This blend adds a hint of herbal complexity to the shrimp.
• 0.5 teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a mild warmth and vibrant color to the dish.
• Salt, to taste: Enhances all the flavors—add according to your preference.
• Black pepper, to taste: Freshly ground black pepper adds a bit of heat and flavor depth.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a bright finish to the dish.
• Lemon wedges, for serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the flavors and adds a refreshing brightness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 175°C and lightly grease a suitable baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Arrange the shrimp in a single, even layer in the prepared baking dish without overlapping. This ensures even cooking.
3. In a bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
4. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, ensuring each shrimp is well coated for maximum flavor.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese generously over the shrimp. Season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
6. Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until they are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
7. Once done, garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 240 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tips: For extra flavor, consider marinating the shrimp in the garlic butter mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze uncooked shrimp in the garlic mixture before baking. Thaw and cook when ready to use.
• Variations: Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or substitute the parsley with fresh basil for a different herbaceous touch.

FAQ

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1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed before preparing.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for extra heat.

3. What can I serve with Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp?
This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

4. Is it necessary to devein shrimp?
While it’s not mandatory, deveining shrimp improves both appearance and texture.

5. How can I ensure my shrimp are perfectly cooked?
Watch for the color change; shrimp should be pink and opaque when fully cooked.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prepare the shrimp and garlic mixture earlier and bake them right before serving.

People Also Ask

1. What is the best way to cook shrimp?
The best way to cook shrimp is to bake, grill, or sauté them quickly until they are pink and opaque.

2. How do I know when shrimp are done cooking?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, typically after 3-5 minutes of cooking.

3. Can I substitute garlic with garlic powder?
Yes, you can use garlic powder, but fresh garlic gives a stronger flavor.

4. What type of shrimp is best for baking?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best as they hold up well during baking.

5. How long can I keep cooked shrimp in the fridge?
Cooked shrimp can last in the fridge for about 2-3 days.

6. Is Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp low in calories?
It’s a moderately calorie dish, and you can adjust ingredients for a lighter version by using less butter and cheese.

7. Can I use other cheeses for this recipe?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar, but the flavor will vary.

8. What is the difference between shrimp and prawns?
Shrimp and prawns are similar but differ in gill structure and anatomy; shrimp are often smaller than prawns.

Conclusion

Try making this Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp the next time you want a simple yet elegant dish that everyone will love. It is not only a fantastic choice for seafood lovers but also an impressive dish for entertaining guests. For more delicious shrimp recipes, you might enjoy this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp Recipe or explore variations with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp. Happy cooking!