Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake Recipe

If you are craving a dish that perfectly balances rich, savory flavors with a comforting baked texture, this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is going to become your new go-to favorite. This recipe brings together succulent shrimp coated in fragrant garlic and smoky paprika, topped with a golden, crispy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s the ideal combination of simple ingredients whipped up into a dish that feels both elegant and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy night in or impressing friends at a dinner party, the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake promises to deliver on flavor and ease every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to build layers of flavor, texture, and color. You don’t need a pantry full of specialty items — just a handful of essentials that come together beautifully to create a mouthwatering meal.

• Shrimp, 500 g (1 lb) large, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, these juicy morsels cook quickly and soak up the garlic and seasoning wonderfully.
• Olive oil, 2 tbsp: Adds moisture and helps the shrimp stay tender while roasting.
• Garlic, 3 cloves minced: Infuses the shrimp with aromatic depth and that classic savory punch.
• Smoked paprika, ½ tsp: Brings a subtle smoky warmth that complements the parmesan perfectly.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
• Grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup: Creates a rich, nutty, and crispy topping that’s absolutely irresistible.
• Panko breadcrumbs, ¼ cup: Adds a light, crunchy texture to the cheesy topping.
• Dried parsley, 1 tsp: Brings a hint of herbaceous freshness and brightens the dish visually.
• Melted butter, 1 tbsp: Helps bind the topping and adds a luscious finish.
• Optional garnishes – lemon wedges and fresh parsley: These provide a zesty and vibrant contrast that elevates the whole dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F) and lightly greasing a baking dish. This sets the stage for the shrimp to cook evenly and prevents sticking, ensuring those beautiful golden edges we all love.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until each piece is evenly coated. This simple marinade elevates the shrimp’s natural sweetness and infuses it with bold savory notes that deepen while baking.

Step 3: Arrange Shrimp in the Dish

Lay the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in your prepared baking dish. Spreading them out ensures they cook through nicely and get that perfect slightly roasted texture without steaming.

Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Topping

Mix grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, dried parsley, and melted butter in a small bowl. This mixture will create a golden, crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp beneath.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the Parmesan topping evenly over the shrimp and slide the dish into the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque, with the topping crisp and golden. This step is where all the flavors meld together into a delicious harmony.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake

Garnishes

A garnish of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and fresh herbaceous notes. A squeeze of lemon juice brightens the dish and perfectly balances the rich, cheesy topping with a zip of acidity that makes every bite sing.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake pairs beautifully with a wide range of sides. Serve it alongside fluffy white rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or simple buttered pasta to soak up all the garlicky juices. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables will round out the meal with freshness and crunch. The versatility makes it a dream for any weeknight or special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

For an elegant touch, serve this shrimp bake in individual ramekins, allowing each guest to have their personal crispy crust delight. Alternatively, layer the shrimp over a bed of spaghetti or creamy risotto to turn this bake into a hearty pasta dish. Don’t hesitate to sprinkle extra Parmesan or fresh herbs for a gourmet finish that’s easy but impressive.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp remains tender, and the topping retains some of its crispness. Reheating gently will help maintain the best texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake in a suitable freezer-safe container for up to one month. Be sure to wrap well to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To bring the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake back to life, warm it in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes. This helps the topping regain crispness while ensuring the shrimp stays juicy. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the topping soggy and the shrimp rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture, which can make the bake watery.

Is there a substitute for Parmesan cheese?

If you’re out of Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a fantastic flavorful alternative. It has a similar salty, nutty taste that works well with this recipe.

Can I make this recipe spicy?

Definitely! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the shrimp seasoning for a little heat that complements the smoky paprika beautifully.

What can I do if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?

Regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers work in a pinch. Panko gives that signature light crunch, but any dry crumb topping will still add pleasant texture.

How long does the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake take to prepare and cook?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 25 minutes — just 10 minutes prepping and seasoning, then 12 to 15 minutes in the oven. It’s perfect when you want something flavorful but fast.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake. Its combination of easy-to-find ingredients, minimal prep, and irresistible flavors means it will quickly become a staple in your cooking repertoire. Give it a try and watch how it brings smiles around your table — warm, comforting, and loaded with so much deliciousness, it’s truly a dish to savor again and again.