Description
This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp coated in a savory blend of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, lemon zest, and fresh parsley, baked to perfection in melted butter. It’s a quick and easy dish perfect for serving over rice or with crusty bread for dipping, offering a delightful combination of rich, buttery, and zesty flavors.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Shrimp
- 2 pounds raw shrimp, 26/30 count, thawed, peeled and deveined with tails on (preferably Icy Ocean brand)
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 teaspoons paprika (regular or sweet)
- 1/2 of a lemon (zest only)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped or cut small
Other Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons salted butter, melted
- 1/2 of a lemon (juice only, for serving)
- Cooking spray (for greasing the baking sheet)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold running water. Ensure both the inner and outer veins are fully removed by loosening them with a small knife or skewer and pulling them out. Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and wash your hands.
- Make the Cheese Mixture: On a dinner plate, combine the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and paprika. Rinse and pat dry the lemon, then zest half of it using a zester or grater and add the zest to the cheese mixture. Rinse and dry the parsley, chop it finely, and incorporate it into the cheese blend. Use a fork to mix everything well.
- Melt the Butter: In a microwave-safe measuring cup, melt the salted butter to make dipping easier.
- Coat the Shrimp: Set up an assembly line with shrimp first, then butter, the cheese mixture, and the baking sheet. Dip a few shrimp at a time into the melted butter, holding them by the tail, then dredge them in the cheese mixture, coating both sides completely. Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat until all shrimp are coated.
- Bake the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, but still tender.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven, squeeze the juice of the remaining half lemon over the top, and serve immediately. Enjoy over rice for a gluten-free meal or with crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to four days.
Notes
- Ensure the shrimp is fully deveined for the best texture and taste.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for optimal flavor and melting quality.
- For an extra citrusy kick, add more lemon zest or juice according to taste.
- If you prefer spicier shrimp, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the cheese mixture.
- Leftover shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consumed within four days.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free when served over rice; avoid bread if strict gluten avoidance is required.
