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Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Golden, garlicky, and irresistibly buttery — a quick seafood dish that feels like a seaside indulgence.There’s something special about the smell of garlic and butter mingling in the oven. It fills the kitchen with that comforting aroma that says dinner’s about to be amazing.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • 1/2 tsp paprika – adds warmth and color
  • 1/2 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder – subtle sweetness
  • 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional for heat
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish
  • Juice of 1/2 lemon – brightens the flavor

Method
 

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Baking Dish
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium baking dish with butter or line it with parchment paper for quick cleanup.
  2. If your shrimp were frozen, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry — moisture can prevent that nice golden top.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Coating
  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, sea salt, onion powder, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if you like a little kick).
  2. Add the shrimp and toss well until every piece is coated in that rich, buttery mixture. The butter should lightly cling to the shrimp — not pool at the bottom.
Step 3: Arrange and Add the Parmesan
  1. Spread the shrimp evenly in your prepared baking dish, laying them flat so they cook evenly. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese generously over the top — this will form that deliciously golden crust once baked.
  2. For extra flavor, drizzle a tiny bit more melted butter over the cheese before baking.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and firm to the touch.
  2. If you want that irresistibly crisp, golden finish, switch your oven to broil for 1–2 minutes right at the end. Keep a close eye — Parmesan can go from golden to burnt quickly!
Step 5: Finish & Serve
  1. Remove from the oven, and immediately squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp. The citrus will brighten the buttery flavors beautifully.
  2. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp when possible: The texture is firmer and sweeter than frozen.
Dry before seasoning: Extra moisture can make the shrimp steam instead of roast.
Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt or brown the same way.
Add breadcrumbs: For a crunchier top, mix 1–2 tbsp breadcrumbs with the Parmesan before sprinkling.