Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp

This recipe combines juicy, roasted shrimp with a savory blend of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. The addition of fresh lemon juice and parsley at the end gives a refreshing burst of flavor, making it a perfect appetizer or light main course. Serve this deliciously crispy, garlicky shrimp over pasta, rice, or alongside a fresh green salad for an impressive, quick-to-prepare meal that’s sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only about 10 minutes in the oven, making it a breeze to whip up.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for weeknight dinners, parties, or as a holiday appetizer, this versatile dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Garlic and Parmesan Goodness: With the robust flavors of garlic and Parmesan, these shrimp pack a punch that’s both savory and aromatic.
Low-Carb and Gluten-Free: Ideal for anyone following a low-carb or gluten-free diet, this dish is flavorful without added carbs.

Key Ingredients:

Shrimp: Large shrimp, peeled and deveined, but with the tails left on, are ideal. The tails add a bit of flavor and make the shrimp easier to pick up if served as an appetizer.
Olive Oil: Olive oil helps the shrimp roast evenly and prevents them from sticking. You can substitute with melted butter for a richer flavor if desired.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic provides the best flavor, but garlic powder works if you’re in a pinch.
Italian Seasoning: This blend adds a subtle herbiness. You can make your own by combining dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives a crispier, more intense flavor. Avoid using pre-shredded cheese, which doesn’t melt as well.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice adds brightness, balancing the richness of the garlic and Parmesan. Add as much or as little as you like for your preferred level of acidity.
Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a light herbal finish. Cilantro can work as a substitute if you prefer.

Complete list of ingredients with quantities and instructions is located in the recipe card below

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Set Oven Temperature: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high temperature will roast the shrimp quickly and evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Mixture

Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tsp minced garlic
1 tsp Italian seasoning
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Coat the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp in the mixture until they’re well-coated with garlic, Parmesan, and seasonings.

Step 3: Arrange and Roast the Shrimp

Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Arrange Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, without overlapping.
Roast: Bake for about 10 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the Parmesan is golden. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

Add Lemon Juice: Remove from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.
Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle with 2 tbsp chopped parsley for color and freshness.

Step 5: Serve

Transfer and Serve: Place the shrimp on a serving platter and serve hot. They’re great as an appetizer or paired with pasta, rice, or salad.

Serving Suggestions:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp can be enjoyed in a variety of ways! Here are some ideas to round out your meal:

As an Appetizer: Serve these shrimp with cocktail forks for easy picking, alongside a dipping sauce like garlic aioli or marinara for added flavor.
Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp with angel hair or linguine and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. You could even add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a dash of red pepper flakes.
With Rice: Serve over a bed of rice pilaf or lemony couscous to soak up any leftover sauce.
On a Salad: Place the shrimp on a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a lighter option.
With Crusty Bread: Pair with a slice of warm crusty bread to scoop up every last bit of the garlicky, cheesy goodness.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Refrigerating Leftovers: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making them even more delicious!
Freezing: While shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze them for up to 1 month. Lay them out on a tray in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 5 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Additions:

Add a Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the shrimp mixture before roasting.
Swap the Cheese: Try grated Pecorino Romano for a saltier, sharper flavor, or use a combination of Parmesan and mozzarella for added cheesiness.
Butter-Garlic Shrimp: Substitute melted butter for the olive oil for a richer taste. This variation pairs well with pasta or as a standalone appetizer.
Herbed Garlic Shrimp: Mix in a bit of fresh rosemary or thyme along with the parsley for an herby aroma and flavor boost.
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers: For a fun twist, thread the shrimp onto skewers and roast as directed. This presentation is ideal for parties or cookouts.
Add Vegetables: Roasted cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or bell peppers make great additions. Just toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast on the same sheet with the shrimp.

Conclusion:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a dish that strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and bold flavor. With just a handful of ingredients, you get an elegant, satisfying dish that’s versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re serving these shrimp as a quick weeknight dinner or a sophisticated appetizer, this recipe is sure to impress.

Make a batch and savor the rich, savory goodness—this is one of those recipes that’s bound to become a favorite!