The bold combination of roasted garlic and rich Parmesan transforms simple shrimp into a mouthwatering centerpiece dish. This recipe takes just 20 minutes and delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, these Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp are the perfect solution. The savory crispness of the cheese, the juicy tenderness of the shrimp, and the zesty lemon finish will keep everyone coming back for more.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
-
3 tablespoons olive oil
-
4 cloves garlic, minced
-
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
-
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
-
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
-
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
-
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
-
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
-
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
-
Add shrimp to the bowl and toss well to coat evenly.
-
Arrange shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
-
Sprinkle Parmesan cheese generously over the shrimp.
-
Roast in the preheated oven for 8–10 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
-
Switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes for a golden, crisp Parmesan topping.
-
Remove from oven and drizzle with fresh lemon juice.
-
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 260 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – The Ultimate Weeknight Winner
Few dishes strike the perfect balance between elegance and ease like Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp. This simple, oven-roasted seafood delight is quick to prepare, bursting with bold flavors, and versatile enough for both busy weeknights and upscale dinner parties.
Shrimp is one of the most beloved seafood options around the world. When you take high-quality shrimp and roast them in a blend of aromatic garlic, olive oil, and grated Parmesan, the result is nothing short of irresistible. This recipe transforms humble ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish in just 20 minutes. It’s the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, savory, and tangy, thanks to the finishing touch of lemon juice and fresh herbs.
The Magic Behind Roasting Shrimp
Most people associate shrimp with boiling, grilling, or pan-frying, but roasting is an underrated cooking method that brings out a whole new level of flavor and texture. High oven heat caramelizes the natural sugars in shrimp while creating a lightly crisp exterior, especially when topped with cheese like Parmesan.
Roasting also means less mess and less babysitting. Instead of standing over the stove, you simply prep your shrimp, arrange them on a tray, and let the oven do all the heavy lifting. Plus, you avoid overcooking, a common shrimp mishap, since roasting provides a gentle yet effective cooking method.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
For this recipe, large or jumbo shrimp are ideal. They hold up well under high heat and retain their juicy, tender texture. You can use either fresh or frozen shrimp, but if you’re opting for frozen, make sure they’re completely thawed and patted dry before cooking.
Peeled and deveined shrimp save time and create a better eating experience. If you’re using shell-on shrimp for added flavor, just be sure to remove them before serving (unless your audience loves getting hands-on with their food!).
Ingredient Highlights
Let’s break down the key ingredients that make this dish shine:
-
Garlic – The foundation of bold flavor in this dish. When roasted, garlic becomes fragrant, slightly sweet, and mellow.
-
Olive Oil – Provides richness and helps the shrimp caramelize while keeping them juicy.
-
Parmesan Cheese – Adds umami, saltiness, and a golden crust when roasted.
-
Smoked Paprika – Brings a subtle smokiness and color contrast to the dish.
-
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of cheese and oil.
-
Fresh Parsley – Adds freshness and visual appeal to the finished dish.
Why Garlic and Parmesan Work So Well Together
Garlic and Parmesan are both powerhouse ingredients with strong flavor profiles. Garlic offers a sharp, aromatic depth, while Parmesan delivers nuttiness, saltiness, and a savory richness known as umami. When roasted together, these two ingredients create a crispy, golden coating that enhances shrimp without overpowering them.
Flavor Pairings and Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile. You can serve Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp in a variety of ways:
-
On a bed of pasta: Try tossing the shrimp with linguine, angel hair, or even zucchini noodles. Add a splash of white wine or cream to create a sauce.
-
With crusty bread: Let that garlicky Parmesan oil soak into slices of toasted sourdough or ciabatta.
-
On a salad: Add the roasted shrimp on top of mixed greens, arugula, or kale with a light vinaigrette.
-
As an appetizer: Serve with toothpicks and a small bowl of garlic aioli or marinara sauce for dipping.
-
In tacos: Add to warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, avocado, and a lime crema for a fusion twist.
Ideal Side Dishes
Not sure what to serve alongside your shrimp? Here are a few ideas that pair beautifully:
-
Garlic butter rice or lemon herb couscous
-
Roasted asparagus or green beans
-
Creamy mashed potatoes or cauliflower mash
-
Caesar salad or Mediterranean chickpea salad
-
Sautéed spinach with pine nuts and garlic
Variations You Can Try
This recipe is a canvas for creativity. Here are some tasty twists:
-
Add breadcrumbs: Sprinkle panko or Italian breadcrumbs on top of the shrimp before roasting for an extra crunch.
-
Use different cheeses: Swap Parmesan for pecorino romano or asiago for a slightly different flavor profile.
-
Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne for a kick of heat.
-
Try herb mixes: Mix in Italian seasoning, thyme, or dill for a change of aromatic depth.
-
Add veggies: Roast cherry tomatoes or zucchini along with the shrimp for a complete one-pan meal.
Meal Prep and Storage Tips
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but it also works well for meal prep:
-
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2–3 days.
-
Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or until warmed through.
-
Avoid the microwave: While quick, microwaving can make the shrimp rubbery and the cheese soggy.
You can also prep the shrimp in advance by marinating them with the garlic, oil, and seasoning mixture. Keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to roast.
Health Benefits of Shrimp
Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight or looking to increase lean protein intake. It’s also a good source of selenium, vitamin B12, and iodine. Additionally, shrimp contains antioxidants like astaxanthin, which supports brain and heart health.
By roasting instead of deep-frying and using olive oil instead of butter, this recipe keeps things on the lighter, heart-healthy side without sacrificing flavor.
Hosting Tips
If you’re making this dish for a crowd, double or triple the ingredients and roast the shrimp in batches. Serve on a large platter with fresh herbs, lemon wedges, and an optional dipping sauce like garlic aioli, herbed yogurt, or even marinara for a party-friendly dish.
Want to elevate it even more? Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and oil while enhancing the seafood flavors.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is more than just another weeknight dinner – it’s a crowd-pleaser, a meal prep hero, and a dish that proves simplicity and sophistication can go hand in hand. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers the kind of satisfaction that only a well-balanced dish can.
It’s quick, customizable, and full of comforting, craveable flavors. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this roasted shrimp recipe deserves a spot in every home cook’s rotation.
So the next time you’re short on time but want something truly memorable, pop a tray of these golden beauties into the oven, squeeze over some lemon, and enjoy one of the easiest gourmet meals you’ll ever make.