Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This crispy garlic butter baked shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish that’s incredibly easy to make at home. Juicy, tender shrimp are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with a golden, crunchy Parmesan crust. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for a special occasion, this recipe delivers big on flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Garlic (minced)
- Butter (melted)
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Lemon juice
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Paprika
- Salt and black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare Shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Pour evenly over the shrimp.
- Add Crunchy Topping: In a separate bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and red pepper flakes (if using). Sprinkle this mixture over the shrimp.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and the topping is golden and crispy.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra lemon wedges. Enjoy!
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
- Cheesy Upgrade: Mix in a little mozzarella with the Parmesan for extra cheesiness.
- Low-Carb Option: Replace panko breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
- Herb Infusion: Add fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent soggy shrimp.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before baking.
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for a juicy texture.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute butter with olive oil and use dairy-free Parmesan.
What should I serve with baked shrimp?
It pairs well with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How do I keep the topping crispy?
Bake uncovered and broil for the last 2 minutes if needed.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Not recommended, as they can become overcooked and rubbery.
What can I use instead of panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or almond flour work as substitutes.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything and refrigerate, then bake when ready.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, if you replace panko with crushed pork rinds or almond flour.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes until golden and crispy.
Conclusion
Crispy garlic butter baked shrimp is a quick and easy dish that’s bursting with flavor. With a buttery garlic sauce and a crunchy Parmesan topping, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Serve it with your favorite sides, customize it with different seasonings, and enjoy a delicious seafood dinner in just 25 minutes!
Print
Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crispy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish made right at home! Juicy, tender shrimp are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and topped with a crispy Parmesan breadcrumb crust. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an elegant dinner, this easy recipe is packed with flavor!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Crispy Topping:
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with melted butter, garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and lemon juice. Arrange in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the Crispy Topping: In a small bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil until combined.
- Assemble & Bake: Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the shrimp. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until shrimp are opaque and topping is golden brown.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier topping, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges or over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Notes
- Swap panko for crushed crackers for a different crunch.
- Use pre-cooked shrimp for an even quicker meal—just reduce the bake time to 5–7 minutes.
- Serve with a side of roasted veggies or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Seafood
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American