Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp

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Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is a delightful dish that offers a burst of savory flavors in every bite. The shrimp are perfectly roasted, ensuring a tender texture while being enveloped in a fragrant blend of garlic and parmesan. The combination of these ingredients creates an irresistible umami-rich taste that’s both bold and satisfying. With a hint of freshness from the herbs and a touch of lemon to brighten it all up, this dish strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness.

This recipe holds a special place for me, as it’s one of those dishes that’s easy to make yet feels fancy enough for a special occasion. The scent of garlic sizzling in butter is one of those smells that fills the kitchen and makes everything feel warm and inviting. When the shrimp are roasted to golden perfection, they become a crispy, flavorful bite that’s complemented perfectly by the parmesan crust.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, but it can also shine as an appetizer at a dinner party. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether served with pasta, over a bed of greens, or simply with a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices, this dish will never disappoint. If you’re looking for a meal that combines elegance and comfort in one, this is the recipe to try!

Perfect for:

• Quick and easy weeknight dinners
• Seafood lovers
• Low-carb or gluten-free meals
• Elegant appetizers
• Family gatherings or casual get-togethers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp will become your new favorite dish:

• Flavor-Packed: A tantalizing combination of garlic, butter, and Parmesan that coats the shrimp perfectly.
• Fast and Simple: With minimal prep and only 10-12 minutes in the oven, this dish is ready in no time.
• Healthy and Light: Low in carbs and gluten-free, this recipe is a great option for a light yet satisfying meal.
• Versatile: Perfect on its own, with pasta, or in a salad—this shrimp works for any occasion.
• Restaurant-Quality: You’ll feel like you’re dining at a high-end restaurant, but with much less effort.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Preparation Time: 8 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 6g, Fat: 18g

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (or 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Large Shrimp: Fresh, jumbo shrimp work best as they provide a meaty bite and absorb the flavors beautifully.
• Garlic and Parmesan: The key ingredients that make the dish bold and flavorful, infusing the shrimp with a savory, cheesy richness.
• Butter and Olive Oil: A combination of these fats ensures the shrimp stay moist and tender while roasting.
• Lemon: Adds a burst of freshness to balance the richness of the cheese and butter.
• Herbs: Oregano and parsley bring an earthy note that complements the dish’s garlic and Parmesan flavors.

Step-by-Step

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
2. Season the Shrimp: In a large bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, melted butter, minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Coat with Parmesan:

3. Add the Parmesan: Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp, making sure each shrimp is coated in the mixture. Add the dried oregano and parsley, and toss gently to ensure the shrimp are well-seasoned.

Roast the Shrimp:

4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Spread the shrimp evenly on the prepared baking sheet, arranging them in a single layer.
5. Roast the Shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the oven and roast the shrimp for 10-12 minutes, or until they are opaque, firm, and lightly golden. The shrimp should be pink and slightly curled.

Serve:

6. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp are done, remove them from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra citrusy punch.

How to Serve

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp can be served in a variety of delicious ways:

• As an Appetizer: Serve with toothpicks or on a small platter for a crowd-pleasing starter.
• With Pasta: Toss the shrimp with your favorite pasta for a quick and satisfying main dish.
• On a Salad: Add the roasted shrimp to a fresh salad for a light yet protein-packed meal.
• In a Wrap: Use the shrimp in a tortilla wrap or soft taco for a fun, handheld meal.
• With Rice or Quinoa: Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more substantial side dish.

Additional Tips

For the best Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Keep an eye on them and remove from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Use Fresh Shrimp: While frozen shrimp will work, fresh shrimp yield the best texture and flavor.
• Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more garlic to the butter mixture to amp up the flavor.
• Add Red Pepper Flakes: For a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the garlic butter mixture before roasting.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while the shrimp are juicy and tender.

Recipe Variations

Here are 10 variations to put your own twist on Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp:

1. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili to the garlic mixture for some heat.
2. Cajun Shrimp: Use Cajun seasoning in place of oregano for a spicy, bold flavor.
3. Herb-Infused Shrimp: Add a mix of fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to the garlic butter for an herbal touch.
4. Garlic Lemon Shrimp: Increase the lemon juice and zest for a more pronounced citrus flavor.
5. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream to the garlic butter sauce for a creamy twist.
6. Bacon-Wrapped Shrimp: Wrap the shrimp in bacon before roasting for a smoky, savory addition.
7. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Scampi: Toss the shrimp with a bit of white wine and lemon juice to create a light scampi sauce.
8. Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for a fun, party-friendly presentation.
9. Pesto Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Drizzle pesto over the shrimp before serving for an herby, fresh addition.
10. Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Bake: Top the shrimp with a handful of mozzarella cheese and bake until bubbly for a cheesy, indulgent version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the seasoned shrimp before roasting. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, roast straight from frozen, adding an extra 3-4 minutes to the cooking time.
• Storage: Store leftover roasted shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Special Equipment

To make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp, these tools will help:

1. Baking Sheet: A large, rimmed baking sheet for roasting the shrimp evenly.
2. Parchment Paper or Aluminum Foil: Lining the baking sheet helps with cleanup and prevents sticking.
3. Garlic Press: For easily mincing garlic without the hassle.
4. Basting Brush: Use for spreading the garlic butter mixture on the shrimp evenly.
5. Tongs: Great for flipping or arranging the shrimp in a single layer.
6. Zester: For easily zesting the lemon.
7. Sharp Knife: To chop fresh herbs or garnish.
8. Grater: A fine grater works best for shredding Parmesan cheese.
9. Serving Platter: A nice platter for presentation, especially if serving as an appetizer.
10. Measuring Spoons: For accuracy in seasoning the dish to perfection.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, frozen shrimp will work, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before using.
2. Can I make this dish in advance?
   While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and season them ahead of time, then roast them right before serving.
3. Can I use other types of cheese?
   Yes, mozzarella or Asiago cheese can also work well in place of Parmesan.
4. How do I know when the shrimp are done?
   The shrimp will be opaque and slightly curled when fully cooked. They should not be translucent.
5. Can I cook the shrimp on a grill instead?
   Absolutely! Skewer the shrimp and grill for 2-3 minutes per side for a smoky flavor.
6. Can I use a different fat instead of butter?
   You can use ghee or a plant-based butter substitute for a different flavor profile.
7. What’s a good side dish to pair with this?
   A light salad, roasted vegetables, or garlic bread would all pair wonderfully with Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp.
8. Can I make this recipe with other seafood?
   Yes, scallops, lobster tails, or fish fillets can be used in place of shrimp.
9. How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
   Watch the shrimp closely and remove them from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
10. Can I make this a low-carb dish?
    Yes, this recipe is already low-carb and gluten-free, so it’s perfect for a keto or low-carb diet.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is an outstanding dish that delivers bold, savory flavors in every bite. The shrimp, perfectly roasted to golden perfection, are bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce, and the sharpness of Parmesan adds a delightful depth of flavor. The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a mouthwatering, umami-packed coating that’s impossible to resist.

What makes this recipe exceptional is its simplicity and speed—ready in just a few minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or appetizer that will impress anyone at your table. The light, crisp edges of the shrimp combined with the creamy garlic sauce create a heavenly balance that will leave you coming back for more. Whether paired with a fresh salad, a side of pasta, or enjoyed on its own, Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp will quickly become a favorite. I can’t wait for you to experience this flavorful dish! Be sure to share your tasty creations with me on social media—I’d love to see how you enjoy it! Savor each bite!