Sometimes, you stumble upon a dish that’s like a little spark of culinary magic—and this garlic Parmesan baked shrimp is exactly that. It’s a warm hug for your taste buds, with a crispy cheese layer that’s like the first crunchy leaf of autumn underfoot. Honestly, I’m not sure if it’s the simplicity or the flavor explosion, but it’s become the dish I can’t stop making, especially after a long day when I just want something delicious without the fuss.
Steps
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a 13 by 9-inch baking dish to ensure even cooking.
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat. Add minced garlic to the butter, sautéing it for about 30 seconds to release its aroma. Alternatively, you can melt the butter with garlic in a microwave-safe bowl using a microwave.
- Stir freshly squeezed lemon juice into the melted butter and garlic mixture. Pour this buttery lemon mixture over the shrimp in the baking dish.
- Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences. Toss the shrimp to ensure they are evenly coated and spread them out in an even layer.
- Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven until they turn pink and opaque, which should take approximately 9 to 13 minutes. Once done, garnish with fresh parsley and serve the shrimp warm, spooning the sauce over them.
Ingredients
- Extra large raw shrimp (adjust bake time for large or jumbo sizes)
- Butter (either salted or unsalted)
- Fresh garlic cloves
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice
- Kosher salt
- Black pepper
- Red pepper flakes (adjust to taste or omit if preferred)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Nutritional Values
Calories 992 | Calories from Fat 468 | Fat 52g | Saturated Fat 28g | Cholesterol 1548mg | Sodium 1412mg | Potassium 492mg | Carbohydrates 4g | Protein 116g | Vitamin A 2140IU | Vitamin C 47.6mg | Calcium 860mg | Iron 12.4mg
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
- Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before baking. Rinse them under cold water to remove any ice crystals and pat them dry before placing them in the baking dish.
- What size shrimp should I use for this dish?
- Extra-large raw shrimp are recommended, but large or jumbo shrimp will also work well. Just be sure to adjust the baking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.
- How can I store leftover baked shrimp?
- Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so gently to maintain the shrimp’s texture and ensure they are heated to a safe temperature.
- Can I make this recipe spicier?
- Yes, you can add more red pepper flakes to increase the heat level. If you prefer milder flavors, you can omit the red pepper flakes altogether.
- What are some good side dishes to serve with baked shrimp?
- Baked shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, such as roasted vegetables, crusty bread, steamed vegetables, mashed cauliflower, pasta, or a fresh salad. Grains like rice or quinoa also complement the dish nicely.
Tips
- Use fresh garlic and lemon juice for the best flavor—avoid bottled lemon juice as it can compromise the dish’s brightness and freshness.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp as they bake; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Bake just until they turn pink and opaque, typically 9 to 13 minutes.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste, or omit them entirely for a milder version.
- For an extra burst of flavor, sprinkle some lemon zest over the shrimp before serving. This will enhance both the taste and visual appeal of the dish.
Equipment
- 13 by 9-inch Baking Dish – A baking sheet with a tall enough rim to contain the marinade.
- Small Saucepan – For melting butter and sautéing garlic.
- Microwave-Safe Bowl – As an alternative for melting butter with garlic in the microwave.
- Airtight Container – For storing seafood leftovers safely in the fridge.
