There’s something undeniably comforting about the aroma of garlic and Parmesan roasting together in the oven.
The first time I made this Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp, it was for a cozy dinner at home—and let’s just say there were no leftovers.
It’s quick, flavorful, and makes you feel like you’ve whipped up something gourmet without breaking a sweat.
Why I Love This Recipe
I love how this dish comes together in under 30 minutes yet feels so elegant and indulgent.
The shrimp stay incredibly juicy while the garlic and Parmesan add a bold, savory kick.
It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Minimal prep but maximum flavor — that’s always a win in my kitchen.
Pairs beautifully with pasta, salad, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Shrimp: Use peeled, deveined shrimp for convenience—either fresh or frozen (thawed).
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps the garlic and seasonings cling to the shrimp.
Garlic: The star of the show—don’t skimp!
Lemon zest: Brightens the dish with fresh citrus notes.
Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese creates a crispy, golden finish when roasted.
Dried herbs: Oregano and basil for that Italian flavor base.
Fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness to finish.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Marinate the shrimp for at least 1 hour—this infuses them with more flavor.
Use grated—not shredded—Parmesan so it coats evenly and melts into a crust.
Don’t overcook! Shrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and curl slightly.
Line your baking sheet with parchment for easy cleanup.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, basil, kosher salt, black pepper, and lemon zest.
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, then toss well to coat.
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 1–3 hours to allow the flavors to infuse.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Line a large baking sheet or 13×9-inch Pyrex dish with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
Remove the shrimp from the fridge and toss them with the grated Parmesan cheese until evenly coated.
Step 4: Roast the Shrimp
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking dish.
Roast in the oven for about 8 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, firm, and cooked through.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with a bit of extra olive oil and sprinkle chopped parsley on top.
Serve hot and enjoy immediately.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
Pasta tossed in olive oil and lemon
A crisp green salad with balsamic vinaigrette
Steamed rice or couscous
Variations / Substitutions
Use chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Swap shrimp with scallops or calamari for a seafood twist.
Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini for a veggie boost.
Try grana padano or pecorino instead of Parmesan.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of oil to keep shrimp tender.
Not recommended for freezing once cooked, as shrimp may become rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw them completely before marinating.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
They should be pink, firm, and curled into a “C” shape—usually in 8 minutes.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes! Marinate the shrimp up to a day ahead and roast right before serving.
What kind of Parmesan should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan works best for both flavor and texture.
Is it okay to cook this in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 5–6 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Can I double the recipe for a party?
Absolutely—just spread the shrimp out on two baking sheets.
How spicy is this dish?
It’s not spicy, but you can add a pinch of chili flakes if you like heat.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp has become a go-to in my kitchen.
Whether I’m entertaining friends or making dinner for myself after a long day, it never disappoints.
It’s proof that simple ingredients, when combined right, can deliver big on flavor and satisfaction.
