Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is one of those dishes that looks and tastes gourmet but takes hardly any effort to make. It’s a beautiful blend of tender shrimp, bold garlic, nutty Parmesan, and crispy breadcrumbs—all roasted to golden perfection. I love how it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for everything from casual dinners to dinner-party starters.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a go-to for me because it’s packed with flavor, fast to prepare, and incredibly versatile. The shrimp cook quickly in the oven and soak up the richness of garlic and cheese while developing a golden, crispy coating. Whether I serve it on pasta, over salad, or on its own as a starter, it always gets rave reviews. It also fits into a variety of meal styles—low-carb, high-protein, or indulgent.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 ½ pounds large shrimp (16–20 count), peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons olive oil
4 cloves garlic, finely minced
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or Italian-style)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Directions

I preheat my oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly oil it to prevent sticking.
If I’m using frozen shrimp, I thaw them in cold water for 15–20 minutes. Then I pat them dry thoroughly to ensure they roast instead of steam.
In a bowl, I mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, melted butter, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. The result should be a coarse, flavorful mixture.
I add the shrimp to the bowl and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
I arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, making sure they’re not crowded so they roast properly.
I roast the shrimp for 8–10 minutes, just until they turn pink, opaque, and the coating starts to crisp.
Once out of the oven, I sprinkle them with fresh parsley and squeeze lemon juice over the top to brighten the flavor.
I serve them hot—either on their own or as part of a bigger meal.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Butter Substitute: I sometimes use ghee or flavored olive oil instead of butter for a different richness.
Add Herbs: I mix in fresh basil or thyme when I want to change up the flavor profile.
Cheese Swap: Asiago or Pecorino Romano also works beautifully if I want a twist on the Parmesan.
Spicy Shrimp: I bump up the crushed red pepper for a bolder, spicier kick.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I pop the shrimp in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5–7 minutes or rewarm gently in a skillet. I avoid microwaving them, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. These are best served fresh, but they do hold up nicely for next-day lunches or shrimp salads.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, I can. I just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before roasting so they crisp up properly.

What size shrimp should I use?

I like using large shrimp (16–20 count per pound) because they’re meaty and stay juicy when roasted. Medium shrimp also work, but I reduce the cook time slightly.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

I prefer making it fresh, but I sometimes prep the garlic-Parmesan mixture and clean the shrimp ahead of time. Then I toss and roast just before serving.

What’s the best dipping sauce for this dish?

Garlic aioli, lemon butter, or even a light ranch pair really well. If I’m feeling fancy, I make a quick lemon-Parmesan dipping sauce.

Can I serve this dish cold?

Technically yes, but I think it’s best served warm right out of the oven. If I do serve it chilled, I like it on a salad with a bright vinaigrette.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp is one of those recipes I love having in my back pocket. It’s quick, packed with bold, satisfying flavors, and versatile enough to fit any occasion. Whether I’m making dinner for the family, prepping lunches for the week, or serving guests, this dish always shines.