Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp You’ll Love

Are you looking for a quick, delicious dish that will impress your family and friends? What if I told you that you could whip up a mouthwatering meal in just under 30 minutes? Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp You’ll Love is not only easy to prepare, but it also combines the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese, creating a delightful experience for your taste buds. This dish challenges the common belief that gourmet meals require hours of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. So, let’s dive into this delectable recipe that promises to be a hit at your dinner table!

Ingredients List

To create this scrumptious Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or dried herbs of your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Substitution Suggestions

• Shrimp: You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken breast for a different protein.
• Butter: Olive oil can be used for a healthier option.
• Parmesan Cheese: Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast (for a vegan alternative) can be used instead.
• Herbs: Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a fresh twist.

Timing

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe is incredibly time-efficient. Here’s a breakdown of the timing:

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

This means you can enjoy a delicious meal that takes 20% less time than the average dinner recipe, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your shrimp cook evenly and become perfectly tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a large mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated. This step is crucial as it infuses the shrimp with flavor.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Spread the shrimp mixture evenly on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure the shrimp are in a single layer for even cooking.

Step 4: Sprinkle Parmesan Cheese

Generously sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. The cheese will melt and create a delicious crust as it bakes.

Step 5: Bake the Shrimp

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once done, remove the shrimp from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick look at the nutritional information per serving (approximately 4 servings):

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 2g
• Fiber: 0g
• Cholesterol: 200mg
• Sodium: 600mg

Nutritional Insights

This dish is rich in protein and provides a good source of healthy fats from the butter and cheese. It’s low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb diet.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, consider the following modifications:

• Use Olive Oil: Replace butter with olive oil to reduce saturated fat.
• Low-Fat Cheese: Opt for low-fat cheese varieties to cut down on calories.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrients and fiber.
• Whole Grain Side: Serve with quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for a healthier grain option.

Serving Suggestions

This Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some creative serving suggestions:

• Pasta: Serve over a bed of whole wheat spaghetti or zucchini noodles for a delightful meal.
• Salad: Accompany with a fresh garden salad drizzled with a light vinaigrette.
• Bread: Offer crusty garlic bread on the side to soak up the delicious buttery sauce.
• Rice: A side of lemon-infused rice complements the flavors beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp turns out perfectly, here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
2. Not Preheating the Oven: Always preheat your oven to achieve the best cooking results.
3. Crowding the Baking Sheet: Ensure shrimp are in a single layer for even cooking; overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of baking.
4. Skipping the Garlic: Garlic is essential for flavor—don’t skip it or use too little.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

If you have leftovers (which is rare with this dish!), here are some tips for storing:

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through.

Conclusion

In summary, Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp You’ll Love is a quick and flavorful dish that is perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can create a gourmet meal in no time. Don’t forget to try this recipe, share your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more delicious updates!

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

Q2: How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the shrimp mixture before baking.

Q3: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is inherently gluten-free. Just ensure that the Parmesan cheese you use is certified gluten-free.

Q4: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the shrimp mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Bake just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Q5: What can I serve with this dish?

This shrimp pairs well with pasta, salads, or crusty bread. Feel free to get creative with your sides!