Anastasia Rice January 29, 2026

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Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight

Name: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped); 1 tsp smoked paprika; Salt & pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

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A warm pan of roasted shrimp slipping into the oven, the kitchen filling with the scent of garlic and toasted Parmesan, that bright squeeze of lemon at the table, this is a dish that feels both indulgent and effortless. Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight makes weeknight dinners feel special and it stands proud on a weekend spread, especially when paired with crisp vegetables like crispy garlic Parmesan roasted green beans for a truly satisfying plate.

What Makes This Special

This Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight stands out because it balances textures and flavors in a single, speedy pan. The shrimp roast quickly at high heat, developing slightly golden edges that give a delicate crispness against tender, juicy centers. Garlic and Parmesan combine for rich, savory notes, while a touch of smoked paprika adds warmth and a whisper of smokiness that makes every bite compelling.

You can serve this as a quick weeknight main, a starter for guests, or a protein-packed topping for salads and pastas. It is one of those recipes that rewards precision in prep, but does not punish a hurried cook, so it is perfect for busy schedules and last-minute entertaining alike.

Reasons to love it

Fast to make, ready from start to table in about 20 minutes
Big, bold garlic and Parmesan flavor with just a hint of smoke
Versatile for plates, salads, pasta, or tapas style sharing
Brightened with lemon, so it never feels heavy

What You’ll Need

The ingredients here play clear roles, olive oil carries the aromatics and helps the Parmesan crisp, garlic provides the backbone of flavor, and smoked paprika lifts the savory profile. If you like more heat, adjust the paprika or add red pepper flakes, and for a crunchier finish toss in a little panko.

Large shrimp – 1 lb (peeled and deveined, tails on)
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 4 cloves (minced)
Grated Parmesan cheese – ⅓ cup
Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp (chopped)
Smoked paprika – 1 tsp
Salt & pepper – to taste
Lemon wedges – for serving

Note, if you ever adapt a recipe that calls for bacon, consider swapping in turkey bacon for a lighter, leaner touch that still brings savory crunch. This particular shrimp dish does not need bacon, but a crumble of cooked turkey bacon makes a tasty variation.

How to Cook Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight

Preheat the oven to 400°F, 200°C, and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This gives the Parmesan something to toast against without sticking, and the hot oven is what produces those slightly golden edges that signal crispiness.
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is evenly coated so the garlic and oil cling, you should see a glossy coating on the surface.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, gently tossing until the shrimp are well coated. The Parmesan will cling to the oil and garlic, forming a thin cheesy crust as it roasts, and the parsley adds a fresh green fleck throughout.
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving small gaps between pieces so hot air circulates and the edges can brown. Crowding will steam the shrimp and you will lose that desired slight crisp.
Roast for 8 to 10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and slightly golden on the edges. Watch for the shrimp to turn opaque and curl lightly, and let your nose help you too, a toasty, garlicky aroma is your cue that the Parmesan is toasting nicely.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a zesty finish, squeezing just before eating to brighten the savory flavors and add a refreshing lift.

Prep ~ 10 minutes, Cook ~ 8 to 10 minutes, Total ~ 20 minutes, Servings ~ 4, Kcal ~ 210 per serving (estimate)

Make-Ahead and Prep Tips

You can streamline weeknight service by doing a few things ahead. Peel, devein, and pat the shrimp dry a day ahead then store them tightly covered in the coldest part of your refrigerator. Measure and mince your garlic and grate the Parmesan the day before, storing both in airtight containers in the fridge so they are ready to go.

If you want to mix flavors ahead, combine the oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper and keep this seasoning oil refrigerated up to 24 hours. Toss the shrimp with the seasoning and the cheese just before roasting; adding the Parmesan too early can cause it to clump and become wet. If you plan to prep the whole dish, keep the coated shrimp on a covered tray in the fridge and roast within a few hours for best texture.

How to Store Leftovers

Refrigerate cooked Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. It will stay best for 2 to 3 days when chilled promptly. For longer storage, you can freeze cooked shrimp in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to one month, though texture tends to be best when eaten sooner.

When reheating, do so gently to avoid overcooking. Warm in a 300°F oven for 5 to 7 minutes, or reheat briefly in a hot skillet with a teaspoon of oil just until heated through, watching closely so the shrimp do not turn rubbery. A freshness cue to watch for is aroma, shrimp that smell off or sour should be discarded.

Perfect Pairings

Steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the garlicky juices.
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette for a bright counterpoint.
Roasted baby potatoes tossed with olive oil and thyme.
Serve alongside crispy honey garlic salmon bites for a seafood-forward spread.
Garlic bread or crusty sourdough to mop up any leftover Parmesan and lemon.

Make It Your Own

Add heat, not fuss, by sprinkling in ¼ to ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes with the smoked paprika for a gentle kick.
Extra crust, please, toss in 2 tablespoons of panko crumbs with the Parmesan before roasting for a more pronounced crunch.
Brighten the herbs, swap in basil or cilantro for parsley to shift the flavor profile toward Mediterranean or Latin notes.
Citrus twist, substitute half of the lemon juice for a splash of fresh orange for a sweeter, aromatic finish.
Turkey bacon crumble, for a smoky, meaty touch, crisp diced turkey bacon and sprinkle on top before serving, this keeps the dish lean yet savory.
Make it a pasta topper, toss the roasted shrimp with al dente linguine, extra Parmesan, and reserved pasta water for a quick shrimp pasta.
Low salt, use less Parmesan and finish with a lemon zest flourish and extra parsley to preserve flavor while cutting sodium.

Pro Tips for Best Results

Use room temperature shrimp when possible, this helps them cook evenly and reduces the chance of overcooking the surface while the interior remains cool.
Give space on the baking sheet, shrimp should not touch, that gap encourages crisping and even browning.
Watch the clock, shrimp cook very quickly, and 8 to 10 minutes in a 400°F oven is typically enough, depending on size.
Texture is king, pull the shrimp from the oven as soon as they turn opaque and slightly curled, overcooking makes them rubbery.
If using a thermometer, aim for an internal temperature in the neighborhood of 120 to 140°F, shrimp are done when opaque and firm but not stiff.
Toasted Parmesan is a flavor signal, when you smell a toasty, nutty aroma the cheese is doing its job.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size shrimp should I use for best results?
Large shrimp, about 16 to 20 per pound, work beautifully because they cook quickly but still have substance. Smaller shrimp will cook faster and can dry out, while jumbo shrimp will take a touch longer and may need a minute or two more in the oven.

Can I make this on the grill instead of in the oven?
Yes, grill on a hot, lightly oiled grate for 2 to 3 minutes per side, brushing with the garlic Parmesan mixture as they cook. Use a grill basket or skewers to prevent shrimp from falling through, and watch closely as grilling heats them quickly.

Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?
Frozen shrimp are fine if fully thawed and patted very dry, excess moisture prevents browning and can make the Parmesan soggy. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water if short on time, then dry thoroughly with paper towels.

How do I prevent the Parmesan from clumping?
Add the Parmesan at the last moment before roasting and make sure the shrimp are well coated in oil so the cheese adheres in a thin layer. If you toss the cheese too early, it can absorb moisture and clump, reducing the crisp texture you want.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes, you can double or triple, but spread shrimp across two baking sheets to avoid overcrowding and ensure even roasting. Rotate trays halfway through if your oven has hot spots, and maintain the same oven temperature for consistent results.

What if I want a saucier finish?
After roasting, toss the shrimp in a light butter, lemon, and garlic sauce or a spoonful of olive oil mixed with extra lemon and herbs. Add the sauce just before serving so the roasted crust remains noticeable.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight is a little kitchen joy, bringing bold flavor and lovely texture together with almost no fuss. It delivers on speed without sacrificing restaurant quality, and it adapts easily to sides and tweaks so you can make it your own. Try it tonight and enjoy how a handful of simple ingredients come together to create something bright, savory, and memorable.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Shrimp – Crispy & Savory 20-Min Seafood Delight

Author: anastasia-rice
Total Time: 20 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten-Free

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Description

A quick and indulgent shrimp dish featuring garlic, Parmesan, and a hint of smoked paprika, perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic (minced)
⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt & pepper to taste
Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
Add grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley, and gently toss until the shrimp are well coated.
Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, leaving gaps between pieces.
Roast for 8 to 10 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and slightly golden on the edges.
Serve immediately with lemon wedges.