Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp

Introduction

This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is a culinary masterpiece that combines the simplicity of everyday ingredients with the elegance of a restaurant-quality dish. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal effort, making it a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of succulent shrimp, savory garlic, and nutty parmesan cheese will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.

Why This Works

• The flavor balance in this recipe is unparalleled, with the pungency of garlic, the saltiness of parmesan, and the sweetness of shrimp creating a truly harmonious taste experience.
• The ingredients used in this recipe are easily accessible and probably already stocked in your pantry, making it a convenient choice for a last-minute dinner.
• The preparation and cooking process is remarkably straightforward, requiring only a few minutes of prep time and a short baking period, resulting in impressive results with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
• 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Rinse the shrimp under cold water, pat them dry with paper towels, and set them aside.
2. Step 2: In a medium bowl, mix together the minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Step 3: Drizzle the olive oil over the shrimp and toss to coat. Then, sprinkle the garlic-parmesan mixture evenly over the shrimp, pressing the crumbs gently onto the shrimp to ensure they stick.
4. Step 4: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil (for easy cleanup). Arrange the shrimp on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between each shrimp to allow for even cooking. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.

Handy Tips

• To ensure the shrimp cook evenly, try to select shrimp of similar size.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough and rubbery. They should be opaque and slightly firm to the touch when done.
• For an extra crispy topping, broil the shrimp for an additional 1-2 minutes after baking. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for baking the shrimp is 400°F (200°C), and the cooking time should be around 8-10 minutes, depending on the size of your shrimp. To check for doneness, look for the shrimp to turn pink and become opaque. You can also check by inserting a fork or the tip of a knife into the thickest part of the shrimp; if it slides in easily, the shrimp is cooked.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the panko breadcrumbs mixed with parmesan cheese, which provides a satisfying textural contrast to the soft shrimp. To enhance the crunch, make sure to press the breadcrumb mixture gently onto the shrimp before baking and consider broiling for a minute or two at the end of the cooking time.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil before arranging the shrimp.
• To prevent the shrimp from steaming instead of baking, make sure they are not overcrowded on the baking sheet.
• Consider using a cast-iron skillet or a baking stone in the oven to enhance the browning and crispiness of the shrimp.

Storage Tips

• Leftover shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
• To reheat, place the shrimp on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes, or until heated through.
• It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp, as the texture can become unpleasantly tough. However, you can freeze raw shrimp and then thaw and cook them as needed.

Gift Packaging Ideas

While this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp is best consumed fresh, if you’re looking to give a related gift, consider packaging a mix of parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and panko breadcrumbs in a decorative jar with a recipe card for a thoughtful and unique culinary gift.

Flavor Variations

• Try adding some dried or fresh herbs like thyme, oregano, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for added depth of flavor.
• For a spicy kick, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sliced jalapeños on top of the shrimp before baking.
• Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese, for a unique flavor profile.

Troubleshooting

• If your shrimp are not cooking evenly, check that they are all similar in size and that your oven is at the correct temperature.
• To avoid overcooking, keep an eye on the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking and remove them from the oven as soon as they are done.
• If the breadcrumb topping is not browning, try broiling the shrimp for a short period or increasing the oven temperature slightly.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? It’s not recommended to freeze cooked shrimp, but you can freeze raw shrimp and then thaw and cook them as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance or sensitivity.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure you have enough space on your baking sheet for the shrimp to cook evenly.

Conclusion

This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add a delicious, easy, and impressive dish to their culinary repertoire. With its straightforward preparation, minimal ingredients, and fantastic flavor, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, share it with friends and family, and enjoy the praise that comes with serving such a wonderful meal. Happy cooking!