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Crispy Baked Shrimp with Garlic Parmesan Topping

Crispy Baked Shrimp with Garlic Parmesan Topping

Crispy Baked Shrimp with Garlic Parmesan Topping is a delicious and easy-to-make seafood dish that combines tender shrimp with a golden, crunchy panko breadcrumb coating flavored with garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs. Baked instead of fried, this recipe offers a healthier alternative while delivering bold, savory flavors perfect for appetizers, main courses, or party snacks.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp

  • 1 lb peeled and deveined fresh shrimp

Topping

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (or asiago, pecorino, or sharp cheddar)
  • 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
  • 12 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon dried parsley or oregano (or fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or dill)

Additional Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus more for serving)
  • Optional: red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and ensures crispiness during baking.
  2. Make the Garlic Parmesan Topping: In a mixing bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs you like. Drizzle olive oil over the mixture and stir well until crumbs are evenly coated, creating a moist, crumbly topping ready to crisp in the oven.
  3. Coat the Shrimp: Lightly brush the shrimp with olive oil or lemon juice to encourage adhesion. Then, gently press each shrimp into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring a generous and even coating that will bake into a crispy crust.
  4. Arrange and Bake: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 to 12 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the topping is golden brown and crunchy.
  5. Finish and Serve: Remove shrimp from the oven and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for extra brightness. Serve immediately while the topping is crisp and the shrimp remain juicy inside. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives if desired.

Notes

  • Dry shrimp thoroughly to ensure the breadcrumb coating sticks and crisps perfectly.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for richer flavor and better melting properties.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking pan; spacing shrimp properly allows hot air to circulate for even crisping.
  • Optional double-coating: dip shrimp in beaten egg before breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Allow shrimp to rest just slightly after baking to set the topping without losing heat.
  • For gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond meal.
  • Reheat leftovers in a 375°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness instead of microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, baked shrimp, seafood appetizer, crispy shrimp, garlic parmesan, gluten free, easy recipe