Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that works beautifully as a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a protein-packed entrée. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, herbs, and Parmesan, these shrimp roast to perfection in under 10 minutes and are finished with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Whether you’re prepping for a party or craving a light dinner, this recipe is delicious, elegant, and incredibly easy to make.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

  • 1 pound medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan

  • 4 garlic cloves, minced

  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano

  • ½ teaspoon dried basil

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

  • Juice of ½ lemon

  • Parsley leaves, chopped (for garnish)

  • Cocktail sauce (optional, for serving)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a baking sheet with olive oil or nonstick spray.

  2. Spread the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet.

  3. Evenly distribute olive oil, Parmesan, garlic, oregano, and basil over the shrimp. Season with salt and pepper.

  4. Toss everything gently with a spoon or clean hands to coat the shrimp.

  5. Roast in the oven for 7–9 minutes, or until shrimp are pink, firm, and fully cooked.

  6. Remove from oven and immediately drizzle with lemon juice.

  7. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with optional cocktail sauce.

Nutrients (Per serving – approx. 4 servings)

  • Calories: 832 kcal

  • Protein: 103g

  • Fat: 41g

  • Saturated Fat: 9g

  • Cholesterol: 1165mg

  • Carbohydrates: 6g

  • Sugar: 1g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sodium: 5073mg

  • Potassium: 475mg

  • Vitamin A: 241 IU

  • Vitamin C: 22mg

  • Calcium: 987mg

  • Iron: 11mg

A Recipe That Delivers on Speed and Flavor

This recipe shines because it comes together in under 15 minutes, including prep and cook time. Shrimp cook quickly, which makes them ideal for fast meals when time is short but flavor is still a priority. The roasting method adds a depth of flavor that pan-searing or boiling simply can’t match. The high heat caramelizes the garlic and Parmesan slightly, creating a golden crust and releasing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Each bite is juicy, savory, and bursting with balanced seasoning.

Garlic and Parmesan: A Flavorful Pairing

Garlic and Parmesan are a time-tested culinary duo, and in this dish, they’re the backbone of its bold, savory character. The garlic brings that unmistakable pungent aroma and warmth, infusing the shrimp with its deep, roasted flavor. Parmesan cheese, with its salty, nutty richness, adds texture and depth. As it roasts, the cheese crisps up slightly and coats the shrimp in a delicate, golden layer that enhances the natural sweetness of the seafood. Together, they elevate this dish from simple to unforgettable.

Herbs That Add Depth and Aroma

A blend of dried oregano and basil brings an Italian-inspired twist to this dish. These herbs work in harmony with the garlic and Parmesan, infusing the shrimp with earthy, aromatic notes that complement their briny flavor. The herbs also create a warm and inviting aroma as the shrimp roast, making this dish as appealing to smell as it is to taste. You can easily substitute or add your favorite herbs like thyme, rosemary, or even a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

A Burst of Freshness with Lemon and Parsley

Just as important as the savory elements is the fresh, acidic pop provided by the finishing touch of lemon juice. Once the shrimp are out of the oven, a quick drizzle of lemon brightens the entire dish and cuts through the richness of the Parmesan and oil. It’s a simple step that makes a world of difference. Fresh chopped parsley is the final flourish—adding a burst of color and a hint of freshness that completes the flavor profile beautifully. It’s this balance of rich and fresh that makes each bite so satisfying.

Versatile for Any Occasion

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp is a wonderfully versatile dish. Serve it as a crowd-pleasing appetizer at a dinner party or holiday gathering. Pair it with crusty bread or crostini and let guests dip into the flavorful olive oil and cheese left on the pan. It’s also fantastic as a main course, especially when paired with pasta, rice, quinoa, or a fresh green salad. You can even use these shrimp in wraps, tacos, or grain bowls for a quick lunch or meal prep option. Whether you’re serving it to guests or preparing a solo dinner, it fits effortlessly into any menu.

Perfect for Low-Carb and Protein-Packed Diets

This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates and packed with lean protein, making it a great option for those following keto, paleo, or high-protein diets. Shrimp are a fantastic source of low-fat protein, and the added flavor comes from wholesome ingredients like olive oil, herbs, and cheese. Because the dish is so satisfying and nutrient-rich, it’s ideal for those who want to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor or variety. You can enjoy a generous portion knowing it delivers plenty of fuel and flavor with minimal effort.

A Stunning Presentation with Minimal Effort

Despite its simplicity, this dish has a restaurant-quality appearance that’s sure to impress. The shrimp develop a delicate golden crust as they roast, while the flecks of herbs and bits of melted Parmesan add texture and color. A scatter of parsley and a few lemon wedges create a beautiful finishing touch without requiring any special plating skills. Whether served in a simple dish or on a platter for a crowd, Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp looks just as good as it tastes.

Kid-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing

While shrimp might seem like a more refined ingredient, this dish is incredibly accessible and crowd-friendly. The familiar flavors of garlic, cheese, and herbs appeal to both kids and adults, and the bite-sized shrimp are easy to eat with fingers or forks. Even picky eaters who might shy away from seafood are often won over by the savory, cheesy coating and tender texture. It’s also easy to scale the recipe up or down depending on how many people you’re feeding, making it a reliable go-to for gatherings of any size.

Customizable and Adaptable

One of the best parts of this recipe is how customizable it is. You can adjust the herbs to your taste, add a pinch of chili flakes for heat, or even swap the Parmesan for another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick. For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs just before serving. Prefer grilled shrimp? This recipe works wonderfully on the grill, too—just thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill until slightly charred and cooked through. The base recipe is a canvas for your creativity, making it easy to adapt it to whatever you’re craving.

Simple Ingredients with Bold Results

It’s amazing how just a few pantry staples can come together to create something so flavorful. That’s the beauty of Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp. You don’t need complex ingredients or hours of prep—just quality shrimp, a handful of herbs, and a few flavorful accents. The result is a dish that’s packed with character and richness, yet feels light and fresh. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again when you want something quick, delicious, and sure to impress.

Conclusion

Parmesan Garlic Roasted Shrimp is the perfect example of how simple ingredients and smart seasoning can create a truly memorable dish. With juicy shrimp, savory garlic, crispy Parmesan, and aromatic herbs all brought together in under 10 minutes, it’s a recipe that offers both speed and sophistication. Whether served as an appetizer, entrée, or snack, it never fails to impress with its bold flavor, elegant presentation, and effortless preparation. Versatile, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious, this shrimp dish is one you’ll want to keep in regular rotation—ideal for busy nights, special occasions, or anytime you’re craving something light yet satisfying.

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