Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp You Must Try

If you’re a seafood fan searching for the perfect dish that combines crunch, flavor, and ease, look no further than this Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp recipe. It delivers tender shrimp coated in a golden, garlicky crust baked to perfection, making it an irresistible addition to any meal. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or entertaining guests, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal fuss and maximum taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless preparation: Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps, making it perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike.
• Ultimate crunch: The baked coating creates a satisfying crisp texture without the mess of frying.
• Bold garlic flavor: Each bite bursts with the rich aroma and savory punch of fresh garlic.
• Healthy alternative: Baking instead of frying reduces oil usage, making it a lighter option.
• Versatile dish: Great as an appetizer, main course, or even tossed into salads and pasta.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp, simplicity is key. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, enhancing the shrimp’s natural sweetness with texture, richness, and vibrant flavor. You probably have most of these pantry staples right at home!

• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, they’re the star of this dish and deliver a tender, juicy bite.
• Garlic cloves: Freshly minced to infuse the shrimp with its signature savory aroma.
• Panko breadcrumbs: Lighter and crunchier than regular breadcrumbs, these create the perfect crispy shell.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that complements the garlic beautifully.
• Olive oil: Helps the coating brown evenly while adding a subtle fruity note.
• Lemon zest and juice: Brightens the flavors and balances the richness.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all components.
• Fresh parsley: Optional garnish that adds color and a hint of freshness.

Variations for Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

Feel free to customize this recipe to your taste or dietary needs! It’s easy to adapt the ingredients and seasonings for a personalized touch or to suit what you have on hand.

• Spicy kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for a little heat.
• Gluten-free: Substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond meal or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Herb infusion: Mix in dried oregano, thyme, or basil for an herby twist.
• Citrus swap: Use lime zest and juice for a slightly different zesty profile.
• Cheese alternatives: Try grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.

How to Make Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Start by rinsing and patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Dry shrimp ensure the coating sticks better and bakes up crispier. If needed, trim any tails for easier eating.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Coating

In a bowl, combine finely minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Drizzle in olive oil gradually while mixing until everything is evenly coated and crumbly but moist.

Step 3: Coat the Shrimp

Toss the shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. The garlic and cheese-packed coating clings to each piece, setting the stage for that irresistible crunch.

Step 4: Arrange and Bake

Place coated shrimp on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they’re not touching for even cooking. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until golden and crispy.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Once baked, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while crispy.

Pro Tips for Making Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

• Dry your shrimp well: Moisture causes sogginess, so pat shrimp completely dry before coating.
• Use fine garlic: Mince garlic as finely as possible to avoid overpowering bites.
• Don’t overcrowd: Space shrimp evenly on the baking tray to ensure crisping on all sides.
• High heat baking: Baking at a higher temperature helps the topping brown quickly without drying out shrimp.
• Serve immediately: The shrimp are at their best right out of the oven; crispiness fades if left too long.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp

Garnishes

Simple parsley, extra grated Parmesan, or delicate lemon wedges brighten the plate and add layers of fresh flavor that complement the crispy garlic coating perfectly.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs wonderfully with light sides such as steamed vegetables, a fragrant rice pilaf, or a refreshing green salad to balance the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the shrimp stacked on crostini with a dollop of garlic aioli or spoon over a bowl of creamy pasta for an elegant dinner twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to two days. To maintain crispness, keep the shrimp separate from any sauces until serving.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking tray before transferring to a freezer bag; this prevents sticking and preserves texture for up to one month.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5 to 7 minutes to help restore the crispy coating without drying out the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before coating to achieve the best crispiness.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the Parmesan or substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative without compromising too much on flavor or texture.

How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Avoid over-baking by checking shrimp at 8 minutes; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left in the oven too long.

Can I double or triple the batch?

Definitely. Just spread the shrimp out on multiple baking sheets so they cook evenly and stay crispy.

What sides go best with Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp?

Light and fresh sides like quinoa salad, roasted asparagus, or a crisp coleslaw nicely balance the richness of the shrimp.

Final Thoughts

Crispy Baked Garlic Shrimp is a delightful way to enjoy seafood with minimal effort but maximum reward. The crunchy coating paired with garlic’s punch and bright lemon notes makes this dish a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Give this recipe a try tonight and savor every flavorful, crispy bite you’ll want to make again and again!

Related Posts

• Why World’s Best Recipe for Fried Green Tomatoes Works
• Quick & Easy Fruit and Dip Recipes for Snacks
• Best Air Fryer Pizza Rolls for Quick Snacks

Print