Description
This Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp recipe delivers perfectly cooked, tender shrimp coated in a flavorful mixture of garlic, butter, and a crispy Parmesan-panko breadcrumb topping. Baked to golden perfection, these shrimp make a quick and impressive appetizer or main dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp Mixture
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Breading Mixture
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the shrimp to a crispy finish.
- Prepare the shrimp coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, optional red pepper flakes, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this mixture until each piece is well coated with the flavorful butter blend.
- Mix the breadcrumb topping: In a separate bowl, stir together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped fresh parsley to create a savory, crunchy topping for the shrimp.
- Arrange shrimp on baking sheet: Lay the coated shrimp out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking. Then evenly sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp, pressing lightly so it adheres well.
- Bake the shrimp: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The shrimp should turn pink and opaque, and the topping should become golden brown and crispy. Avoid overcooking to prevent toughness.
- Serve warm: Remove the shrimp from the oven and serve immediately. Accompany with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of freshness if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier variation, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Make sure shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen to ensure even cooking.
- Using fresh parsley adds brightness, but dried parsley can be substituted in a pinch.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a balanced meal.
- To keep the breadcrumb topping extra crunchy, place the baking sheet on the upper rack of the oven during the last few minutes of baking.
