Introduction

Have you ever wondered why shrimp recipes are so popular among seafood lovers? With the rising trend of health-conscious eating, shrimp dishes, especially Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake, offer the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. This savory delight not only tantalizes your taste buds but also provides essential nutrients without the high caloric count often found in other meats. In this post, we will explore the steps to creating a delectable Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake that is easy to make and sure to impress.

Ingredients List

To create this delightful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon (fresh is best, but bottled can work in a pinch)

Feel free to adjust the quantities based on your preference; adding more garlic can enhance the aromatic experience, while less cheese can lower the fat content.

Timing

This recipe takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner. In comparison to many traditional shrimp recipes that can take up to 60 minutes, this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake saves you valuable cooking time without sacrificing flavor.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly baked texture. Remember, preheating ensures even cooking!

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss until well-coated. This is the magical moment where all flavors start to meld together.

Step 3: Add the Cheese and Parsley

Next, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Gently mix everything, allowing the cheese to adhere to the shrimp. This cheesy coating will create a delicious crust as it bakes.

Step 4: Arrange in the Baking Dish

Transfer the shrimp mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish in a single layer. Ensure the shrimp are spaced out for even cooking and to allow each piece to achieve a golden-brown color during baking.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Halfway through, it may be helpful to stir the shrimp for even cooking and ensure that every piece gets that delightful Parmesan crust.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once your kitchen is filled with a mouthwatering aroma, remove the dish from the oven. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on top and serve immediately for the best experience. Consider pairing your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake with crusty bread or over a bed of fresh spinach for a complete meal.

Nutritional Information

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is not just delicious; it’s also nutritionally balanced. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional information per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 24g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

The balance of protein and healthy fats makes this a great option for anyone looking to maintain a nutritious diet.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up this dish without sacrificing flavor, consider these alternatives:

• Try using shrimp that are grilled instead of baked to reduce reliance on fats.
• Substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt for a creamier texture with less fat.
• Incorporate a mix of whole grains, like quinoa or brown rice, as a base for serving to boost fiber content.
• Experiment with nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan-friendly option packed with umami flavor.

These alternatives not only maintain the delicious taste but also cater to various dietary needs.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is versatile and pairs beautifully with different sides. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Over Pasta: Serve the shrimp atop al dente pasta, drizzling any remaining sauce from the baking dish for a hearty meal.
• With Rice: Accompany the dish with a side of brown rice or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
• As a Salad: Toss the shrimp into your favorite salad greens for a delightful protein-rich complement.
• With Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce!

These suggestions can inspire fun and creative ways to diversify your dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make sure your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake turns out perfectly each time, here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using Frozen Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before mixing. Excess moisture can lead to a soggy dish.
• Overbaking: Shrimp cooks quickly; baking for too long can make them rubbery and dry. Keep a close eye during the cooking process.
• Not Seasoning Enough: Taste your shrimp before baking to ensure the seasoning is to your liking; don’t be shy with the garlic!
• Skipping the Preheat: Preheating the oven allows for consistent cooking; skipping it can lead to unevenly cooked shrimp.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Should you have leftovers (which is rare, given how delicious this dish is), here are some tips for storing and reheating:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Ensure the dish is cooled before sealing.
• Freezing: While not recommended for optimal texture, you can freeze the cooked shrimp for up to 2 months. Label the container with a date for reference.
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the oven to recapture that baked texture, or use the microwave in short bursts to avoid rubberiness.

Following these storage tips will help maintain the quality of your dish!

Conclusion

In summary, this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is an excellent way to enjoy a flavor-packed meal in under 30 minutes. With its nutritional benefits and versatile serving options, it’s a dish worth trying. Don’t hesitate to give this recipe a go, and feel free to share your cooking experience or feedback in the comments section. Be sure to subscribe to our blog for more delicious recipes!

FAQs

A: Can I use another type of cheese instead of Parmesan?

Yes! While Parmesan offers a distinct flavor, you can experiment with cheeses like Romano, Asiago, or even a sharp cheddar for a different twist.

B: How do I know when shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp are perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque. If they’re overcooked, they’ll curl up tightly and become rubbery, indicating they’ve been cooked for too long.

C: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the shrimp mixture in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready, simply bake it according to the recipe instructions.

D: Are there vegetarian alternatives for this recipe?

For a vegetarian version, consider using grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, seasoned with similar spices. Alternatively, marinated tofu can also be a great substitute!

E: What can I serve as a side dish?

Some excellent side dishes to pair with this shrimp bake include garlic mashed potatoes, sautéed vegetables, or a fresh garden salad for a light culinary touch.

Irresistible Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake: Quick & Easy Recipe

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• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

Discover this quick & easy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake recipe! Perfect for busy nights, it combines flavor & simplicity in one delicious dish. (155 chars)

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

Juice of 1 lemon

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Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Toss until well-coated.

Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Gently mix everything.

Transfer the shrimp mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish in a single layer.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes. Stir halfway through for even cooking.

Once cooked, remove from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice on top, and serve immediately.

Notes

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is not just delicious; it’s also nutritionally balanced. Made with shrimp, garlic, and Parmesan, it’s a quick and easy meal option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4 servings
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 24g