Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake: An Easy, Flavor-Packed Dinner

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is one of those recipes that feels elegant yet takes very little effort to prepare. It is the kind of dish you can make on a busy weeknight but still proudly serve to guests. I first tried this recipe when I needed something quick that did not sacrifice flavor, and it immediately became a staple in my kitchen. The combination of tender shrimp, rich garlic butter, and savory Parmesan cheese creates a bold, comforting flavor that feels indulgent without being heavy.

Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, making it easy to adapt to whatever you have on hand. Everything bakes together in one dish, which means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor. Whether you are cooking for your family or preparing a simple meal for yourself, this shrimp bake delivers reliable results every time.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp
Shrimp are the star of this dish. Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they stay juicy and tender during baking. I recommend using raw, peeled, and deveined shrimp for ease and consistency.

Butter
Butter forms the base of the sauce and gives the dish its rich, luxurious mouthfeel. When melted with garlic, it coats the shrimp evenly and enhances their natural sweetness.

Garlic
Garlic provides the bold, aromatic backbone of this recipe. Freshly minced garlic delivers the most robust flavor and balances the richness of the butter and cheese.

Parmesan Cheese
Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty depth that ties everything together. As it bakes, it forms a lightly golden topping that adds both flavor and texture.

Italian Seasoning
Italian seasoning brings subtle herbal notes that complement the garlic and shrimp without overpowering them.

Red Pepper Flakes
Red pepper flakes add gentle heat and contrast. They are optional but highly recommended for a balanced flavor profile.

Salt and Black Pepper
Salt and black pepper enhance all the ingredients and ensure the dish tastes well-rounded rather than flat.

Fresh Parsley
Fresh parsley adds brightness and a pop of color just before serving, making the finished dish feel fresh and complete.

Directions

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Lightly grease a baking dish large enough to hold the shrimp in a single layer. Arrange the shrimp evenly in the dish and season them with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes.

In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Pour this mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece is well coated. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese generously over the top.

Bake uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. For a lightly browned finish, place the dish under the broiler for one to two minutes at the end. Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 12–15 minutes
Total time: about 25 minutes

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the oven or on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Microwaving is possible but should be done carefully to maintain texture.

Variations and Customizations

This Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is easy to adapt to different tastes and dietary needs. For a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream to the butter mixture before baking. I have also tried mixing in a small amount of mozzarella for extra melt and richness, which worked very well.

If you enjoy brighter flavors, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds a refreshing contrast. You can also add vegetables such as broccoli florets or asparagus to the baking dish, making it a complete one-pan meal.

For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning.

Nutrition and Dietary Info

Nutrient	Amount per serving
Calories	360
Protein (g)	32
Carbs (g)	4
Fat (g)	24
Saturated Fat (g)	12
Fiber (g)	0.5
Sugar (g)	1
Sodium (mg)	820

Expert Tips & Customizations

Use large shrimp for best texture and presentation.
Do not overbake, as shrimp cook very quickly.
Freshly grate Parmesan for superior flavor.
Broil briefly at the end for a golden finish.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw and pat them dry before baking.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

You can assemble it a few hours in advance and bake just before serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan?

It works, but freshly grated cheese melts and tastes better.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pasta, rice, or crusty bread pair very well.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

They are done when they turn pink and opaque with a firm texture.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bake is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, satisfying results. With minimal preparation and maximum flavor, this dish is ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Once you try it, it is likely to become one of those dependable recipes you turn to again and again.

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