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### **Instructions for Making Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp**
**Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven will ensure that your shrimp bake quickly and evenly, getting that perfect golden crust.
**Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp**
If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. Leave the tails on for a nice presentation, or remove them if you prefer. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the butter mixture adhere to the shrimp.
**Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture**
In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add the minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, and lemon zest to the melted butter. Stir until the mixture is well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using.
**Step 4: Coat the Shrimp**
Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup. Pour the garlic butter mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece is coated.
**Step 5: Add the Panko Topping (Optional)**
For an added crunch, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs over the shrimp. The breadcrumbs will crisp up in the oven, giving the shrimp an extra layer of texture and flavor. This step is optional but highly recommended if you enjoy a crispy topping.
**Step 6: Bake the Shrimp**
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until the shrimp are opaque and pink. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp can become rubbery if left in the oven too long. The shrimp should be tender and juicy, with a beautiful golden-brown crust from the Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
**Step 7: Garnish and Serve**
Once the shrimp are done baking, remove them from the oven. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately. For an extra burst of flavor, drizzle with a little more lemon juice or add a light squeeze of fresh lemon over the shrimp before serving.
### **Serving Suggestions for Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp**
This baked garlic Parmesan shrimp can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile dish for any occasion:
– **Serve with Pasta**: For a complete meal, serve the shrimp over pasta, like spaghetti or linguine, tossed with olive oil or a light garlic butter sauce.
– **As an Appetizer**: Arrange the shrimp on a platter with toothpicks for easy serving at a party or as a starter for a dinner party.
– **On a Salad**: Add the shrimp to a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and satisfying meal.
– **With Rice or Vegetables**: Pair the shrimp with a side of rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables for a balanced and flavorful dish.
– **On Garlic Bread**: For a fun twist, serve the shrimp on toasted garlic bread for a delicious seafood bruschetta!
### **Tips for the Perfect Baked Garlic Parmesan Shrimp**
– **Choose Quality Shrimp**: Fresh or frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
– **Don’t Overcook**: Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming tough and rubbery.
– **Customize the Seasoning**: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or spices. For instance, fresh thyme, basil, or oregano pairs wonderfully with the garlic and Parmesan flavors.
– **Use Fresh Parmesan**: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-shredded versions, as it will melt better and taste richer.
### **Conclusion**
Baked garlic Parmesan shrimp is a simple yet impressive dish that brings bold flavors to your dinner table. With its rich garlic butter sauce and the nutty, salty goodness of Parmesan, this dish is sure to be a favorite in your recipe rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping appetizer, this baked shrimp recipe is both easy to make and irresistible to eat.
So next time you’re craving seafood, give this baked garlic Parmesan shrimp a try—you won’t be disappointed!
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