Looking for a fast and tasty dish? Let’s dive into Oven Baked Crispy Garlic Shrimp! This meal is simple to prepare and bursting with flavor. You can serve it as a main dish or an appetizer. With just a few fresh ingredients and a little time, you’ll have juicy shrimp with a crispy garlic coating. Ready to impress your family or guests? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
Additional Flavor Enhancers
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, meticulously chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Seasoning and Cooking Essentials
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Zest of 1 large lemon
Gathering these ingredients is simple. Start with fresh, large shrimp. Look for shrimp that are firm and have a slight ocean smell. Panko breadcrumbs are key for crispiness. They give the shrimp that satisfying crunch. Fresh garlic adds flavor, and parmesan cheese brings a lovely umami touch.
Chopped parsley brightens the dish. It adds a hint of color and freshness. Smoked paprika gives depth and a subtle smokiness that enhances the overall taste.
Sea salt and black pepper are must-haves for seasoning. Extra-virgin olive oil helps the breadcrumbs stick and adds rich flavor. Finally, lemon zest gives a burst of citrus that brightens the shrimp.
This recipe is all about balance and flavor. Each ingredient plays a vital role, making the dish both tasty and simple. For the full recipe, check the details above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This step helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup easy.
Mixing the Dry Ingredients
– In a large bowl, combine:
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, meticulously chopped
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
Stir these ingredients together until they mix well. The panko gives a great crunch, while the garlic and cheese add flavor.
Coating the Shrimp
– Take 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined.
– In a separate bowl, toss the shrimp with:
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Zest of 1 large lemon
This step ensures every shrimp gets a nice flavor boost.
– Next, coat each shrimp with the breadcrumb mixture. Press them gently to ensure a good layer sticks.
Baking the Shrimp
– Arrange the coated shrimp on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are spaced out well.
– Bake for 12-15 minutes. Keep an eye on them. They are done when they turn pink and the breadcrumbs are golden.
For a full recipe, check out the detailed steps above. Enjoy your crispy garlic shrimp!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Optimal Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They are lighter than regular ones. This helps create a crispy crust. Here are some best practices:
– Use fresh panko: Old breadcrumbs can lose their crispness. Make sure they are fresh for the best results.
– Spray with oil: A light spray of oil on the breadcrumbs helps them brown nicely.
For an even coating on the shrimp, follow these tips:
– Dry shrimp well: Pat them dry with a paper towel. Less moisture helps the coating stick.
– Press firmly: When coating, press the shrimp into the breadcrumbs. This helps them stick better.
Ensuring Proper Cooking
To tell when shrimp are done, look for the color. Cooked shrimp turn pink and opaque. They should also have a nice curve. If they are curled and firm, they are ready.
Adjust the bake time based on shrimp size:
– Smaller shrimp: Bake for 10-12 minutes.
– Larger shrimp: Bake for 12-15 minutes.
Keep an eye on them. Overcooked shrimp can get tough.
Serving Suggestions
For a great presentation, serve the garlic shrimp on a nice platter. Add lemon wedges for a pop of color. A sprinkle of fresh parsley makes it look even better.
Consider these condiments and sides:
– Marinara sauce: A small bowl alongside the shrimp makes a great dip.
– Salad: A simple green salad pairs well for a fresh touch.
Check out the Full Recipe for more detailed instructions and tips!
Variations
Flavor Infusions
You can easily add more flavor to your shrimp. Try using fresh herbs like basil or thyme. A pinch of cayenne pepper can give a nice kick too. Instead of Parmesan cheese, consider using feta or nutritional yeast. Both options still provide a great taste without losing the dish’s essence.
Dietary Modifications
For gluten-free versions, swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko. Many brands offer great options that still give a nice crunch. If you want to cut back on calories, you can use less oil or bake without breadcrumbs. The shrimp will still be tasty, just a bit lighter.
Different Cooking Methods
Want to try something new? You can use an air fryer for crispy garlic shrimp. It cuts down on cooking time and uses less oil. Simply set your air fryer to 375°F and cook for about 8-10 minutes.
If you prefer stovetop cooking, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil and cook the shrimp until they turn pink. This method gives you a nice sear and keeps the shrimp juicy.
For the full recipe, check out the complete instructions.
Storage Info
Short-term Storage
To keep your leftover crispy garlic shrimp fresh, store them in the fridge. Place the shrimp in an airtight container. This helps lock in the taste and texture. I recommend using glass or plastic containers with tight-sealing lids. This way, your shrimp stay crispy for a couple of days.
Long-term Storage
If you want to save your crispy garlic shrimp for later, freezing is a great option. Allow the shrimp to cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about an hour. This prevents them from sticking together. After that, transfer the shrimp to a freezer-safe bag or container. Be sure to remove as much air as possible.
When you’re ready to eat the frozen shrimp, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10 minutes. This will help keep them crispy, just like fresh! If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat them in the microwave, but they may lose some crispiness. Enjoy your tasty shrimp anytime!
For the full recipe, check out the Oven Baked Crispy Garlic Shrimp section.
FAQs
How can I make these shrimp spicier?
To add heat, you can mix in some crushed red pepper flakes. Start with a pinch, then taste. You can also use chili powder or cayenne pepper in the breadcrumb mix. If you like more heat, increase the amount. Another option is to serve the shrimp with a spicy dipping sauce. A sriracha mayo or garlic chili sauce works well.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or run them under cold water until thawed. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the oil and breadcrumbs stick better. Follow the same steps in the Full Recipe for coating and baking.
What sides pair well with oven-baked crispy garlic shrimp?
You can serve these shrimp with many sides. A fresh salad with mixed greens and a tangy dressing balances the meal. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add color and nutrition. For something hearty, try garlic bread or rice. These pair nicely and soak up any extra garlic flavor.
You’ve learned how to make crispy garlic shrimp with simple steps and tasty ingredients. The key is using fresh shrimp and panko breadcrumbs for the best crunch. Don’t forget the tips to keep your shrimp tender and flavorful. Try different herbs and spices to mix things up. You can even explore other cooking methods like the stove or air fryer. With the right storage, these shrimp can last, so enjoy them later! Dive into this meal and elevate your cooking game today.
