If you are craving a dish that bursts with bold flavor and delightful texture, you have to try this Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe. Imagine succulent shrimp coated in a perfectly golden crust that offers an irresistible crunch with every bite. This recipe brings together simple yet vibrant ingredients to create a seafood experience that’s light, crispy, and utterly satisfying. Whether you are cooking for a family dinner or entertaining guests, these baked shrimp will quickly become a beloved go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe plays a crucial role in building its signature texture and flavor. From the crispy panko breadcrumbs to the zing of smoked paprika and the richness of Parmesan cheese, each component is essential in making this dish unforgettable.
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on: Use fresh or thawed shrimp for the juiciest, most tender results.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These flaky crumbs provide the unbeatable crunch that makes this recipe special.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and helps bind the coating perfectly to the shrimp.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Drizzled with the panko mix to ensure crispiness without grease.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with warm, aromatic notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Brings a subtle smoky flavor that elevates the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Seasoning is key to enhancing all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a mild kick to balance the spices.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as a glue to hold the crunchy coating in place.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg stick evenly to each shrimp for an even crust.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a vibrant color and fresh finish.
- Lemon wedges (for serving): A squeeze of lemon brightens every bite beautifully.
How to Make Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Shrimp
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it. Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels — this step is crucial because dry shrimp will help the coating adhere better and become crispier during baking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
Organize three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the panko mixture. The panko mixture includes breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This setup makes the coating process efficient and fun.
Step 3: Coat the Shrimp Perfectly
Dredge each shrimp first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully covered. Finally, press the shrimp into the panko mixture until generously coated. This triple-layer technique locks in moisture while creating that iconic Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe texture.
Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the coating becomes beautifully golden and crisp. For extra crunch, pop the shrimp under the broiler for the last 1 to 2 minutes, but watch carefully so they don’t burn.
How to Serve Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only add a pop of color but also a touch of herbal freshness that balances the rich, crunchy coating. Don’t forget those lemon wedges— a squeeze of bright citrus juice is simply transformative.
Side Dishes
This Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe pairs beautifully with light, complementary sides such as a crisp garden salad, garlic butter roasted asparagus, or even a fluffy couscous. These sides keep the meal fresh and balanced while letting the shrimp be the star.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your shrimp on skewers with alternating cherry tomatoes and fresh basil leaves. Or pile them atop a bed of creamy risotto or zesty avocado salad. Presentation that delights the eyes will make your Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe even more inviting at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover crispy shrimp (though it’s hard to resist eating them all!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They are best eaten within 2 days to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
You can freeze leftover shrimp by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This keeps the coating from clumping and preserves the quality for up to 1 month.
Reheating
To bring back that irresistible crunch when reheating, pop your shrimp in the oven at 400°F for about 5 to 7 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy instead of crispy.
FAQs
Can I make this Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour and regular panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions. The results will be just as crispy and delicious, perfect for those with gluten sensitivities.
What dipping sauces go well with Crunchy Baked Shrimp?
These shrimp are versatile with dips like classic cocktail sauce, creamy aioli, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a tangy lemon garlic butter. Pick your favorite or try them all for a fun tasting experience.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! These shrimp reheat well and can be packed with side salads or grains for easy, flavorful meals throughout the week. Just keep the shrimp and dressings separate to maintain crispiness.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Definitely. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before breading. Excess moisture can prevent the coating from sticking and crisping up properly.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
The shrimp are done when the coating is golden and the shrimp turn opaque with a slight curl. Overcooking can make them tough, so keeping an eye on the bake time is key to tender, juicy results.
Final Thoughts
This Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe is one of those dishes that feels special yet comes together effortlessly. It’s packed with texture, vibrant flavors, and is perfect for any occasion that calls for a little culinary magic. I truly encourage you to give it a try, invite friends or family, and watch as it quickly becomes a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Print
Crunchy Baked Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Crunchy Baked Shrimp recipe delivers a deliciously crispy texture with a flavorful panko and Parmesan coating. Perfectly baked to golden perfection, these shrimp are an easy, savory seafood main course ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or serving at gatherings. The light seasonings of garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a hint of lemon make this dish flavorful yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Coating
- 1 pound large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and become crispier during baking.
- Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, the second with the beaten eggs, and the third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the Shrimp: Dredge each shrimp first in the flour to lightly coat, then dip into the beaten eggs ensuring full coverage, and finally press thoroughly into the panko mixture to achieve a crunchy crust.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they do not overlap to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Bake the Shrimp: Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until the shrimp are cooked through and the coating turns golden brown and crisp. For extra crunch, broil for an additional 1 to 2 minutes if desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce, such as cocktail sauce or aioli.
Notes
- For extra crunch, broil the shrimp for the last 1 to 2 minutes of baking.
- You can substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs and flour to make this dish gluten-free.
- Serve with cocktail sauce, aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
- Ensure shrimp are arranged in a single layer to prevent sogginess and maximize crispiness.
