Crispy Baked Shrimp with Panko & Garlic
Crispy Baked Shrimp with Panko & Garlic is a flavorful seafood dish featuring medium-sized shrimp coated in a golden, crunchy panko and Parmesan crust infused with fresh garlic and lemon zest. Baked to perfection at high heat, this recipe offers a healthy alternative to frying with quick prep and versatile serving options, perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or snack.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb peeled and deveined medium-sized shrimp
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or 1 teaspoon paprika
- Pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes (for spicy twist)
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed almonds (gluten-free option)
- Dried Italian herbs or fresh chopped dill (herbed coating)
- Shredded unsweetened coconut (coconut crunch)
- Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese instead of Parmesan (cheese swap)
- Prep the shrimp: Pat your peeled and deveined shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks well. Set aside.
- Make the coating mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, salt, pepper, and any optional herbs or spices. Mix well to evenly incorporate all ingredients.
- Coat the shrimp: Lightly brush or toss the shrimp in olive oil or melted butter, then dredge each piece through the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to every side.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated shrimp in a single layer on a parchment-lined or lightly greased baking sheet, making sure they’re not touching for even crispiness.
- Bake to perfection: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake the shrimp for about 10-12 minutes or until the coating is golden brown and the shrimp are cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Remove from the oven, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and serve immediately while they’re hot and crispy.
Notes
- Dry your shrimp thoroughly; moisture prevents the coating from sticking and makes the shrimp soggy.
- Use fresh minced garlic for the best flavor and aroma.
- Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to allow shrimp to crisp evenly rather than steam.
- Bake at a high temperature (425°F) to ensure a crispy crust without overcooking the shrimp.
- Fresh lemon zest adds a refreshing lift to the richness of the garlic and cheese.
- Serve immediately for the crispiest texture as the coating softens when left to sit.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 0.5g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: crispy baked shrimp, panko shrimp, garlic shrimp, healthy shrimp recipe, baked seafood, crunchy shrimp, easy shrimp appetizer