If you’re a fan of shrimp, you’re in for a treat with this “Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp” recipe. It’s a delightful combination of tender shrimp coated in a crispy, flavorful crust, baked to golden perfection. This recipe is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or even as an appetizer for gatherings.
The Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp recipe is a true winner, combining ease of preparation with a delightful crunch and flavorful seasoning. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or a fresh salad, and you have a complete meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. Enjoy the magic of this crispy baked shrimp, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
INGREDIENTS:
For this Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasoning.
Step 2: Prepare the Crispy Topping
- In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the mixture and toss until the breadcrumbs are well-coated and slightly clumpy. The olive oil helps the breadcrumbs brown and become crispy in the oven.
Step 3: Assemble the Shrimp
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Spoon the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of each shrimp, pressing gently to adhere.
Step 4: Bake the Shrimp
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through. The breadcrumb topping should be golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
- Once done, remove the shrimp from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Transfer the shrimp to a serving platter, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon juice adds a bright, fresh flavor that complements the richness of the crispy topping.
Why This Recipe Works
- Perfectly Balanced Flavors: The combination of garlic, onion, and paprika with a hint of spice from the red pepper flakes creates a well-rounded flavor profile that enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.
- Crispy Texture: The panko breadcrumbs, combined with Parmesan cheese and olive oil, create a crunchy crust that contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and a short baking time, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you need to whip up something impressive in a hurry.
- Versatile: This dish can be served as a main course with a side of vegetables or salad, or as an appetizer for a crowd. It’s also easy to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
Tips for Success
- Use Fresh or Thawed Shrimp: For the best texture, use fresh shrimp or thoroughly thawed frozen shrimp. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each piece. This allows the heat to circulate evenly, ensuring that the shrimp cook perfectly and the topping gets crispy.
- Watch the Baking Time: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them while they’re in the oven. Overcooking can result in rubbery shrimp, so remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque