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If you love bold flavors that come together effortlessly, this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe is going to be your new go-to dinner favorite. Picture juicy, plump shrimp coated in a fragrant blend of garlic, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese, all broiled to golden perfection on skewers—each bite bursting with a mouthwatering combination of savory, tangy, and slightly spicy notes. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for weeknights or entertaining friends who appreciate the magic of a well-seasoned seafood treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for this Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe is a breeze because each one plays a key role in creating flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. From the succulent shrimp to the fresh parsley, every component is essential — simple but powerful.
- 1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count): Opt for fresh or thawed large shrimp for the perfect meaty bite that holds up on the skewer.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps the Parmesan stick to the shrimp while keeping them moist.
- 4 garlic cloves minced: Brings that punch of garlic flavor that makes this recipe unforgettable.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty crust that perfectly complements the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky note that elevates the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little heat to balance the richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Freshens things up with a bright herbal note and a pop of green color.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the shrimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of spice and depth.
- Lemon wedges for serving: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness to each bite.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skewers and Oven
Before you dive into seasoning, soak 4 to 6 wooden skewers in water for at least 20 minutes to prevent them from burning during broiling. Meanwhile, preheat your broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil for an easy cleanup. Grease the foil lightly with olive oil or a nonstick spray to keep your shrimp from sticking.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, freshly minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Take your time to coat each shrimp evenly—this layer of seasoning is the foundation for all the delicious flavor to come.
Step 3: Add Parmesan Cheese
Now sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and gently toss the shrimp again. The olive oil will help the cheese stick and form a mouthwatering crispy coating once cooked. This extra attention here makes all the difference.
Step 4: Thread the Shrimp Onto Skewers
Thread 4 to 5 shrimp per skewer, piercing carefully through the thick and thin ends to keep them secure. This helps the shrimp cook evenly and makes flipping during broiling a breeze.
Step 5: Broil to Perfection
Place your shrimp skewers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer and broil for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the shrimp turn a beautiful pink and the Parmesan crust is gloriously golden and crispy.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove your skewers from the oven and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top. Serve immediately alongside lemon wedges for that zing of citrus that perfectly complements the savory shrimp.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe with extra fresh parsley and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper on top. A sprinkling of lemon zest can add an unexpected pop of aromatic freshness if you’re feeling fancy.
Side Dishes
These shrimp skewers pair beautifully with light and vibrant sides like a crisp green salad, garlic butter roasted asparagus, or even a fluffy bed of couscous to soak up those garlicky, cheesy juices. For something heartier, creamy risotto or garlic mashed potatoes also make wonderful companions.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, arrange the skewers fan-style on a large platter with lemon wedges and a small bowl of your favorite dipping sauce—think garlic aioli or a tangy cocktail sauce. You can also serve them atop a fresh pasta tossed lightly with olive oil and herbs for a composed meal that looks incredible.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days, allowing you to savor that garlicky, cheesy goodness again with minimal effort.
Freezing
Freezing cooked shrimp skewers isn’t recommended as the texture can become rubbery upon thawing. Instead, freeze your seasoned shrimp before cooking if you’d like to prepare ahead. Just thread and freeze in a single layer, then broil fresh when ready.
Reheating
To reheat, place the shrimp skewers on a baking sheet and warm them under the broiler for just a minute or two on each side until heated through and the cheese regains a bit of its crispness. Be careful not to overcook to keep the shrimp tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning. This prevents excess moisture and helps the Parmesan coating stick better during cooking.
What can I use instead of wooden skewers?
If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal ones work perfectly and don’t require soaking. Just be mindful of the cooking time as they tend to transfer heat quickly, potentially cooking the shrimp faster.
Is it possible to grill these shrimp skewers instead of broiling?
Yes! Grilling adds a lovely smoky char that complements the smoked paprika and Parmesan flavors beautifully. Just cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side, watching closely to prevent burning.
Can I omit the crushed red pepper flakes?
Definitely. The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and only add a little heat. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder dish or substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different type of spice.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy. Just note that the texture will change slightly, but the flavor will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the simplicity and boldness of the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe that makes it a standout on any dinner table. Whether for a quick weeknight meal or a festive gathering, these skewers never fail to impress. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover how effortlessly delicious shrimp can be when paired with garlic, Parmesan, and a little bit of love.
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Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Broiling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are a quick and flavorful appetizer, featuring large shrimp coated in a garlicky, Parmesan cheese mixture and broiled to perfection. The recipe highlights smoky paprika and fresh parsley for a vibrant taste, served with lemon wedges for a zesty finish. Perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight treat, these skewers come together in just 16 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
- 4–6 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 20 minutes
Instructions
- Prepare Skewers and Broiler: Soak wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Preheat your broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil. Lightly grease the foil with nonstick spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Marinate Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. This step infuses the shrimp with robust flavors.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Gently add the grated Parmesan cheese to the shrimp mixture and toss carefully to ensure an even coating. The olive oil helps the cheese stick to the shrimp.
- Thread Shrimp onto Skewers: Thread 4–5 shrimp onto each soaked skewer, piercing through both thick and thin ends to secure them firmly and evenly.
- Broil Shrimp Skewers: Arrange the skewers in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Broil for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and the Parmesan cheese crust becomes golden and slightly crisp.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the oven, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy the vibrant and savory flavors while hot.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers is crucial to prevent them from burning under the broiler.
- Adjust crushed red pepper flakes to taste or omit if you prefer less heat.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese for the best texture and flavor adherence.
- Serve immediately after broiling for optimal texture and taste.
- Can be served as an appetizer or a main dish when paired with a side salad or rice.
