How to Make Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp
This easy-to-follow method ensures that your shrimp turn out perfectly baked with a golden, crispy topping every time.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or cast-iron skillet to prevent sticking and enhance crispiness.
Step 2: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp with melted butter, minced garlic, salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to evenly coat the shrimp in flavorful butter.
Step 3: Arrange in Baking Dish
Lay the seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the prepared baking dish. Ensure they are slightly overlapping but not piled up to allow even cooking.
Step 4: Make the Crispy Topping
In a separate bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, olive oil, and lemon zest. Stir until the breadcrumbs are evenly coated and have a slightly moist texture.
Step 5: Sprinkle and Bake
Evenly sprinkle the crispy breadcrumb mixture over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is covered. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and the topping becomes golden brown.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the shrimp from the oven and let them rest for a minute. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for an added burst of citrus flavor. Enjoy warm!
How Long to Bake Shrimp
Baking shrimp is a quick process, and the key is to cook them just until they turn pink and opaque while keeping them tender and juicy. Here are some general guidelines based on shrimp size:
- Small Shrimp (51-60 count per pound) – Bake for 8-10 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
- Medium Shrimp (41-50 count per pound) – Bake for 10-12 minutes.
- Large Shrimp (31-40 count per pound) – Bake for 12-15 minutes.
- Jumbo Shrimp (16-30 count per pound) – Bake for 15-18 minutes.
Keep an eye on the shrimp as they bake, as overcooking can result in a rubbery texture. The shrimp should be firm but still juicy, with a golden brown topping.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftover Magic Crispy Baked Shrimp, you can store them properly to enjoy later. Here’s how:
- Refrigerator – Place leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezer – For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Shrimp
Follow these tips to ensure your shrimp turn out perfectly crispy and flavorful every time:
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs – Panko creates a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs, making for a more satisfying bite.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Dish – Arrange shrimp in a single layer to ensure even baking and crispiness.
- Add Extra Parmesan – For a deeper, umami-rich flavor, sprinkle additional Parmesan before baking.
- Broil for Extra Crispiness – For an even crispier topping, broil the shrimp for the last 2 minutes of baking, keeping a close watch to prevent burning.
- Serve with Dipping Sauce – Pair with garlic butter, cocktail sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon for an added flavor boost.
Save this recipe for later and enjoy a restaurant-quality shrimp dish right from your oven!
