Crispy Baked Shrimp Recipe
Crispy Baked Shrimp is a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy shrimp without deep frying. Coated in a crunchy seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, this shrimp is tender on the inside and crispy on the outside. Perfect for weeknight dinners, appetizers, or game day snacks, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is simple, fast, and healthier than traditional fried shrimp. The combination of spices, panko breadcrumbs, and a light coating of olive oil creates a crunchy, flavorful crust, while the shrimp stays juicy and tender. It’s perfect on its own or served with dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, aioli, or tartar sauce.
Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 1g
Time Taken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Lemon wedges for serving
- Optional dipping sauce: cocktail sauce, aioli, or tartar sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the shrimp with olive oil, then coat each shrimp in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the baking sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your favorite dipping sauce.
You Must Know
- Use large shrimp for best results, as they hold up well to baking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give shrimp space for maximum crispiness.
- Freshly grated Parmesan gives a better texture and flavor than pre-grated.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a 375°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Use almond flour or crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free breadcrumb option.
- Swap paprika with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Coconut oil can replace olive oil for a slightly different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve crispy baked shrimp over a bed of rice, pasta, or salad. Pair with dipping sauces like cocktail sauce, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo.
Cultural and Historical Context
Shrimp is a popular seafood worldwide, often fried or sautéed. Baking shrimp with a crispy coating is a healthier adaptation of traditional fried shrimp, making it popular in modern home cooking.
Seasonal Adaptations
- Summer: Serve with fresh mango salsa or a citrusy slaw.
- Winter: Pair with creamy garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables.
Success Stories
Home cooks love this recipe for its simplicity, fast cooking time, and crispy texture without the mess of frying. It’s often praised as a go-to appetizer or quick weeknight dinner.
Freezer Meal Conversion
Bake the shrimp unseasoned, freeze in a single layer, then coat and bake when ready to serve. Avoid freezing after baking, as the crispiness may be lost.
Pro Tips
- Pat shrimp dry before coating to help the breadcrumbs stick.
- Use a light drizzle of olive oil instead of brushing for even coating.
- Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness if desired.
Chef’s Special Tips
- Add a pinch of cayenne or chili powder for a spicy kick.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for a fresh finish.
- Serve with garlic butter drizzled over the top for added indulgence.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Shrimp is a quick, healthy, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a crunchy exterior and tender, juicy shrimp inside, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Try this easy Crispy Baked Shrimp recipe tonight and enjoy golden, crunchy shrimp without the mess of frying!