Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp (Keto-Friendly & Low-Carb)
This Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp recipe is an easy and flavorful dish that combines the richness of parmesan cheese and the savory punch of garlic. Perfect for a low-carb or keto-friendly meal, it’s quick to prepare and makes for an impressive dinner or appetizer.

Ingredients (Serves 4):

  • 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
  • 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
  • 4 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (freshly grated is best)
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for a fresh zing)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.

2. Prepare the Shrimp:

  • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This ensures the shrimp will bake up crispy.

3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Mixture:

  • In a small bowl, combine the olive oil (or melted butter), minced garlic, grated parmesan cheese, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

4. Coat the Shrimp:

  • Place the shrimp in a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan mixture over the shrimp and toss to coat them evenly.

5. Arrange the Shrimp:

  • Arrange the shrimp in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. You can also place them in a baking dish if preferred.

6. Bake:

  • Bake the shrimp in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes or until they are opaque and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp as they can become tough.

7. Garnish and Serve:

  • Once the shrimp is cooked, remove from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (optional). Serve immediately with your favorite low-carb side dish or over zoodles (zucchini noodles) for a complete meal.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, for 4 servings):

  • Calories: ~180 kcal
  • Net Carbs: 2g
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Fiber: 1g

Tips for Success:

  1. Perfectly Cooked Shrimp:
    • Don’t overcook the shrimp. They should be opaque and slightly curled but tender. Overcooking makes them rubbery.
  2. Fresh Parmesan:
    • For the best flavor and texture, use freshly grated parmesan cheese. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
  3. Customize the Flavor:
    • Add a squeeze of lemon juice, a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat, or some fresh basil for a twist on flavor.
  4. Make It Crispy:
    • If you want an extra crispy finish, broil the shrimp for the last 1-2 minutes of baking.

Recipe Variations:

  1. Garlic Butter Shrimp:
    • Use melted butter in place of olive oil for a richer, more buttery flavor.
  2. Cheesy Shrimp Bake:
    • Add an extra layer of cheese like mozzarella or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to create a cheesy crust.
  3. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp:
    • Add more red pepper flakes or some chopped jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.

Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp:

  • Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly: This dish is high in protein and healthy fats while being low in carbs, making it perfect for keto or low-carb diets.
  • Quick & Easy: It comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a great weeknight dinner or an easy appetizer for guests.
  • High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, which helps build muscle and keep you full longer.
  • Packed with Nutrients: Garlic has been shown to have immune-boosting properties, and the healthy fats from olive oil or butter are great for supporting your body’s natural functions.

Enjoy this Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp as a tasty, satisfying dish that fits into your keto lifestyle! 🍤🧄🧀