Description
These Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are a quick, flavorful appetizer featuring juicy large shrimp coated in a garlicky, cheesy Parmesan blend, broiled to perfection with a hint of smoked paprika and a touch of heat from red pepper flakes. Perfect for entertaining or a speedy weeknight treat, they pair wonderfully with fresh lemon wedges and parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp (16–20 count)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Soak Skewers: Soak 4–6 wooden skewers in water for 20 minutes to prevent burning during broiling. Meanwhile, preheat your broiler to high and line a baking sheet with foil. Lightly grease the foil with nonstick spray or olive oil.
- Marinate Shrimp: In a large mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until all shrimp are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Add Parmesan: Gently toss the shrimp with grated Parmesan cheese ensuring each piece has an even coating; the oil helps the cheese stick to the shrimp.
- Thread Shrimp: Thread 4 to 5 shrimp onto each soaked skewer, piercing through the thick and thin ends to secure them so they stay in place while cooking.
- Broil Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp skewers on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the Parmesan crust is golden and slightly crisp.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the skewers from the oven and sprinkle them with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce.
Notes
- Soaking wooden skewers prevents them from burning under the broiler.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp as broiling happens quickly; overcooked shrimp can become tough.
- The addition of crushed red pepper flakes adds heat, but you can omit it for a milder flavor.
- If you don’t have a broiler, shrimp can also be grilled or cooked under a high oven setting.
- Use large shrimp for best results as they hold well on skewers and cook evenly.
