Description
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers feature juicy, buttery shrimp infused with bold garlic flavor and finished with a crispy Parmesan coating. Ready in about 20 minutes, these skewers are perfect for grilling or quick oven broiling, offering a delicious and easy seafood dish ideal for summer meals or any time you want a flavorful appetizer or main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Marinade
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tails on optional)
- 3 tbsp melted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked if you like heat)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Coating and Skewering
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Wooden or metal skewers (if wooden, soaked in water for 15 minutes)
Instructions
- Prep: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 15 minutes to prevent burning during cooking. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly to ensure they char nicely instead of steaming.
- Make Garlic Butter: In a bowl, mix the melted butter with minced garlic, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using) to create a flavorful garlic butter marinade.
- Skewer: Thread about 4–5 shrimp onto each skewer. Brush the shrimp generously with the garlic butter mixture. Then, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese evenly over both sides of the shrimp to create a crispy crust.
- Cook (Grill Option – Best Flavor): Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F / 200°C). Place skewers on the grill and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and develop a slight char.
- Cook (Oven Broil Option – Fast & Easy): Place skewers on a broiler pan and broil on high for 2–3 minutes per side, watching closely as shrimp cook quickly to avoid overcooking.
- Finish: Drizzle the cooked shrimp skewers with fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve immediately to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Do not overcook shrimp; they are done when opaque and form a C-shape.
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides better melting and browning than pre-shredded varieties.
- For extra crispiness, sprinkle a small amount of panko breadcrumbs on shrimp before broiling.
- If using wooden skewers, soaking is essential to prevent burning on the grill or under the broiler.
- Serve skewers over pasta, on Caesar salad, alongside garlic bread, or with rice and grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
