Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp

Name: Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Fast Dinner Recipes

I absolutely adore this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp recipe! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of garlic, parmesan, and shrimp creates a heavenly experience that I often find myself craving. Whether I’m grilling for a party or just a casual dinner at home, this dish never fails to impress. The best part is how quickly everything comes together, making it an ideal choice for a busy weeknight or a weekend get-together. Trust me, this recipe will become a fast favorite in your household!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-04T18:17:27.905Z

When I first stumbled upon this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp recipe, I was skeptical. Would it really taste as good as it sounded? Well, I decided to give it a try, and I was instantly hooked! The shrimp marinate in a buttery garlic mixture that perfectly enhances their natural sweetness. Plus, the addition of Parmesan creates a rich, savory crust that’s simply irresistible.

I often like to grill the shrimp until they're just cooked through to maintain their tender consistency. Pro tip: be sure not to overcook them, as that can lead to a rubbery texture. Enjoying these on a summer evening with a refreshing drink is a culinary delight that I cherish!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp infused with savory garlic and rich Parmesan flavor.
Quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Great as a main dish or a delightful appetizer at gatherings.

The Importance of Quality Shrimp

When making Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp, the quality of shrimp is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Always opt for fresh, wild-caught shrimp when possible; they have a sweeter taste and firmer texture compared to farmed varieties. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before marinating. An easy method is to submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Look for shrimp that are slightly translucent and not overly slimy, which indicates freshness.

Shrimp should be medium-sized for this recipe, as they cook quickly and evenly. If you use larger shrimp, you may need to extend the grilling time an extra minute or so per side, keeping an eye on them for the telltale pink color and opaque texture. Conversely, if you use smaller shrimp, they will cook faster, so adjust your grilling time accordingly to avoid overcooking, which can give shrimp a rubbery texture.

Perfecting the Marinade

The marinade for this Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp not only enhances the flavor but also helps keep the shrimp moist during cooking. Letting the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes allows the garlic, butter, and Parmesan to infuse the shrimp. However, if time permits, you could marinate them for up to an hour in the refrigerator for a more intense flavor. Just be sure to bring them back to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.

Be mindful of the salt content in your Parmesan cheese when seasoning the marinade. Taste a small amount of the mixture before adding extra salt, as the cheese can add considerable saltiness. Additionally, feel free to experiment with the Italian seasoning by adding a pinch of crushed red pepper for some heat, or substituting it with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a vibrant twist.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Results

Preheating your grill to medium-high heat is essential to achieve those beautiful grill marks and a nice char on the shrimp. A temperature of around 350-400°F is ideal. If you're using a gas grill, preheat for at least 10-15 minutes, and if you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are ashed over. A clean, oiled grill helps prevent the shrimp from sticking and allows them to cook evenly.

Threading the marinated shrimp onto skewers simplifies handling on the grill. If you're using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning. For a different presentation, you can alternate shrimp with colorful vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini on the skewers. Just be aware that if you add veggies, they will take longer to cook, so cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking time.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a large bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.

Marinate the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing gently to coat. Let the shrimp marinate for at least 15 minutes at room temperature to absorb the flavors.

Preheat the Grill

While the shrimp marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.

Grill the Shrimp

Thread the shrimp onto skewers for easier grilling. Place them on the grill and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Serve

Remove the shrimp from the grill and transfer them to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

Pair the grilled shrimp with a light salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty kick!

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers after enjoying your Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They make for a delicious addition to salads or can be enjoyed cold as a snack. If you're planning to freeze leftovers, it’s best to separate them into smaller portions and place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

When reheating, avoid the microwave if possible, as it can overcook the shrimp. Instead, heat them in a skillet on medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until warmed through. Adding a touch of fresh butter can bring back some of that luscious flavor. For best results, enjoy them freshly grilled, as reheating can change the texture of the shrimp.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Shrimp can stand alone as a satisfying main dish, but they shine even brighter when paired with sides that complement their bold flavors. A light side salad with a citrus vinaigrette or garlic bread to soak up the flavorful butter sauce are excellent choices. Another option is to serve the shrimp over a bed of creamy risotto or pasta tossed with extra Parmesan and herbs for a more filling meal.

For gatherings, these shrimp also make an appealing appetizer. Serve them with cocktail sauce or a tangy lemon aioli for dipping. Adorning a platter with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh parsley not only enhances the presentation but adds a refreshing zing when the guests squeeze the lemon over the shrimp just before enjoying.

Flavor Variations

While this recipe is delightful as is, consider experimenting with different flavor profiles. For a tropical twist, add a splash of coconut milk to the marinade and serve the shrimp with a mango salsa. Alternatively, if you prefer a smoky flavor, marinate the shrimp with smoked paprika and grill them alongside corn on the cob for a festive summer vibe.

Herbs can also play a key role in enhancing this dish. Try substituting the Italian seasoning with fresh dill for a more coastal flavor, or use cilantro for a hint of freshness. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can lead to a delightful culinary experience every time you make this grilled shrimp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but be careful not to grill them for too long or they'll become tough.

→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?

You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Absolutely! Bake the shrimp in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 8-10 minutes.