Description
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bites are a savory, bite-sized appetizer bursting with flavor. Plump, juicy shrimp are coated in a rich garlic butter sauce, then tossed with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, creating the perfect balance of creamy, garlicky goodness with a touch of saltiness from the cheese. These tender shrimp are lightly seasoned with herbs like parsley and a hint of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. Each bite is an irresistible combination of crispy, golden edges and succulent, tender shrimp. Perfect for parties, gatherings, or as a quick and delicious snack!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp Bites:
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- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh shrimp are the star of the show. Make sure they are well-drained and patted dry to ensure they sear beautifully.
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the shrimp and adding a bit of richness.
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- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning the shrimp.
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- Lemon zest: Adds a fresh citrus note that cuts through the richness of the butter sauce.
For the Garlic Parmesan Butter Sauce:
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- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Butter is the base of the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture.
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- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that bold, aromatic flavor.
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- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): Adds a touch of acidity and depth to the sauce.
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- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: A generous amount of Parmesan creates that irresistible cheesy coating.
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- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a touch of brightness to balance the richness of the dish.
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- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: A squeeze of lemon juice brightens up the flavor profile and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
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- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): If you like a little heat, the red pepper flakes add a subtle spicy kick to the sauce.
Instructions
Start by preparing the shrimp. If they’re frozen, make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this will help them sear nicely. Once dry, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and lemon zest. This simple seasoning adds a layer of flavor right from the start.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook the shrimp in batches if necessary. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. You should see them curl up and become slightly golden on the edges. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and let it melt completely. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.
At this point, you can add the white wine if you’re using it. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the wine to reduce slightly. If you’re skipping the wine, simply proceed with the next step.
Once the garlic and wine (if using) have cooked down, reduce the heat to low. Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet, stirring constantly to incorporate it into the butter. The cheese will melt into the sauce, creating a rich, creamy texture. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently in the garlic Parmesan sauce to coat each piece thoroughly. Let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until they are warmed through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Once the shrimp are fully coated in the creamy sauce, sprinkle the dish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. You can also add a little extra lemon zest on top if you want an extra citrus kick.
Serve the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Bites immediately, either on their own or with a side of crusty bread to mop up the extra sauce. They also pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, pasta, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 290 kcal
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Protein: 25g