If your weeknights feel like a whirlwind (mine sure do!), then this Parmesan Crusted Shrimp recipe might just become your new best friend. It’s quick, flavorful, and comes together faster than your kids can ask, “What’s for dinner?”
I first whipped this up on a hectic Tuesday, craving something comforting but light. The crispy lemon potatoes and roasted broccoli turned it into a wholesome meal-in-a-bowl, and my picky eater even asked for seconds. Whether you’re juggling Zoom calls or carpools, this shrimp dish brings restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss. You’ll wonder how you lived without it.
Why You’ll Love This Parmesan Crusted Shrimp
This dish is the trifecta of weeknight wins—fast, flavorful, and family-approved. From the crispy lemon potatoes to the garlicky parmesan shrimp, every bite feels like a little victory. It’s perfect for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s all made with simple pantry staples—no fancy ingredients, just real food that brings real joy.
Ingredients Parmesan Crusted Shrimp
If your pantry looks anything like mine—half full, a little random, but full of hope—you’re in luck! This Parmesan Crusted Shrimp recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that you probably already have on hand. And if not, don’t worry—I’ve got some swaps and suggestions to keep things flexible.
- Large shrimp: Fresh or frozen (just thaw first). I go for peeled and deveined to save time.
- Broccoli florets: Adds a roasted crunch and soaks up flavor beautifully. Frozen broccoli works in a pinch!
- Baby potatoes: Quartered for faster roasting. Yukon gold or red potatoes are also great here.
- Olive oil: Used to roast and season everything. Avocado oil is a good alternative if that’s your go-to.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated is best for coating the shrimp. Freshly grated gives the best flavor punch.
- Garlic powder: Adds that cozy, savory depth without the fuss of peeling garlic.
- Smoked paprika: A smoky kick that takes shrimp to the next level. Regular paprika works too.
- Lemon zest: Brightens up the potatoes beautifully. Don’t skip—it adds magic.
- Lemon juice: A squeeze at the end lifts all the flavors. Fresh is best, bottled in a pinch.
- Dried oregano: Earthy and comforting, it pairs perfectly with both the potatoes and broccoli.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential flavor boosters. Add to taste and adjust as you go.
- Fresh parsley: For garnish. Totally optional, but it makes the bowl look like a chef’s special.
- Extra Parmesan: Because more cheese is always a good idea, especially on top before serving.
All exact measurements and printable instructions are at the bottom of this post—feel free to scroll or print for later!
How to Make Parmesan Crusted Shrimp
This Parmesan Crusted Shrimp recipe is a breeze to make, even on your busiest nights. I like to prep everything while the oven preheats, so the timing flows like a well-rehearsed kitchen dance. Each step builds bold flavor, and trust me—your house is going to smell amazing!
Step 1 – Roast the Crispy Lemon Potatoes
First, toss your quartered baby potatoes with olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. I use a big bowl and my hands—it’s faster and more fun that way. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. No crowding! That’s the secret to getting them golden and crisp, not soggy.
Roast at 425°F for about 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway if you remember (I don’t always). These crispy lemon potatoes are the kind of side that disappears before they hit the plate—so maybe make extra.
Step 2 – Prepare and Roast the Broccoli
While your potatoes do their thing, grab your broccoli florets. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, salt, and pepper. I like to keep the seasoning simple here so the broccoli roasts up with those irresistible charred edges.
Pop them in the oven during the last 15 to 20 minutes of the potato roasting time. You’ll know they’re done when the tips are a little crispy and the stems are fork-tender. This really brings that roasted broccoli shrimp recipe magic to life.
Step 3 – Season and Sear the Shrimp
Time to show the shrimp some love. In a bowl, toss them with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and a little olive oil. They should be well-coated and glistening. Heat a skillet—cast iron if you have it—until it’s nice and hot.
Sear the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side. They’ll turn golden with a slightly crisp edge. Don’t walk away—they cook fast! This step is where that garlic parmesan shrimp flavor starts to shine through.
Step 4 – Add the Parmesan Crust
While the shrimp are still hot (and I mean hot), toss them with grated Parmesan and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The cheese melts slightly and clings to each shrimp like a hug. I usually sneak one at this point—chef’s treat!
The lemon adds a burst of brightness that cuts through the richness of the cheese. It’s the flavor finale that ties this weeknight shrimp meal together.
Step 5 – Assemble Your Shrimp Dinner Bowl
Time to build your shrimp dinner bowl. Start with a base of those crispy potatoes, then layer in the roasted broccoli. Pile on the Parmesan crusted shrimp and sprinkle everything with chopped parsley and a little extra cheese, if you’re feeling indulgent.
It’s colorful, balanced, and ridiculously satisfying. Whether you’re serving one or feeding a crowd, this easy shrimp and veggie dinner makes everyone feel like they’re eating something special.
Tips for Success
- Use a hot skillet for shrimp—this gives you that perfect sear without overcooking.
- Don’t crowd the baking sheet—spread potatoes and broccoli out for max crispiness.
- Toss shrimp in Parmesan while they’re hot so the cheese clings beautifully.
- Pre-chop veggies during meal prep to save even more time on busy nights.
- Fresh lemon zest makes all the difference—don’t skip it!
Equipment Needed
- Large baking sheet: For roasting the potatoes and broccoli—use two if you want extra crispiness.
- Mixing bowls: Helpful for seasoning shrimp and tossing veggies.
- Skillet or frying pan: Cast iron works best for a great sear, but any nonstick pan will do.
- Tongs or spatula: For flipping shrimp and stirring veggies safely.
- Zester or grater: For fresh lemon zest—totally worth it for the flavor boost.
Variations
- Swap the potatoes: For a lower-carb twist, try roasted cauliflower or turnips instead of baby potatoes. They crisp up beautifully and still pair well with the shrimp.
- Go spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp seasoning for a little heat. It gives the Parmesan Crusted Shrimp a bold kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Make it dairy-free: Skip the Parmesan and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor that’s completely plant-based. It still gives you that savory crust!
- Try different veggies: Swap broccoli for Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or even asparagus—whatever your fridge or garden offers up that day.
- Serve over grains: Not in the mood for potatoes? Spoon everything over quinoa, rice, or couscous for a different kind of shrimp dinner bowl.
- Add a sauce: A drizzle of garlic aioli or lemon-tahini dressing can elevate this into a gourmet-feeling easy shrimp and veggie dinner.
- Make it Mediterranean-style: Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta to give the bowl a fresh Greek flair.
- Kid-friendly version: Skip the smoked paprika and serve the shrimp with ketchup or ranch on the side—it works like magic for picky eaters.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to keep things light and refreshing.
- Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with citrus slices.
- Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge for that restaurant-style finishing touch.
- For a cozy dinner, add warm crusty bread to soak up all the flavorful juices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this Parmesan Crusted Shrimp with frozen shrimp?
A: Absolutely! I do it all the time. Just make sure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning and searing. Extra moisture can prevent that perfect golden crust we’re going for. Frozen shrimp are a busy cook’s best friend—fast, affordable, and always ready to shine in a Parmesan Crusted Shrimp recipe like this.
Q: What can I use instead of potatoes for a low-carb version?
A: Great question! For a low-carb twist, I love swapping the crispy lemon potatoes with roasted cauliflower or turnips. They roast beautifully and still soak up all the flavor. You can also serve your shrimp dinner bowl over sautéed greens, spaghetti squash, or even riced cauliflower if you’re watching carbs but don’t want to miss out on texture.
Q: How do I store leftovers from this weeknight shrimp meal?
A: Leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to keep the textures intact. Microwaving works in a pinch, but it might soften the shrimp a bit. I usually separate the shrimp from the veggies when reheating for best results in this weeknight shrimp meal.
Q: Can I make this into an easy shrimp and veggie dinner for meal prep?
A: Yes, yes, and yes! This is one of my go-to meal prep bowls. Just double the recipe and store the Parmesan Crusted Shrimp, roasted broccoli, and potatoes in separate containers. That way, you can mix and match throughout the week. It reheats well and keeps lunch exciting—no sad desk lunches here!
Q: Is this roasted broccoli shrimp recipe kid-friendly?
A: It sure can be! My youngest was skeptical until I skipped the smoked paprika and added a little ranch on the side. Suddenly, the roasted broccoli shrimp recipe became a hit. You can also serve the shrimp separately with their favorite dip. The crispy potatoes help win them over too—it’s like a fancy version of nuggets and fries!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about tossing together a warm, cozy dinner that feels both effortless and indulgent. This Parmesan Crusted Shrimp recipe brings together crispy textures, bright flavors, and wholesome ingredients in one cheerful bowl. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a kitchen rockstar—even on a Tuesday. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding your hungry crew, this dish delivers comfort, flavor, and just the right amount of crunch. I hope it brings the same joy to your table as it does to mine—one delicious bite at a time.
PrintParmesan Crusted Shrimp Recipe with Crispy Potatoes
A flavorful and easy weeknight shrimp meal featuring Parmesan crusted shrimp, crispy lemon potatoes, and roasted broccoli, all served in a hearty dinner bowl.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting & Searing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 cups baby potatoes, quartered
- 3 tbsp olive oil (divided)
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Extra grated Parmesan for topping
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss quartered baby potatoes with 1.5 tbsp olive oil, lemon zest, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Spread on a baking sheet and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and crispy.
- On the same or a separate baking sheet, toss broccoli florets with remaining olive oil, salt, and black pepper. Roast for 15–20 minutes until charred and tender.
- In a bowl, mix shrimp with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Sear in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
- While shrimp are still hot, toss them with grated Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Assemble bowls with crispy potatoes, roasted broccoli, and Parmesan crusted shrimp. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time; just adjust searing time accordingly.
- Try sweet potatoes or cauliflower as alternative veggies.
- Double the recipe for meal prep or family dinners.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 190mg

