Name: Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 26 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 0.25 cup unsalted butter, melted 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper; 0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 0.33 cup grated parmesan cheese; 0.33 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley zest of 1 lemon 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on skewers (wooden soaked for 30 min or metal) melted butter or garlic aioli lemon wedges

Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are the kind of appetizer that disappears faster than you can say “pass the plate.” Juicy shrimp are marinated in a garlicky butter sauce, coated with parmesan and breadcrumbs, then grilled or broiled until golden and crispy. It’s a flavor-packed bite that’s irresistible for seafood lovers and party guests alike.

Whether you’re serving them as a backyard BBQ starter or a weeknight dinner with a side salad, these shrimp skewers are all about big flavor and simple prep. They bring the elegance of a restaurant dish but are easy enough to whip up at home with minimal ingredients and time.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use for Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers?

Use large or jumbo shrimp (16/20 count or 21/25 count per pound), peeled and deveined. Leaving the tails on gives a nicer presentation and makes them easier to grab as finger food. Fresh or frozen both work—just make sure frozen shrimp are thawed completely and patted dry.

Raw shrimp are a must for this recipe so they don’t overcook. Pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery.

Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers

For the marinade:

1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

For the coating:

1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Zest of 1 lemon

For the shrimp:

1 pound large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count), peeled and deveined, tails on
Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

For serving:

Extra melted butter or garlic aioli for dipping
Lemon wedges

How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Rinse and pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Marinade

In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Toss the shrimp in the marinade and let them sit for 15–20 minutes to absorb the flavors.

Step 3: Mix the Coating

In a separate bowl, combine the grated parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, lemon zest, and chopped parsley. This mixture will add crunch and a cheesy finish.

Step 4: Skewer and Coat

Thread the marinated shrimp onto skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer. Press each side of the shrimp into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, coating them well. Gently press to help the coating stick.

Step 5: Grill or Broil

To grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill shrimp skewers for 2-3 minutes per side or until opaque and golden.

To broil: Place skewers on a lined baking sheet and broil on high for 2-4 minutes per side, watching closely to avoid burning.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately with lemon wedges and your choice of dipping sauce—extra melted garlic butter or aioli is perfect.

Serving and Storing Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers

These Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are best enjoyed fresh off the grill while still hot and crispy. Serve them with a squeeze of lemon juice, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, and a dipping sauce like garlic butter or aioli. They pair wonderfully with light sides such as roasted vegetables, a fresh garden salad, or buttery corn on the cob.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, use a toaster oven or skillet over medium heat to bring back some crispiness. Avoid microwaving, which can make the shrimp rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prep the shrimp and coat them a few hours ahead, storing them on a covered tray in the fridge. Wait to grill or broil until just before serving.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these skewers?

Garlic butter, lemon aioli, or even a spicy mayo work beautifully. You can also serve them plain with a fresh squeeze of lemon.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before marinating and coating.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp cook quickly! They’re ready when they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl into a “C” shape.

Can I cook these in an air fryer?

Absolutely! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the skewers in a single layer for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I serve alongside these skewers?

Rice pilaf, Caesar salad, roasted asparagus, or garlic bread all make fantastic sides for a complete meal.

Want More Seafood Ideas with Flavor?

If you’re a fan of these Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers, don’t stop here. Dive into more delicious dishes with bold, savory seafood flair:

Try the Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp for a citrusy, herby twist on the grill.
Whip up Fried Cabbage with Shrimp and Sausage for a comforting skillet dinner.
For creamy indulgence, the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli hits the spot.
Want soup with a kick? Easy Thai Red Curry Dumpling Soup blends spice and comfort.
Or explore Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for a buttery, flaky finish.

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so it’s easy to find next time seafood cravings strike. You can follow along for more daily recipe ideas here: Life with Jam on Pinterest

And don’t forget to drop a comment below when you try these skewers. Did you grill or broil? Add a spicy dip or go classic lemon?

I love seeing how you personalize each dish, and your questions and tips help others get it just right too!