If you love creamy shrimp dishes, this baked version is an easy one to keep in your dinner rotation. Plump shrimp bake in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, then get topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan for a dish that’s simple to make but full of flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. Every shrimp gets bathed in a flavorful cream sauce as it bakes.
- That cheesy, bubbly topping. Mozzarella and Parmesan melt together for a golden finish.
- Ready in 25 minutes. A quick, indulgent dinner that doesn’t take much effort.
- Minimal prep, big flavor. Just a few steps stand between you and a rich, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 cup heavy cream
For the Topping
- ½ cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ⅓ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
1. Prepare the shrimp. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Season evenly with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Add the garlic butter. In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pour the garlic butter evenly over the shrimp.
3. Add the cream. Slowly pour the heavy cream around and over the shrimp, making sure the bottom of the baking dish is evenly coated.
4. Add the cheese. Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the shrimp, then finish with the grated Parmesan.
5. Bake until bubbly. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
6. Finish and serve. Broil for 1 to 2 minutes if you want a lightly golden top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp immediately.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
- Keep the shrimp in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and ensures every piece gets plenty of the creamy sauce.
- Watch closely near the end of baking. Shrimp can turn rubbery if overcooked, so check for doneness starting around the 12-minute mark.
- Broil carefully if using that step. It only takes a minute or two to get a golden top, and it can go too far quickly if left unattended.
- Serve immediately. This dish is best enjoyed hot, right out of the oven while the sauce is still bubbly.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
This dish pairs well with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the rich cream sauce. A simple side salad also works well if you want something lighter alongside.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking.
Can I substitute the heavy cream?
Half-and-half can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be thinner and less rich than with heavy cream.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Gruyère or a Monterey Jack blend would also work well in place of mozzarella.

Creamy Garlic Butter Baked Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 375°F. Lightly grease a baking dish and arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Season evenly with paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the melted butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice. Pour the garlic butter evenly over the shrimp.
- Slowly pour the heavy cream around and over the shrimp, making sure the bottom of the baking dish is evenly coated.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over the shrimp, then finish with the grated Parmesan.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbling.
- Broil for 1 to 2 minutes if you want a lightly golden top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp immediately.
