Imagine coming home after a busy day and having a warm, cheesy shrimp dish ready in under 15 minutes. This sheet pan shrimp with cheddar and Parmesan is exactly that—juicy, perfectly roasted shrimp infused with savory spices and topped with rich, melty cheeses for an effortless dinner that feels decadent but is incredibly simple. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan adds layers of flavor and texture that will keep everyone reaching for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish brings an elegant yet approachable touch to your dinner table. Plus, using just one sheet pan means minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, highlighting the shrimp’s natural sweetness complemented by a crispy, cheesy crust.
- Quick and fuss-free meal perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Cheesy, savory toppings create a deliciously rich flavor with minimal ingredients.
- Sheet pan method means easy cleanup and evenly cooked, juicy shrimp every time.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp (500 g / 1 lb): Peeled and deveined for quick cooking and easy eating with a natural sweetness.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps evenly coat shrimp, adds richness, and promotes browning during roasting.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, savory flavor that complements seafood beautifully.
- Paprika (½ teaspoon): Adds mild smokiness and a subtle depth of color to enhance the dish visually and flavor-wise.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural shrimp flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Provides a gentle heat and complexity when roasted with the shrimp.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Melts into creamy pockets delivering sharp, tangy notes.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Offers nutty undertones and a slight crispness when baked.
- Chopped parsley or green onions (optional garnish): Adds fresh color and a bright herbal finish to the dish.
- Lemon wedges (optional for serving): Provide a zesty, acidic punch that balances the richness perfectly.
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare the Pan
-
Start by preheating your oven to 220°C (425°F) to ensure it reaches the ideal roasting temperature. Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup, while also allowing the shrimp to crisp up nicely.
- Season the Shrimp
-
In a mixing bowl, combine the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss thoroughly until every shrimp is well coated in the flavorful seasoning mix. Spreading them out in a single layer on the sheet pan allows even cooking and ensures they roast instead of steam.
- Add the Cheeses
-
Evenly sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the seasoned shrimp. Follow with the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt and bubble, forming a golden crust that enhances both taste and texture.
- Bake Until Perfectly Cooked
-
Bake the shrimp uncovered for 8–10 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re perfectly cooked. The cheese should be melted with slight golden spots for a delightful crispy finish.
- Garnish and Serve
-
Remove the sheet pan from the oven and sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh pop of color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side to squeeze over for vibrant acidity that brightens the whole dish.
- Adjust cooking time slightly based on shrimp size to avoid overcooking and ensure tenderness.
- Use fresh or thawed shrimp, pat dry for best roasting results and less moisture release.
- The combination of cheddar and Parmesan gives a balanced cheesy flavor—feel free to customize cheeses to your liking.
Storage Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in an oven or air fryer to preserve the crispy cheese topping and juicy shrimp texture.
Serving Suggestions
This cheesy shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, tossed into pasta for a seafood dinner, or alongside a fresh green salad for a light yet satisfying meal. A crusty bread to soak up juices is also a fantastic accompaniment.
- For a crispier cheese topping, switch the oven to broil for the last 1–2 minutes—watch closely to prevent burning.
- Adding a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes boosts heat if you prefer a spicier twist.
- Always peel and devein shrimp before cooking to improve tenderness and texture.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
-
Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning and baking to ensure even cooking and prevent excess moisture.
- What can I substitute for cheddar and Parmesan?
-
Try mozzarella and Romano cheeses for a milder but still flavorful cheesy topping with good meltability and texture.
- Is this recipe gluten-free?
-
Yes, it contains no gluten ingredients making it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets or celiac-friendly meals.
- Can I make this recipe spicier?
-
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika for a spicy kick tailored to your taste.
- How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
-
Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque; overbaking causes toughness. The short high-heat roast here keeps them tender.
- Can I prepare this ahead of time?
-
Assemble the shrimp and seasonings on the sheet pan, then refrigerate covered before baking. Bake fresh just before serving for best results.
- What sides go well with this shrimp dish?
-
It pairs nicely with rice, pasta, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad to balance the rich cheesy shrimp.
Sheet Pan Shrimp Cheddar Parmesan
Equipment
- 1 sheet pan lined with parchment paper or lightly greased
- 1 mixing bowl for seasoning shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
- Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and prepare a large sheet pan with parchment paper or grease.
- In a bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Arrange the seasoned shrimp in a single layer on the prepared sheet pan.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the shrimp, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes until shrimp are pink, opaque, and cheese is melted and golden.
- Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired.
- Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Swap cheeses with mozzarella and Romano for a flavor change.
- Add cayenne or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Broil 1–2 minutes for a crispier cheese topping.
- Perfect served with rice, pasta, or a crisp salad.
