Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe aroma of sizzling garlic wafts through the air, instantly transporting me to a cozy Italian trattoria. Today, I’m excited to share a dish that never fails to impress: Classic Shrimp Parmigiana. This delightful recipe showcases perfectly fried shrimp, enveloped in a luscious marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella—making it an exceptional comfort food. Not only is this dish incredibly satisfying, but it’s also surprisingly easy to whip up, which means you can serve it on any busy weeknight without stress. Whether you enjoy it over a bed of pasta or tucked into a sandwich, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or an intimate dinner for two. So, are you ready to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen? Let’s dive in! Why is Shrimp Parmigiana a Must-Try? Comforting, Classic Dish: This Shrimp Parmigiana brings the warmth of Italian-American cuisine right to your table. Flavor Explosion: The rich marinara sauce paired with crispy shrimp delivers an irresistible taste sensation. Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have this masterpiece ready in no time! Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over pasta for a hearty meal or as a sandwich for a quick lunch. Crowd-Pleaser: Whether for family dinners or special gatherings, this dish appeals to all seafood lovers! For an exciting twist, try pairing it with a side of Coconut Shrimp Thai or Spicy Shrimp Avocado for variety. Shrimp Parmigiana Ingredients • Dive into the essential ingredients for this classic dish! For the Marinara Sauce Hand-Crushed Plum Tomatoes – A robust base for the marinara; opt for fresh for brighter flavors. Garlic – Fresh garlic intensifies the aromatic depth; don’t skip it for the best taste. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enriches the sauce; essential for authentic Italian flavor. Crushed Hot Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a gentle heat; omit for a milder touch. Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Key seasonings that bring the sauce and shrimp to life; adjust to your preference. For the Shrimp Shrimp (U 21-25) – The star of the dish; deveined and butterflied for easier enjoyment; fresh is great, but frozen works, too. All-Purpose Flour – Creates a wonderful golden crust; gluten-free flour makes a lovely substitute. Garlic Powder – Enhances the flavor in the dredging mixture for added depth. Large Eggs – Binds breadcrumbs to shrimp during breading; be sure to beat them well for even coverage. Italian Seasoned Breadcrumbs – Gives a crispy texture and a flavorful boost to the shrimp; feel free to make your own! For Frying & Topping Olive or Vegetable Oil – Vital for frying; keep at 360°F for the perfect golden shrimp. Shredded Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully on top; swap for fresh mozzarella if you desire. Pecorino Romano Cheese – Adds a tangy kick; Parmesan is a good alternative if needed. Fresh Basil Leaves – Optional, but recommended for a fresh pop of flavor and presentation. Let these ingredients inspire your cooking adventure and bring the charm of Shrimp Parmigiana into your home! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Shrimp Parmigiana Step 1: Prepare Marinara Sauce Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add four sliced garlic cloves and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in a pinch of crushed hot red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat, followed by 28 ounces of hand-crushed plum tomatoes. Simmer the sauce gently for 10 minutes, then season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Keep it warm on low heat. Step 2: Dredge Shrimp In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Dredge 1 pound of deveined and butterflied shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Next, dip the floured shrimp into two beaten large eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat each shrimp with 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing down gently for an even layer. Step 3: Fry Shrimp In a Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of olive or vegetable oil to 360°F over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded shrimp in batches into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp onto paper towels to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy and delicious while you fry the remaining shrimp. Step 4: Assemble for Baking Preheat your oven to 425°F. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on top. Pour more marinara sauce over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well covered. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top, followed by half of the ½ cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese for added flavor. Step 5: Bake Transfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Switch the oven to broil, carefully watching as you broil the dish for 30-60 seconds, until the top is beautifully golden and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and finish with the remaining Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh torn basil leaves for a delightful flavor boost before serving. Expert Tips for Shrimp Parmigiana Don’t Rush the Frying: Fry shrimp in batches to ensure they cook evenly and maintain that coveted crispy texture. Overcrowding will lead to soggy results. Check Oil Temperature: Use a thermometer to maintain oil at 360°F. If it’s too low, the shrimp won’t fry properly; too high, and they can burn. Quality Marinara Matters: Homemade marinara sauce truly elevates the shrimp parmigiana. Take time to allow the sauce to simmer for maximum flavor. Breadcrumb Consistency: Ensure your breadcrumbs are evenly distributed on the shrimp for consistent crispiness. Homemade breadcrumbs can be a great alternative! Cooling Time: Let the fried shrimp drain on paper towels for a minute before assembly. This helps remove excess oil and improves texture when baking. Garnish for Flavor: Fresh basil not only adds aromatic beauty but enhances the overall taste of your Shrimp Parmigiana! Shrimp Parmigiana Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize your Shrimp Parmigiana with the following tasty ideas and alternatives! Chicken Substitute: Use chicken breast or thighs in place of shrimp for a different protein that still delivers comfort and flavor. Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free mix, making this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Vegan Twist: Try using eggplant slices breaded in a similar way for a delightful vegan version that offers a hearty bite. Cheese Variations: Mix mozzarella with provolone or fontina for richer layers of flavor—don’t be afraid to experiment with your favorites! Veggie Boost: Enhance your marinara by adding sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and deliciousness that pairs perfectly with the shrimp. Extra Heat: If you like it spicy, add more crushed red pepper flakes to the marinara or toss in some diced jalapeño for a kick! Oven-Baked: For a lighter option, bake the breaded shrimp instead of frying. Simply coat them lightly with oil, bake at 425°F for about 10-12 minutes, and then assemble as normal. Herbed Ricotta: Add dollops of herbed ricotta cheese on top before baking for an extra creamy, herby finish that elevates each bite into something special. For more delicious shrimp recipes, you might enjoy trying out a dish like Coconut Shrimp Thai or perhaps a scrumptious Garlic Butter Shrimp for variety! Happy cooking! Make Ahead Options These Classic Shrimp Parmigiana are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the marinara sauce and bread the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply refrigerate the sauce in an airtight container and keep the breaded shrimp on a baking sheet in the fridge. When it’s time to finish off the dish, preheat your oven to 425°F, layer the shrimp and marinara in a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Pecorino Romano, and bake for about 5 minutes until golden. This way, you’ll serve up restaurant-quality results with minimal effort, making weeknight dinners a breeze! What to Serve with Classic Shrimp Parmigiana There’s a wonderful world of sides that can elevate your Shrimp Parmigiana dinner experience to new heights. Garlic Bread: Perfectly golden and buttery, it’s ideal for soaking up the rich marinara sauce and adds a delightful crunch to every bite. Creamy Polenta: This smooth and comforting side complements the crispy shrimp beautifully, providing a delicious contrast in texture while enhancing the Mediterranean vibe. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons bring freshness and balance to your meal, cutting through the dish’s richness. Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus drizzled with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt adds a vibrant color and flavor, bringing a touch of brightness to the plate. Lemon Risotto: Creamy and zesty, lemon risotto pairs exquisitely with the shrimp’s richness, introducing a pop of brightness that will tantalize your taste buds. Moscato Wine: Its sweet, fruity notes perfectly complement the savory shrimp and marinara, enhancing the overall dining experience with a touch of elegance. Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat adds a sweet finish with its indulgent layers of coffee and chocolate, leaving everyone satisfied and happy. Adding these sides and drinks will surely create a memorable culinary journey around your Shrimp Parmigiana! How to Store and Freeze Shrimp Parmigiana Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To preserve crispness, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the assembled but unbaked Shrimp Parmigiana for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight. Bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes, or until heated all the way through and the cheese is bubbly. Best Enjoyed Fresh: While the flavors of Shrimp Parmigiana so intensify when fresh, proper storage ensures you can savor this comfort food later! Shrimp Parmigiana Recipe FAQs How do I select the best shrimp for Shrimp Parmigiana? Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for “U 21-25” sized shrimp, which indicates they’re large and meaty. Ensure they are firm and have a mild, fresh scent—avoid any shrimp with dark spots or a strong odor. If using frozen shrimp, let them thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture. What is the best way to store leftover Shrimp Parmigiana? The more the merrier with leftovers! Place any uneaten Shrimp Parmigiana in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes to keep the shrimp crispy and the cheese gooey. Can I freeze Shrimp Parmigiana for later? Yes, you can! To freeze Shrimp Parmigiana, assemble the dish but do not bake it. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake at 350°F for 30-40 minutes or until bubbly. How do I keep the shrimp crispy before serving? Great question! After frying, let the shrimp drain on paper towels to remove excess oil. Additionally, when assembling the dish, avoid stacking the shrimp too tightly and allow them to breathe in the oven. Baking rather than frying can also result in a lighter, crispier dish if you prefer. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute all-purpose flour and regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives. If serving to small children or those with seafood allergies, consider replacing shrimp with chicken or eggplant, which makes for a delightful variation that everyone can enjoy. What can I do if my shrimp aren’t cooking evenly? If you find that your shrimp aren’t cooking evenly, ensure that your frying oil is at the right temperature (360°F) and fry in small batches. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking, making some shrimp soggy while others may be perfectly crisp. If you need to, clean the oil and start fresh for the best results! Irresistible Shrimp Parmigiana: Comfort in Every Bite Enjoy the classic dish Shrimp Parmigiana with fried shrimp, marinara sauce, and mozzarella for a cozy dinner experience. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 40 minutes minsCooling Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinara Sauce28 ounces hand-crushed plum tomatoes Opt for fresh for brighter flavors.4 cloves garlic Fresh garlic intensifies the aromatic depth.2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil Essential for authentic Italian flavor.1 pinch crushed hot red pepper flakes Adds a gentle heat; omit for a milder touch.kosher salt & black pepper Adjust to your preference.For the Shrimp1 pound shrimp (U 21-25) Deveined and butterflied for easier enjoyment.1 cup all-purpose flour Gluten-free flour makes a lovely substitute.1 teaspoon garlic powder Enhances the flavor in the dredging mixture.2 large eggs Beat well for even coverage.1 cup Italian seasoned breadcrumbs Feel free to make your own!For Frying & Topping1 inch olive or vegetable oil Keep at 360°F for the perfect golden shrimp.2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese Swap for fresh mozzarella if desired.½ cup Pecorino Romano cheese Add a tangy kick; Parmesan is a good alternative.fresh basil leaves Optional, but recommended for flavor. Equipment SaucepanShallow DishDutch ovenbaking dishSlotted spoonOven Method Prepare Marinara SauceHeat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add four sliced garlic cloves and sauté until golden and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in a pinch of crushed hot red pepper flakes if you’d like some heat, followed by 28 ounces of hand-crushed plum tomatoes. Simmer the sauce gently for 10 minutes, then season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Keep it warm on low heat.Dredge ShrimpIn a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Dredge 1 pound of deveined and butterflied shrimp in the flour mixture, ensuring each piece is well coated. Next, dip the floured shrimp into two beaten large eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat each shrimp with 1 cup of Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing down gently for an even layer.Fry ShrimpIn a Dutch oven, heat about 1 inch of olive or vegetable oil to 360°F over medium-high heat. Carefully place the breaded shrimp in batches into the hot oil, frying for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy on both sides. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the fried shrimp onto paper towels to drain any excess oil, keeping them crispy and delicious while you fry the remaining shrimp.Assemble for BakingPreheat your oven to 425°F. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish, then arrange the fried shrimp in a single layer on top. Pour more marinara sauce over the shrimp, ensuring each piece is well covered. Sprinkle 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly across the top, followed by half of the ½ cup of grated Pecorino Romano cheese for added flavor.BakeTransfer the assembled dish to the preheated oven and bake for approximately 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Switch the oven to broil, carefully watching as you broil the dish for 30-60 seconds, until the top is beautifully golden and crispy. Once done, remove from the oven and finish with the remaining Pecorino Romano cheese and fresh torn basil leaves before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 300mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 8mg NotesExperts recommend not to rush the frying process to maintain crispiness and to ensure the quality of the marinara sauce for the best results. 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