Plump, juicy shrimp grilled to perfection with a golden garlic-parmesan crust — this is the kind of dish that steals the show at any summer cookout or cozy winter dinner. The shrimp get kissed by the heat of the grill while staying incredibly tender, and the savory combo of garlic, butter, herbs, and cheese clings to every bite.


Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or simply want a quick and flavorful weeknight meal, Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are the answer. They’re easy to prepare, loaded with umami-rich flavor, and pair beautifully with a wide variety of sides. Plus, they look stunning served hot off the grill.
What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?
Go for large or jumbo raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails on. The size helps them stay juicy while grilling, and the tails make them easier to grab and eat. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—if frozen, be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry.
Ingredients for the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
Shrimp – The main star, large or jumbo size preferred, for that juicy bite and elegant presentation.
Olive Oil – Helps the seasoning stick and adds a hint of richness.
Garlic – Freshly minced for a pungent, savory punch that complements the shrimp perfectly.
Parmesan Cheese – Finely grated, it melts slightly on the grill and forms a crisp, cheesy crust.
Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.
Breadcrumbs (Panko) – Adds a bit of texture and crunch to the topping.
Chopped Parsley – Fresh, vibrant herbiness to finish.
Salt & Pepper – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the other flavors.
How To Make the Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let them marinate for 15–20 minutes while you prepare the grill or preheat a grill pan.
Step 2: Prepare the Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, Panko breadcrumbs, and a touch of parsley. This mixture will cling to the shrimp and form that deliciously crisp topping.
Step 3: Skewer the Shrimp
Thread the shrimp onto wooden or metal skewers, about 5–6 per stick. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes beforehand to prevent burning.
Step 4: Grill the Skewers
Heat your grill to medium-high. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, brushing with more marinade as they cook. After flipping once, sprinkle the Parmesan mixture over the shrimp so it gets a chance to melt and toast.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once the shrimp are opaque and slightly charred, remove them from the grill. Garnish with extra parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

How to Serve and Store Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
Serve these skewers hot, right off the grill, for best flavor and texture. They’re perfect as a main dish, appetizer, or party platter centerpiece. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers?
Lemon Herb Rice
Bright, fluffy rice with a hint of citrus complements the richness of the shrimp.
Parmesan Baked Potatoes
Crispy, cheesy potato halves that echo the parmesan flavors of the skewers. Parmesan Baked Potatoes
Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
Double up on shrimp goodness with a bolder, saucy companion. Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
Crispy Fried Zucchini
Golden veggie fries add a crunchy contrast and soak up leftover garlic butter beautifully. Crispy Fried Zucchini
Light Sourdough Focaccia
Great for soaking up all that garlicky, lemony juice. Sourdough Focaccia
Want More Seafood Ideas?
If you love these Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers, you’ll definitely want to try these next:
- Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce for spicy, buttery indulgence.
- Creamy Jamaican Shrimp Rasta Pasta if you’re craving something creamy and Caribbean-inspired.
- Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa for a colorful, refreshing twist.
- Shrimp Butter Spread Recipe if you’re looking for a savory seafood spread.
- Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara when you want a hearty pasta packed with flavor.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to whip it up again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe a splash of bourbon or a drizzle of glaze? I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop your tips or questions in the comments below.
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen.com on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Looking for an easy dinner recipe that delivers restaurant-style flavor in under 30 minutes? These Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Skewers are juicy, garlicky, and beautifully crisp on the outside thanks to a parmesan-panko crust. Perfect for quick weeknight meals, summer grilling, or impressive appetizers, this seafood dish is light, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re hunting for healthy snack ideas, crowd-pleasing dinner ideas, or a protein-packed lunch, this easy recipe is a keeper.
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let marinate for 15–20 minutes.
2. In another bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and parsley.
3. Thread shrimp onto skewers (5–6 per skewer).
4. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
5. Grill shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, brushing with extra marinade as they cook.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan mixture on shrimp after flipping, letting it toast and melt.
7. Remove from grill when shrimp are opaque and slightly charred.
8. Serve hot with lemon wedges and extra parsley if desired.
Notes
Use fresh garlic and fresh parsley for the most vibrant flavor.
If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 skewer (approx. 1/4 recipe)
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: easy dinner, grilled shrimp, shrimp skewers, healthy snack, seafood recipe
