Garlic Parmesan Baked Shrimp (WW-Friendly)
Juicy, garlicky baked shrimp topped with a light parmesan crust—low in calories, high in protein, and perfect for a Weight Watchers–friendly meal. Great for dinner, meal prep, or even a quick appetizer.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep: 10–15 minutes
- Cook: 10–12 minutes
- Total: ~25 minutes
Serves: 4
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1½ lb (700 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (or olive oil spray for lower points)
- 4–5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
Parmesan Topping
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp whole wheat breadcrumbs or almond flour (optional for crunch)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tsp lemon zest
Optional WW-Friendly Additions
- zucchini noodles (zoodles)
- cauliflower rice
- steamed broccoli
- cherry tomatoes
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven
Preheat oven to:
- 400°F (200°C)
Lightly grease a baking dish or line with parchment paper.
2. Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, combine shrimp with:
- olive oil
- garlic
- lemon juice
- paprika
- salt
- pepper
- Italian seasoning
- chili flakes (optional)
Toss until evenly coated.
3. Arrange in Baking Dish
Spread shrimp in a single layer in the baking dish.
Make sure they are not overlapping for even cooking.
4. Add Parmesan Topping
In a small bowl mix:
- parmesan cheese
- breadcrumbs or almond flour (optional)
- parsley
- lemon zest
Sprinkle evenly over shrimp.
5. Bake
Bake for:
- 8–12 minutes
until shrimp are pink, opaque, and cooked through.
Shrimp are fully cooked at:
145∘F=63∘C145^\circ F = 63^\circ C
Do not overcook or they become rubbery.
6. Optional Broil (for crispy top)
Broil for:
- 1–2 minutes
until parmesan is golden and slightly crisp.
Serving Suggestions
Low-Carb Meals
Serve with:
- zucchini noodles
- cauliflower rice
- sautéed spinach
Light Meal Plate
- side salad
- roasted vegetables
- lemon wedge drizzle
WW-Friendly Bowl
- shrimp
- quinoa (small portion)
- steamed broccoli
- light yogurt sauce
Light Garlic Yogurt Sauce (Optional)
Mix:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- garlic powder
- lemon juice
- salt & pepper
Variations
Spicy Version
Add:
- extra chili flakes
- cayenne pepper
- hot sauce drizzle
Lemon Butter Style (Still Light)
Add:
- 1 tbsp light butter
- extra lemon zest
Air Fryer Version
Cook at:
- 375°F (190°C)
for:
- 6–8 minutes
Storage
- Refrigerate: up to 2–3 days
- Reheat gently (avoid overcooking)
- Best fresh for texture
WW-Friendly Tips
- Use cooking spray instead of oil for fewer points
- Skip breadcrumbs for lower carbs
- Pair with zero-point vegetables
- Use extra garlic, lemon, and herbs for flavor without calories
Nutrition Highlights
- High protein
- Low carb
- Low calorie
- WW-friendly adaptable
- Fast weeknight dinner
