Sheet Pan Shrimp with Cheddar & Parmesan

By Lily | Last modified on Jan 16, 2026

Featured in: Seafood

Imagine coming home to an effortless dinner that looks and tastes like you spent hours preparing. This Sheet Pan Shrimp with Cheddar & Parmesan is that kind of meal—juicy, flavorful shrimp baked under a glorious blanket of melted cheddar and Parmesan cheeses. It’s fast, cheesy, and full of savory goodness that satisfies every seafood craving.

Perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a fuss-free seafood dish, this tray bake combines robust spices and rich cheese with tender shrimp for a mouthwatering, golden finish. Minimal cleanup and maximum flavor make it a kitchen favorite you’ll turn to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich umami flavors from sharp cheddar and nutty Parmesan cheeses.
Minimal cleanup thanks to the convenient sheet pan method.
Juicy, perfectly roasted shrimp with a subtle smoky-spiced kick.

Ingredients

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed for tender, juicy bites without shells or veins, about 1 pound for four servings.
Olive oil: Helps coat the shrimp evenly for roasting and contributes to a rich flavor and moist texture.
Garlic powder: Adds a fragrant, savory depth with ease, complementing seafood flavors.
Paprika: Provides a mild smoky aroma and vibrant color to the shrimp.
Salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the cheese’s richness.
Black pepper: Offers subtle heat and sharpness to counterbalance the creamy cheeses.
Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and melty, it creates a gooey, flavorful layer atop the shrimp.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish and a slightly crisp topping when baked.
Chopped parsley or green onions (optional): Fresh herbs to brighten the dish and add visual appeal.
Lemon wedges (optional): Provides a zesty, acidic complement when squeezed over the finished shrimp.

Instructions

Preheat and Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 220 ℃ (425 ℉). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking. This ensures an easy cleanup and helps the shrimp roast evenly with a crisp cheese topping.
Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. This step infuses the shrimp with gentle smoky and garlicky flavors, and the oil helps the seasonings stick while promoting even cooking.
Arrange Shrimp on the Sheet Pan: Spread the seasoned shrimp in a single layer across the prepared sheet pan. Avoid overcrowding to allow proper roasting and browning, which ensures juicy shrimp and a delicious texture.
Add the Cheeses: Generously sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the shrimp, then follow with grated Parmesan cheese. These cheeses melt together for a rich, flavorful crust that pairs perfectly with the tender shrimp.
Bake Until Melty and Golden: Place the sheet pan uncovered in the preheated oven and bake for 8–10 minutes. Bake until the shrimp are pink and opaque, and the cheese is melted with slightly golden-browned spots for a delightful mix of creaminess and crispiness.
Garnish and Serve: Remove the shrimp from the oven and sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of fresh color and flavor. Serve immediately with lemon wedges to add a bright, citrusy finish that balances the richness.

You Must Know

You can customize the cheese blend by using mozzarella and Romano for a milder, creamier topping.
For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when tossing the shrimp with seasonings.
For a crispier cheese finish, switch your oven to broil for 1–2 minutes after baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.

Storage Tips

Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to preserve the cheese texture and shrimp juiciness.

Serving Suggestions

Serve hot with steamed rice or toss the shrimp and cheese over cooked pasta. A crisp, tangy salad or roasted vegetables make excellent side dishes to complement the rich flavors.

Professional Tips

Use large, evenly sized shrimp to ensure consistent cooking; smaller shrimp may overcook quickly.
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to help the cheese adhere better and avoid excess moisture.
Experiment with fresh garlic instead of powder for a more robust flavor if time allows.
Let the shrimp rest for a few minutes after baking to allow the cheese to set slightly for easier serving.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?: Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess water diluting the flavor.
What if I don’t have cheddar or Parmesan cheese?: You can substitute mozzarella or Romano cheese for a different but delicious flavor profile and similar melt.
Can I make this recipe spicy?: Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper or red chili flakes when seasoning to give the shrimp a spicy kick.
How can I make the cheese topping crispier?: After baking, broil the shrimp for 1–2 minutes to brown and crisp the cheese further—watch closely to prevent burning.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?: Yes. Prepare and store in the fridge for up to two days, reheating gently before serving to maintain flavor and texture.
Can I add vegetables to the sheet pan?: Yes! Thin-sliced bell peppers or asparagus can roast quickly alongside shrimp, adding nutrients and color.
What sides pair best with this dish?: Steamed rice, garlic pasta, or a fresh green salad complement the richness and balance the meal nicely.