Some recipes just steal the show at the dinner table, and this Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Appetizer is one of them. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp coated in a creamy, garlicky mayo mixture, topped with a blanket of melty cheese, and broiled until golden and bubbly. It’s rich, indulgent, and packed with bold flavors, making it the ultimate crowd-pleaser.
This dish is a staple at my family gatherings, especially during the holidays. There’s something about the combination of garlic, cheese, and seafood that feels luxurious yet comforting. And the best part? It comes together in under 30 minutes!
Whether you’re serving it as a starter for a big feast or adding it to a cozy weeknight dinner, this recipe is the kind of effortless magic that makes home cooking so rewarding.
Cheesy shrimp appetizers have been trending lately, especially in low-carb and keto communities, thanks to their protein-packed, satisfying nature.
Shrimp is naturally low in calories yet high in protein, making it a smart choice for those looking for a delicious way to stay full without overindulging in carbs.
For a well-rounded meal, serve it alongside Chicken Pot Pie Noodle Skillet for some hearty comfort or pair it with Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a crispy, protein-rich contrast.
This is the kind of dish that disappears fast.
Why You Will Be Hooked?
- Ridiculously easy – just mix, top, and broil. Perfect for last-minute gatherings!
- Packed with flavor – garlicky, cheesy, and irresistibly savory.
- Naturally low-carb & keto-friendly – a protein-packed, satisfying appetizer.
- Customizable – try different cheeses or add a kick of spice with red pepper flakes.
Cheesy Garlic Shrimp Appetizer Recipe
Equipment
- Oven
- Rimmed baking sheet
- Silpat liner or parchment paper
- Paper towels
- Sharp paring knife
- Butter knife or basting brush
Ingredients
- 1 lb 20-25 count large shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- Garlic powder to taste
- Black pepper freshly ground, to taste
- 4 oz Mexican blend shredded cheese
- Fresh parsley finely chopped (optional garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and line a rimmed baking sheet.
- Pat shrimp dry and butterfly them by slicing halfway through the inside curve.
- Lay shrimp cut-side up on the baking sheet.
- Spread a small amount of mayonnaise on each shrimp.
- Season with garlic powder and black pepper.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese evenly over the shrimp.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes, checking for doneness at 10 minutes.
- Transfer to a serving platter, garnish with parsley, and enjoy!
Nutrition Info:
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 170kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 11g |
| Sugar | 0.2g |
| Sodium | 634mg |
Try More Delicious Shrimp Recipes!
- Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp
- Crab ‘n Shrimp Dip
- Honey Walnut Shrimp
- Salsa Verde Shrimp and Rice
- Shrimp Rigatoni
Joe Miller is the passionate founder of Food Landscape Insight, where he shares his love for cooking and culinary experiences. Growing up in a family-run diner, Joe was immersed in the vibrant world of food from an early age. The kitchen became his canvas, and food, his way of storytelling.
Through years of experimentation and learning, Joe honed his skills and started his blog to inspire others to embrace the joy of cooking. Each recipe he shares is a blend of tradition, creativity, and the heartfelt memories that food brings to life, all with the aim of fostering a deeper connection to food.
