1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). I always like to let the oven come to temperature before starting—Mama Lou insisted that a hot oven makes all the difference for a golden crust.
2. In a medium bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), lemon juice, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy.
3. Gently fold in the grated Parmesan cheese, reserving a small handful for topping.
4. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in a buttered 9×13-inch baking dish. I find that using a glass dish helps me see when the cheese is perfectly melted and bubbly.
5. Pour the garlic Parmesan mixture evenly over the shrimp, making sure each piece gets coated with that luscious sauce.
6. Sprinkle the reserved Parmesan cheese on top for that irresistible crust.
7. Bake uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the topping is golden and bubbling. Keep an eye on it—the shrimp cook quickly, and you want to avoid rubbery bites.
8. Once out of the oven, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
9. Let the bake rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This pause helps the sauce thicken slightly, making every bite silky and satisfying.

When I make this for my family, I always think back to how Mama Lou used to say, “Cooking is like telling a story—every ingredient has a role, every step a chapter.” This bake is a beautiful narrative of simple ingredients coming together to create something unforgettable.