If you are looking for an indulgent yet simple dish that will impress anyone lucky enough to get a taste, this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce made with garlic, rich Parmesan cheese, and a touch of cream create a flavor combo that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe delivers layers of flavor and creamy texture that keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its straightforward and accessible ingredients, each one playing a crucial role to build the creamy, garlicky goodness and vibrant color that makes the dish pop.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Your protein star, which cooks quickly and carries the flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a lovely richness and helps to cook the shrimp evenly without sticking.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to elevate every bite and balance flavors.
- 4 tablespoons butter: Brings a silky mouthfeel and melds perfectly with the garlic and cheese.
- 5 cloves garlic, minced: The aromatic powerhouse that infuses the sauce with bold flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The creamy base that gives the sauce its indulgent texture.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharpness and depth, making the sauce irresistibly cheesy.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that adds a fragrant, savory note.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a slight hint of heat to balance the richness.
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque—a clear sign they’re perfectly done. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside to make room for the sauce.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1 to 2 minutes, just enough to bring out the garlic’s fragrance without letting it brown or burn. Next, pour in the heavy cream and stir as the mixture begins to simmer, creating the luxurious base for your sauce.
Step 3: Add the Cheese and Seasonings
Once your cream is warm and slightly bubbling, sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with the Italian seasoning. If you’re feeling adventurous, add those red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 4 minutes—that creamy texture is the heart of this recipe.
Step 4: Combine the Shrimp and Sauce
Return the shrimp back to the skillet and toss them gently in that luscious sauce, making sure every piece is coated. Let everything simmer together for another 2 to 3 minutes so the shrimp soak up the flavors and the sauce thickens to perfection.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is all you need to elevate this dish visually and add a burst of herbal freshness that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. The bright green flecks make this shrimp irresistible at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides — creamy mashed potatoes, fluffy rice, or even a bed of buttery pasta to soak up every last drop of the sauce. For a lighter option, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad provide a refreshing balance to the creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, serve this shrimp over a nest of zucchini noodles or creamy polenta for an elegant twist. You can also spoon it into toasted baguette halves for an irresistible appetizer or place it on top of garlic bread for an over-the-top indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers, store the shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, although it’s best enjoyed as soon as possible to preserve the creamy texture and shrimp’s tender bite.
Freezing
Freezing this creamy garlic parmesan shrimp recipe is not recommended, as the heavy cream-based sauce can separate and change texture upon thawing, which may impact that silky finish we all love.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove to prevent the sauce from breaking. Stir frequently and add a splash of cream or milk if needed to bring back that smooth, creamy consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure a nice sear.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it might not be as rich or thick. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free option if you want to experiment with flavors.
How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle heat that complements the richness — it’s not overpowering. You can adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe ahead of time?
You can peel and devein shrimp ahead of time and even grate your Parmesan cheese, but the sauce and cooking are best done fresh to enjoy the fullest flavor and perfect texture.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Pecorino Romano is a fantastic alternative with a sharper, saltier flavor, or Grana Padano if you want something milder but still similar in texture.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so comforting and celebratory about this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe. It’s quick to make, hard to mess up, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re treating yourself after a long day or impressing friends at dinner, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Trust me, once you try it, it will quickly become your go-to for a creamy, garlicky seafood feast that never disappoints.
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Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, garlicky, and cheesy sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and delicious dinner that combines bold flavors and creamy textures, garnished with fresh parsley for a bright finish.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and stir, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes if using, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them thoroughly in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer together for another 2-3 minutes to heat the shrimp through and allow the sauce to thicken further.
- Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor, but frozen shrimp, fully thawed, can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- For a lower fat version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
