Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal that impresses at any dinner table, look no further than creamy garlic shrimp with parmesan. This delightful dish combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor. The best part? It comes together in just under 30 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this recipe is simple enough for novice cooks while still delivering restaurant-quality taste. Whether served over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce, every bite promises to be satisfying. The combination of garlic and parmesan creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into why this dish should be on your menu tonight!

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

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Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Shrimp: Use peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture; fresh or frozen works well.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves as they provide a potent flavor essential to this dish.
• Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich creaminess; you can substitute half-and-half if desired.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds a nutty flavor compared to pre-grated options.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for cooking the shrimp; it enhances flavor without overpowering the dish.

For the Sauce:

• Dried Italian Herbs: A blend of basil, oregano, and thyme brings depth to the sauce.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic

In the same skillet, reduce heat slightly and add minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add dried Italian herbs and bring to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly over about three minutes.

Step 4: Add Cheese

Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese gradually until fully melted and combined into a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce. Heat through for another two minutes.

Step 6: Serve Warm

Transfer to plates or bowls immediately. You can serve it over pasta or rice or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread.

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Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
• Advanced Technique: For enhanced flavor, try marinating the shrimp in lemon juice before cooking

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

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Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance. Cook the shrimp until just pink, about 3-4 minutes, then cool and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
• Storing: Leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For longer storage, consider freezing it; it will keep well for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, place the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over medium heat. Stir gently for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream can help restore its creamy texture.

Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

One of the most common mistakes when making creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly, typically in just a few minutes. If you cook it for too long, it becomes rubbery and loses its delicate flavor. To avoid this, cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the pan as soon as they reach this stage. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly even after being removed from heat due to residual heat in the pan.

Don’t Skimp on Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor in your creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan. Fresh garlic provides a robust aroma that dried garlic simply cannot match. Additionally, using high-quality Parmesan cheese enhances the creaminess and taste of the dish. Avoid pre-grated cheese if possible, as it often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability and flavor. Make sure your shrimp are fresh or properly thawed, as frozen shrimp can release excess water during cooking.

Balance Flavor with Seasoning

Another mistake to avoid is not seasoning your dish adequately. While garlic and Parmesan are strong flavors, adding salt and pepper can help enhance the overall taste profile of creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan. Taste your sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Moreover, consider adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Striking the right balance in flavor will elevate your dish to new heights.

Choose the Right Type of Cream

When preparing creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan, selecting the right type of cream matters greatly. Heavy cream adds richness, while half-and-half can make it lighter but may result in a less decadent sauce. Avoid using low-fat creams or substitutes since they won’t thicken properly and could lead to a watery consistency. Opt for heavy whipping cream for that luscious texture that complements both garlic and cheese beautifully.

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FAQs

What ingredients do I need for creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan?

To prepare creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan, you will need several key ingredients: fresh shrimp (preferably large or jumbo), garlic (freshly minced for best flavor), butter (for sautéing), heavy cream (to create that rich sauce), and freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for creaminess). You should also have salt, black pepper, and optional seasonings like red pepper flakes or parsley for garnish. A splash of lemon juice can brighten up the dish too. Ensure all ingredients are fresh for maximum flavor impact.

How long does it take to cook creamy garlic shrimp?

Cooking creamy garlic shrimp typically takes around 15-20 minutes from start to finish. The preparation involves cleaning and deveining your shrimp, which can take an additional 5-10 minutes depending on how many you are preparing. In terms of actual cooking time on the stovetop, you should sauté the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. The sauce creation will take another 5-7 minutes to combine flavors effectively before returning the shrimp to coat them in that delicious garlicky cream.

Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp when making creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan; however, it’s essential to thaw them properly first. Thawing overnight in the refrigerator is best; if you’re short on time, placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 30 minutes will work as well. Be cautious with frozen shrimp as they may release excess moisture during cooking, which can thin out your sauce. Always pat them dry before cooking to prevent this issue.

How do I store leftover creamy garlic shrimp?

Storing leftover creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan is straightforward but requires careful handling due to its dairy content. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it should remain safe for up to 2-3 days. Reheating should be done gently on low heat to avoid curdling the cream sauce or overcooking the shrimp again. If possible, reheat only what you plan to eat at one time for optimal texture and taste.

Conclusion for Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan is a delightful dish perfect for any occasion. By avoiding common pitfalls such as overcooking seafood or skimping on fresh ingredients, you can achieve fantastic results every time you prepare this recipe. Remember to balance flavors through proper seasoning and select high-quality components like heavy cream and real Parmesan cheese for an exceptional experience. With these tips and techniques at hand, you’ll be well-equipped to create a deliciously creamy meal that impresses everyone at your table! Enjoy your culinary journey!