Creamy Garlic Shrimp Parmesan

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan always wins the dinner table in my house because it combines succulent shrimp and a rich cheesy garlic sauce that feels like something special yet comes together in just one pan. There is something about garlicky cream clinging to perfectly cooked shrimp that makes even a weeknight feel elevated.

The first time I made this my husband actually paused mid bite just to say how restaurant worthy it tasted and since then it has been my go to when I want to impress without stress.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: Peeled and deveined ensures quick cooking and sweet tender texture
• Garlic: Fresh cloves bring robust savory depth try to use firm plump cloves with no green shoots for best flavor
• Heavy cream: Delivers that silky rich base look for high quality cream for the creamiest finish
• Parmesan cheese: Gives salty nutty complexity and richness always grate cheese fresh if you can for smoother melting
• Olive oil: Helps the shrimp sear evenly use extra virgin for full flavor
• Butter: Adds silkiness and helps brown the shrimp slightly
• Italian seasoning: Provides aromatic herbal notes a good blend should have oregano basil and thyme
• Salt and black pepper: Needed for balancing all the flavors use fresh cracked pepper if possible
• Fresh parsley for garnish: Brings freshness and color add just before serving for brightness
• Lemon wedges for serving: Add zing and cut through the richness always use fresh juicy lemons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil and butter in a wide skillet on medium heat until the butter is just bubbling. Place shrimp in an even layer and season with salt black pepper and Italian seasoning. Let the shrimp cook undisturbed for about two minutes until one side is pink and starting to curl then flip and cook another minute or so until opaque and just cooked through. Remove the shrimp to a plate while you make the sauce.

Sauté the Garlic:

With the skillet still on medium gently scatter in the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about thirty seconds until the garlic is just fragrant but not brown. This step releases the best flavor into the oil and butter base.

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Lower the heat to medium low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to pick up all the browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for better flavor. Once the cream is just beginning to simmer gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese stirring or whisking constantly until the sauce becomes thick smooth and the cheese fully melts into the cream.

Combine Shrimp with Sauce:

Return the cooked shrimp along with any juices back to the skillet. Use a spatula to gently coat every shrimp in the creamy cheesy sauce. Let everything cook together for a minute or two so the shrimp soak up the flavor being careful not to overcook.

Serve:

Remove the skillet from the heat. Sprinkle on the fresh chopped parsley for a hit of green and brightness. Just before digging in squeeze a lemon wedge over the top to bring all the flavors into balance. This dish is ready to eat right away and pairs beautifully with spaghetti fluffy rice or warm bread.

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I am always tempted to add a little extra Parmesan because that savory taste reminds me of the Italian Sunday meals I grew up with. My youngest once declared she wanted this for her birthday dinner which is now our new family tradition for celebrations.

Storage Tips

This dish is best enjoyed fresh but leftovers will keep well in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Warm gently over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. I have found that adding a splash of cream when reheating helps maintain that creamy texture. Avoid microwaving for too long as shrimp can become rubbery.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are out of heavy cream a combination of whole milk and a spoonful of cream cheese works in a pinch for similar richness. You could swap Parmesan for another hard aged cheese like Grana Padano. If fresh parsley is not on hand sprinkle a bit of dried parsley or even fresh basil for a different twist. For a dairy free version try coconut cream and nutritional yeast though the taste will subtly change.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy shrimp is wonderful spooned over angel hair pasta or even cauliflower rice for a lighter meal. Sometimes I toast up thick slices of sourdough and pile everything on top for an effortless dinner that still feels indulgent. A side of garlic sautéed spinach or a crisp romaine salad pairs well for freshness and color on the plate.

Cultural Context

Creamy garlic shrimp brings together classic Italian creamy pasta techniques with fresh seafood a staple across Mediterranean kitchens. The use of Parmesan and cream feels luxurious but also practical for stretching just a pound of shrimp into a meal that feeds the whole family. Whether you grew up near the coast or far from it the combination of garlic shrimp and cheese brings universal comfort.

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This dish will undoubtedly become a favorite at your table as well — a little indulgence that's truly worth it!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, simply thaw and pat dry before cooking. This ensures a proper sear and prevents excess water in the sauce.

→ Which pasta pairs best with this dish?

Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are excellent choices, as their texture holds the creamy sauce well.

→ Can I substitute cream with milk?

For a lighter option, use whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and thick than with heavy cream.

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Sauté the garlic briefly over medium heat and avoid high temperatures, stirring constantly for best results.

→ Is fresh Parmesan necessary?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and enhances flavor, while pre-grated varieties might not blend as well.