Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and creamy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. This recipe brings together the flavors of fresh garlic and savory parmesan cheese to create a meal that feels luxurious yet can be made in under 30 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a family favorite that will impress guests without requiring extensive cooking skills. Whether you are an experienced chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into why you will love this creamy garlic shrimp dish!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan
- 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
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, deveined shrimp for the best texture; fresh or frozen will work well.
- Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for optimal flavor; minced garlic gives a robust aroma.
- Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce; substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for better melting and flavor compared to pre-grated options.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Pasta (optional): Spaghetti or fettuccine complement the sauce beautifully; cook according to package instructions.
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: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by thawing the shrimp if frozen. Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta (if using)
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta of choice and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about one minute. Be careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, about two to three minutes per side.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth; season with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 6: Combine Everything
If using pasta, add it directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
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
- No Overcooking: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they cook quickly, so keep an eye on them
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!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance. Cook the shrimp for about 3 minutes until opaque, then cool and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Prepare the garlic sauce separately and refrigerate as well.
- Storing: Leftovers should be placed in an airtight container. They can be stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for up to two months. Ensure that you label the containers with dates for easy tracking.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat on low heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently until warmed through, which should take about 5 minutes. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Suggestions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan
Use Fresh Shrimp
Using fresh shrimp makes a significant difference in flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but they often contain added preservatives that diminish taste. Look for shrimp that have a mild scent and firm texture. If you must use frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking. This allows for even cooking and enhances the creaminess of your dish. Always check for the right size shrimp as well; medium to large shrimp work best in this recipe, ensuring each bite is satisfying.
Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp
Overcooked shrimp can become tough and rubbery, ruining your creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan. To prevent this, cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Remove them from heat once they’re cooked through to maintain tenderness. Remember that residual heat will continue to cook the shrimp slightly even after removing them from the pan, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on them while cooking.
Use Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients directly impacts the final dish. Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced or powdered garlic for a more robust flavor. Opt for high-quality Parmesan cheese, preferably freshly grated, as it melts better and enhances the creaminess of your sauce. Additionally, choose a good cooking oil or butter as the base for your sauce; this creates a rich foundation that complements the other flavors beautifully.
Balance Flavors
Balancing flavors is key to achieving delicious creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan. While garlic brings robust flavor, adding too much can overpower the dish. Start with a moderate amount of minced garlic and adjust according to taste. Incorporating white wine or lemon juice can add acidity that balances richness from cream and cheese. Don’t forget about seasoning; taste periodically and adjust salt or pepper as needed to create a harmonious blend of flavors.
FAQs
What type of shrimp is best for creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan?
When preparing creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan, medium to large shrimp are ideal due to their size and texture. These varieties hold up well during cooking and provide satisfying bites in every forkful. It’s also advisable to use wild-caught shrimp if possible; they typically offer better flavor compared to farmed options. Ensure you remove the shells and devein them before cooking for optimal results.
Can I make creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan without heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream in your creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan recipe if you’re looking for lighter alternatives or if you want a dairy-free option. Coconut milk or cashew cream can be excellent substitutes that still provide creaminess without sacrificing flavor. Both alternatives will alter the taste slightly but still yield a delicious dish.
How do I store leftovers of creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan?
If you have leftover creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp further. You may need to add a splash of broth or water during reheating to restore some creaminess lost during storage.
Can I freeze creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan?
Freezing creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan is not recommended due to potential texture changes upon thawing and reheating. The cream sauce may separate or become grainy when frozen and then reheated. If you want to prepare ahead of time, consider freezing just the cooked shrimp separately without any sauce, then adding freshly made sauce when you’re ready to serve.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic shrimp with Parmesan is an exquisite dish that combines succulent seafood with rich flavors. To achieve perfect results, remember to use fresh ingredients and avoid overcooking your shrimp; this ensures tender bites full of flavor. Quality matters—opt for fresh garlic and high-grade cheese to elevate your meal significantly. Balancing flavors allows all elements in this dish to shine harmoniously together while creating an unforgettable dining experience at home. By following these essential tips, you’ll impress family and friends alike with every serving of creamy garlic goodness!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan, a dish that transforms simple ingredients into an exquisite meal. This recipe features succulent shrimp sautéed in a velvety garlic cream sauce, perfectly balanced by the savory notes of freshly grated parmesan cheese. In just 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality dish ideal for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at your next gathering. Serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop of sauce. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting out, this dish is easily achievable and sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- Large deveined shrimp
- Fresh garlic
- Heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Unsalted butter
- Optional: Pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
Instructions
- Thaw shrimp if frozen, rinse under cold water, and pat dry.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat; sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Pour in heavy cream, simmer gently, then stir in parmesan until melted and smooth.
- If using pasta, add it to the skillet and toss to combine before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
