Description
A quick and easy creamy garlic shrimp recipe that’s perfect for weeknight dinners. Rich, flavorful, and flexible, it’s ready in just 25-30 minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients for the shrimp
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (Tails on or off is your call)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (Helps the butter not brown too fast)
- 1 tablespoon butter (For flavor and that silky base)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (Fresh cloves are essential)
- 1 cup heavy cream (For the creamy Parmesan sauce)
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, finely grated (Melts best when finely grated)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (Or a pinch of dried oregano)
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (Optional for gentle heat)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (A quick squeeze at the end wakes it up)
- 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped (Optional for freshness and color)
- to taste salt and black pepper (Season at the end)
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Cook the shrimp for about 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and curled. Remove to a plate.
- Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter to the skillet.
- Add minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds, being careful not to let it brown.
Cooking
- Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes, if using. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Add the grated Parmesan a little at a time, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Return the shrimp and any juices back to the pan. Toss for 1 minute just to warm through.
- Finish by squeezing in lemon juice and adjusting salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with parsley if desired.
Notes
If the sauce looks too thick, add a tablespoon or two of broth or pasta water. If it appears too thin, simmer gently to tighten it up. Serve with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: dinner, Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian