If you’re craving a dish that combines the brightness of citrus with the richness of cheese and a touch of indulgent creaminess, then this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. It’s a vibrant, luscious meal that brings succulent shrimp swimming in a velvety sauce where tangy lemon and nutty Parmesan shine together beautifully. Perfect for those nights you want something impressive but quick and easy, this recipe balances freshness and comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to making this dish a standout. Each item is simple and approachable but plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, creating a creamy, tangy, and savory profile that the shrimp soak up perfectly.
- Large shrimp (1 lb peeled and deveined): The star protein, tender and quick-cooking to keep the dish light yet satisfying.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Adds a subtle fruitiness and helps sear the shrimp to perfection.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Brings richness and a silky finish to the sauce’s base.
- Garlic cloves (4 minced): Infuses a wonderful aromatic punch that complements both the shrimp and the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1/2 cup): The secret ingredient for that luxuriously smooth, creamy texture.
- Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Adds depth and balances the creaminess with a savory background.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup grated): Offers a nutty, salty kick that ties everything together beautifully.
- Fresh lemon juice (2 tablespoons): Brings brightness and a citrus zing essential for that classic lemon shrimp flavor.
- Lemon zest (from 1 lemon): Intensifies lemon flavor with aromatic oils for a fresh punch.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Enhances all the flavors, making the dish sing.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Adds a pop of color and a light herbal note to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp to Golden Perfection
Start by heating olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This combination provides that perfect fat blend to cook the shrimp without drying them out. Add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick sauté locks in all the juicy goodness. Once cooked, set the shrimp aside to rest so they stay tender and don’t overcook in the sauce later.
Step 2: Build the Flavor Base with Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden. This step is crucial; garlic releases its miraculous flavor early, forming the aromatic foundation for the entire sauce without burning or becoming bitter.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth to Reduce and Concentrate
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes to reduce a little, concentrating the savory notes. This reduction deepens the sauce, making every bite more flavorful when combined with the cream and cheese in the next step.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Lemon Parmesan Sauce
Now stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. The mixture will begin to thicken beautifully within 2 to 3 minutes as the cheese melts, melding tangy, salty, and creamy flavors into a luscious sauce. Keep stirring gently so the cheese fully dissolves and the sauce remains smooth.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp with Sauce and Season
Return those perfectly cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp generously with the sauce, allowing them to heat through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes. Finish by seasoning the dish with salt and pepper to taste, bringing out the full harmony of flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top is not just for a pop of green but adds a fresh herbal brightness that cuts through the richness. A little more lemon zest over the finished dish can also elevate the flavor with a zingy lift and make everything look irresistible.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with simple options like al dente pasta, fluffy rice, or even creamy mashed potatoes. The creamy lemon sauce becomes a perfect partner to soak up with any of these sides, turning a quick meal into a delightful feast. For a lighter pairing, steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad add balance and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this recipe over a bed of buttery garlic toasted bread for a rustic touch. For a more elegant presentation, plate the shrimp atop a swirl of risotto and drizzle extra sauce artistically around the edge. Adding a lemon wedge on the side invites your guests to add extra citrus brightness if they wish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, but shrimp are best enjoyed fresh to maintain their tender texture.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze the creamy sauce separately without shrimp for up to a month. Freeze in a sealed container, thaw gently in the fridge, then reheat slowly. Add freshly cooked shrimp after reheating to preserve their texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from breaking. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help bring back that velvety consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents excess water from diluting the sauce.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe focuses on bright, creamy, and savory flavors without heat. However, if you love spice, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic can add a lovely kick.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version, but the sauce may be less thick and rich. Adjust the thickness by simmering a bit longer if needed.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth works well as a substitute and keeps the dish just as flavorful. For a gluten-free option, ensure your chosen broth is labeled gluten-free.
How long does it take to cook this recipe?
From start to finish, this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe takes about 20 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for a delicious weeknight dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe is pure magic in a skillet – it’s quick, comforting, and full of bright flavors that brighten any evening. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish brings impressive restaurant-quality vibes to your table without fuss. Give it a try and watch how easily it turns into a new favorite go-to dinner!
Print
Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy lemon Parmesan shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy large shrimp are sautéed and then tossed in a luscious sauce made with garlic, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and zest. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a deliciously tangy and rich meal that pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Sauce
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat fats: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and combined with the oil.
- Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.
- Add cream sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp thoroughly.
- Season and garnish: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving to add a fresh touch and color.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Use fresh shrimp for best texture, but frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- Adjust the lemon juice quantity to your taste preference for tanginess.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but the sauce will be less thick and rich.
