Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss, Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan is the answer to your cravings. This skillet sensation brings together juicy shrimp, robust garlic, a dreamy parmesan cream sauce, and fresh herbs, all in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re planning a fancy dinner or just rewarding yourself after a long day, this restaurant-quality meal never fails to impress. The blend of creamy, cheesy, and garlicky goodness makes every bite memorable—plus, it’s perfect for serving with pasta, rice, or a side of veggies. Trust me, this one is destined to become a weeknight favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan lies in its straightforward, everyday ingredients. Each one plays a starring role, lending either silkiness, depth of flavor, or that signature seafood sweetness and snap.

• Olive oil: Adds a subtle, fruity richness and helps create a golden crust on the shrimp.
• Shrimp (1 pound, tails on or off): Juicy, tender, and the true star of this dish — opt for fresh or thawed raw shrimp for the best texture.
• Salt (1/4 teaspoon, to taste): Brings out all the natural flavors in the shrimp and sauce.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon, to taste): Balances creaminess with a mild kick of heat.
• Unsalted butter (2 tablespoons): Makes the sauce extra luscious and complements the olive oil for sautéing.
• Garlic (6 cloves, minced): No skimping here! Garlic infuses the sauce and shrimp with irresistible aroma and taste.
• Dry white wine or chicken broth (1/2 cup): Deglazes the pan for a rich, savory backbone and subtle acidity—choose according to preference.
• Reduced fat cream (1 1/2 cups): Creates that luxuriously creamy texture without feeling too heavy.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, freshly grated): Fresh is best! Parmesan melts into the sauce, giving nutty complexity and body.
• Parsley (2 tablespoons, fresh, chopped): The ideal finishing touch, offering a burst of color and freshness.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them in a single layer. Let them cook for just 1 to 2 minutes on each side; you want them succulent and perfectly pink — not overdone. Once cooked through, transfer the shrimp to a bowl and set aside. This quick sear locks in their natural sweetness and keeps the shrimp juicy once they’re bathed in sauce later.

Step 2: Build the Foundation With Garlic and Wine

In the same skillet, melt the butter (don’t wipe out the pan! All those little brown bits add flavor). Toss in the minced garlic and let it sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant and golden—not burned. Next, pour in the dry white wine or chicken broth. This step is pure magic: as the liquid reduces by half, it lifts all those caramelized shrimp bits from the pan, creating a savory base that’s packed with flavor.

Step 3: Simmer the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to low-medium, then slowly pour in the reduced fat cream, stirring gently as the sauce comes to a gentle simmer. Season with a pinch more salt and pepper, tasting as you go. The cream thickens just enough to feel indulgent without weighing everything down. Patience pays off here, as this is where your Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan gets its signature silkiness.

Step 4: Add Parmesan and Thicken

Now comes the cheesy payoff! Sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan cheese into the simmering cream sauce, stirring continuously. As it melts, you’ll see the sauce transform into a gorgeous, rich consistency with flecks of parmesan throughout. Let it gently bubble for about a minute, just until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Finish With Shrimp and Parsley

Return the cooked shrimp (along with any juices they released) back into the pan. Gently toss to coat all the shrimp in that heavenly sauce. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and brightness. Last but not least, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan is ready to serve hot and fresh!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan

Garnishes

A final flurry of fresh parsley not only adds color but freshness that cuts through the creamy richness. If you want to make it extra fancy, a sprinkle of additional parmesan cheese right before serving never hurts. A few twists of cracked black pepper and even a light squeeze of lemon can brighten up the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This is a flexible main that pairs easily with so many sides! Toss the Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan over hot pasta, spoon it alongside steamed rice, or serve it with a crisp green salad to keep things light. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini strike a nice balance against the richness of the sauce. And of course, don’t forget a hunk of warm, crusty bread to mop up every last drop!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, try serving the shrimp atop creamy polenta or set them on toasted baguette slices for a stellar appetizer. For a low-carb twist, spoon the shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Another fun idea: divide the Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan into individual ramekins for an elegant, restaurant-style presentation everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days — longer storage can alter the shrimp’s texture and make the sauce separate, so it’s best enjoyed soon after making.

Freezing

While you technically could freeze this dish, the cream sauce may not retain its silky texture after thawing. Dairy sauces tend to separate when frozen and reheated. If you do freeze, let the dish cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month, but be prepared for potential texture changes.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to help refresh the sauce and keep it from getting too thick. Stir occasionally and heat just until the shrimp is warmed through — avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery if reheated aggressively.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry with paper towels before cooking. Extra moisture can prevent your shrimp from searing properly and dilute the sauce.

What if I don’t have white wine?

No problem — chicken broth is a great substitute. While wine adds subtle acidity and depth, chicken broth keeps the sauce savory and delicious. Use whichever you have on hand.

Is there a substitute for cream?

If you’re looking to lighten things up further, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk, though the sauce will be a bit thinner. Avoid regular milk, as it will make the sauce less rich and may curdle during simmering.

What’s the best pasta to serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan?

Linguine or fettuccine are classic choices since they hold that creamy sauce so well! You can use any pasta you like, including gluten-free options. Even a quick sauté of spiralized zucchini makes a lovely lower-carb base.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan ahead for a dinner party?

While it’s best enjoyed freshly cooked, you can prep the ingredients (like mincing garlic and grating parmesan) ahead of time, and even sear the shrimp a couple of hours in advance. When ready to serve, quickly whip up the sauce and add everything together — it’ll taste like you fussed for hours!

Final Thoughts

I can’t wait for you to experience just how simple and satisfying Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan really is. Whether cooking for guests or treating yourself to a weeknight upgrade, this recipe brings restaurant flair home to your table every time. Give it a try and watch it become a repeat request in your kitchen!

Print