Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

This creamy lemon garlic Parmesan shrimp recipe features tender shrimp cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce made with fresh lemon juice, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for quick dinners or special occasions, this dish combines zesty citrus with savory herbs and a smooth, creamy texture. Ideal served over pasta, rice, or vegetables, it offers a delicious, easy-to-make seafood meal that’s packed with protein and bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound shrimp (31-40 count size), thawed and peeled
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 teaspoon flour
• 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice plus zest of 1 lemon
• 1 cup heavy cream or whipping cream
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the shrimp by rinsing under cool water if frozen, and pat dry with paper towels. Remove tails if preferred.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Pour in the lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 minutes.
5. Add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for approximately 5 minutes. Stir occasionally until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through, and the sauce has thickened slightly. Adjust the heat to prevent over-thickening or boiling too fast.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy shrimp dish offers a perfect balance of tangy lemon, rich garlic, and savory Parmesan flavors. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that works well for busy weeknights or special occasions.

Tips

• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
• Using freshly grated Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and texture of the sauce.
• For a thicker sauce, cook a little longer or add a bit more flour when making the roux.

Variations and Substitutions

• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less creamy.
• Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein option.
• Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What pasta pairs well with this sauce?
Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti work great with creamy shrimp sauces.

How long can leftovers be stored?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Serving

Serve this creamy lemon garlic Parmesan shrimp over pasta, rice, or with a side of steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon wedges for added freshness.

Suggestions

Add a side salad or crusty bread to complement the rich sauce. For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.