If you’re in the mood for a luxurious seafood dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, look no further than this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream. This delightful recipe blends succulent shrimp with a velvety, rich sauce that is brimming with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, this dish promises to impress. The combination of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning creates an irresistible aroma that will have everyone gathering around the table in no time.
This creamy garlic shrimp dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even spiralized vegetables for a lighter option. The creamy sauce clings beautifully to your choice of base, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or intimate dinners, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are countless reasons to fall in love with this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream recipe. Firstly, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. In just a matter of minutes, you can transform simple shrimp into a gourmet dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.
Moreover, the ingredients are readily available at most grocery stores, so you won’t have to hunt for anything exotic. The key components shrimp, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan are staples that you might already have in your kitchen. This means less time shopping and more time enjoying a spectacular meal.
Another aspect to love about this recipe is its rich and creamy texture. The heavy cream combined with melted Parmesan cheese creates a sauce that’s indulgent yet balanced with the fresh, bright flavors of garlic and herbs. This combination not only elevates the shrimp but also turns your pasta or rice into a deliciously creamy experience.
Finally, this dish is versatile. Not only does it pair well with different sides, but you can also customize it to suit your taste. Want a little kick? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a lighter version? Substitute the heavy cream with a lighter dairy option or use a non-dairy cream. The possibilities are endless, making this recipe an excellent choice for anyone looking to add a bit of flair to their regular dinner rotation.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream recipe is not just another seafood dish; it’s a culinary experience that you won’t want to miss. Here are a few compelling reasons to try it out:
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of creamy, garlicky sauce and tender shrimp creates a flavor explosion that you simply can’t resist. Each bite is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together harmoniously.
- Quick and Convenient: With a total cooking time of about 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for those who lead busy lives but still want to enjoy home-cooked meals without sacrificing quality or taste.
- Nutritional Benefits: Shrimp is a lean protein that’s low in calories but high in essential nutrients like Vitamin B12, iodine, and selenium. Coupled with the healthy fats from olive oil and the richness of heavy cream, this dish offers a balanced meal that’s satisfying and nourishing.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the dish, accented by fresh parsley, make it visually appealing. It’s a meal that’s sure to impress dinner guests or family members, making it a great option for entertaining.
- Customizable: This recipe serves as a fantastic base for experimentation. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or even swap out the shrimp for chicken or scallops, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Ingredients and Utensils Needed
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for fresh or frozen shrimp; both work well. If using frozen, be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A high-quality extra virgin olive oil will enhance the flavor of the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is essential for depth of flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This gives the sauce its creamy consistency. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated. Look for a block of Parmesan for the best quality.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme will work perfectly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Cooked pasta or rice (for serving): You can choose any pasta shape you prefer or serve it over fluffy rice.
Recommended Utensils
- Large skillet: A heavy-bottomed skillet is ideal for cooking the shrimp and sauce evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring and mixing the sauce.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic and parsley.
- Serving plates: For a beautiful presentation of your dish.
Detailed Recipe Steps
Now that you have all your ingredients and tools ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of creating this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream.
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once heated, add the shrimp and season them with salt and pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. This indicates that they are cooked perfectly. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic to the remaining oil. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter quickly.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
After the garlic is sautéed, reduce the heat to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Allow it to come to a gentle simmer, which will help the flavors meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning to the cream. Use a whisk to blend it in smoothly. Continue stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce has a creamy consistency. This is where the magic happens, so take your time to ensure that everything is well incorporated.
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes. This will help the shrimp absorb some sauce flavor and heat through.
Step 6: Serve
Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and freshness. Serve your creamy garlic shrimp over the cooked pasta or rice of your choice, and enjoy!
Tips and Variations
While this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream recipe is delicious as is, there are various ways to customize it. Here are some tips and variations to consider:
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers for added nutrition and color. Sauté them along with the garlic for best results.
- Spice it Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while making the sauce.
- Substitute Proteins: This recipe isn’t just limited to shrimp. You can easily swap shrimp for chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Gluten-Free Option: To make this dish gluten-free, simply serve it over gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Vegan Variation: For a vegan-friendly version, use plant-based shrimp alternatives, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese.
- Avoid Common Mistakes: Ensure shrimp is cooked just until pink to avoid rubbery texture. Avoid high heat when adding cream to prevent separation.
Nutritional Values and Benefits
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides several nutritional benefits. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving, based on four servings:
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Dietary Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 500mg
Some benefits of the ingredients include:
- Shrimp: Low in calories and high in protein, shrimp are an excellent source of selenium and vitamin B12.
- Heavy Cream: Provides a rich source of vitamins A and D, as well as healthy fats.
- Garlic: Known for its numerous health benefits, garlic may help reduce blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
- Parmesan Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, Parmesan also adds flavor without needing much.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure to thaw them properly before cooking to ensure even cooking and texture.
What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta or rice. You can also serve it over zucchini noodles or alongside a fresh green salad.
How can I make this dish healthier?
To make it healthier, consider substituting heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream, and serve it over whole grain pasta or brown rice.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the shrimp can be cooked ahead of time, the creamy sauce is best made fresh to avoid separation. You can prepare the shrimp in advance and then quickly heat them with the sauce before serving.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream recipe is a delectable choice for any seafood lover. With its rich flavors and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinner parties. Don’t hesitate to try out this recipe, and feel free to share your own variations in the comments below. Your feedback, photos, or modifications are always welcome! Enjoy your culinary adventure with this creamy delight!
If you loved this recipe, check out more delicious ideas on our Pinterest page: Recipes Luna Blog on Pinterest.
For more tasty dishes, explore these recipes: Shrimp Stir Fry, Cheesy Butternut Squash Rice, and Honey Tahini Granola.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan Cheese, Italian Seasoning, and Heavy Cream
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Continue to stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over cooked pasta or rice.
