Name: Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp (31-40 count size, thawed & peeled); Salt & pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon flour; 4-5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe·4 from 26 reviews

There is nothing quite as satisfying as a dish that perfectly balances rich, zesty, and savory flavors all in one bite. This Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe embodies that harmony with succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious, velvety sauce bursting with bright lemon, roasted garlic, and the comforting depth of Parmesan cheese. It’s a quick, effortless crowd-pleaser that feels fancy enough for guests but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’s going to become one of your go-to meals when you want something truly indulgent without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A beige plastic colander filled with raw, peeled shrimp that have their tails still attached, showing a mix of white and light grey colors and a smooth texture. The colander rests on a white marbled surface, and drops of water are visible on the colander. The shrimp are piled loosely inside, filling most of the colander's bottom and rising just above its rim. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe, you’ll keep things delightfully straightforward with a handful of ingredients that each play a starring role. Every element, from the fresh lemon zest to the freshly grated Parmesan, contributes layers of flavor, creaminess, and freshness that turn this dish into an unforgettable treat.

1 pound shrimp: I recommend using 31-40 count size, thawed and peeled for ideal cooking time and texture.
2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps build the sauce base with a silky mouthfeel.
1 teaspoon flour: Works as a gentle thickening agent to give the sauce a perfect coat on the shrimp.
4-5 cloves garlic (minced): Brings that irresistible aromatic punch that makes garlic lovers rejoice.
1 tablespoon lemon juice + zest of 1 lemon: Provides bright acidity and fresh citrus notes that brighten the creamy sauce.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream: Creates the luxuriously smooth and indulgent sauce that clings to each shrimp.
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Infuses the dish with subtle herbaceous undertones, balancing the richness beautifully.
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: The star cheese adds salty, nutty flavor that enriches the sauce perfectly.
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped): A fresh, vibrant garnish that adds a pop of color and freshness at the end.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together just right.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Prep the shrimp

Start by rinsing your shrimp under cool water if they are frozen, then pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Removing the tails is optional, but I find it makes the dish easier to eat and plates up quite nicely. Dry shrimp will sear better and prevent the sauce from becoming watery.

Step 2: Create the flavorful base

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter until shimmering. Stir in the flour and let it cook for about a minute. This helps to gently toast the flour’s raw flavor and will serve as the foundation for your creamy sauce. This small step sets the stage for that luscious consistency we’re aiming for.

Step 3: Add the garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown too much, as burning garlic can introduce bitterness. This quick bloom releases the savory, aromatic oils that elevate the sauce right from the start.

Step 4: Build the creamy sauce

Now stir in the fresh lemon juice and zest, followed by the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Lower the heat slightly and let this luscious mixture simmer gently for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to marry and the sauce to thicken just a bit. The citrus brightness is what gives this creamy sauce a wonderful lift.

Step 5: Cook the shrimp

Gently add the prepared shrimp to the skillet, stirring occasionally. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, and the sauce thickens nicely. Keep an eye on the heat here to prevent the sauce from boiling too vigorously, which can cause it to separate or thicken unevenly. This step is where everything comes together.

Step 6: Finish with Parmesan and parsley

Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. The Parmesan melts into the sauce, enriching it with nutty depth, while the parsley brightens everything up both visually and in flavor.

Step 7: Season and serve

Finally, taste and adjust with salt and pepper to suit your preference. Serve the dish immediately to enjoy the shrimp perfectly tender and the sauce velvety smooth—this is where the Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe truly shines!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe

A white speckled bowl holds a layered dish starting with a bed of creamy mashed potatoes at the bottom, soft and slightly textured. On top of the potatoes, a thick, smooth white sauce is poured, covering much of the surface and pooling gently around the edges. Several pink-orange shrimp, curled and shiny, sit atop the sauce, lightly dusted with black pepper and small green herb pieces. A bright yellow lemon wedge rests beside the potatoes, adding a pop of color. The bowl is set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley, a thin lemon wedge on the side, or even a light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese enhance the appearance and add little bursts of flavor. The vibrant green parsley contrasts beautifully against the creamy sauce, inviting you to dive right in.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes soaks up every bit of the sauce. For a lighter contrast, steamed or roasted asparagus, green beans, or a crisp garden salad offer refreshing balance to the richness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, serve the shrimp over cooked pasta like fettuccine or angel hair for an elegant dinner. You can also present it in small ramekins as an appetizer or alongside slices of garlic bread for dipping. The versatility means this dish adapts to whatever your occasion calls for.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. The shrimp will still be delicious, but it’s best enjoyed fresh to preserve its tender texture and the sauce’s creaminess.

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, know that the texture of the cream sauce can change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, store the shrimp and sauce separately and use within one month for best results. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if it seems too thick. Avoid microwaving for better control to prevent overcooked shrimp and curdled sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw shrimp before cooking so they cook evenly and don’t release excess water, which can dilute the sauce. Running frozen shrimp under cold water until thawed works well and saves time.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk with a small amount of flour can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative that adds its own unique flavor twist.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch to thicken the sauce without changing the flavor profile.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Keep an eye on the shrimp as they cook; they only need about 5 minutes. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Reducing heat if the sauce is bubbling too fast helps avoid the shrimp becoming rubbery.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe reheats well with gentle care and can be portioned over your favorite grains or veggies for quick and delicious lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, once you whip up this Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Recipe, you’ll wonder why it wasn’t in your regular rotation already. It’s fast, comforting, elegant, and packs layers of flavor that feel special without complicated steps. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it brings a little sunshine to your table, any day of the week.