Description
This Creamy Lemon Garlic Parmesan Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a luscious sauce made with butter, garlic, lemon, cream, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Ready in just 20 minutes, this easy skillet dish is perfect for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that combines rich, zesty, and savory flavors with a creamy texture.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound shrimp (31-40 count size, thawed & peeled)
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
Instructions
- Prep the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cool water if frozen. Remove tails if desired and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure even cooking.
- Make the roux base: Melt the butter over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Stir in the flour and cook for about one minute to form a light roux, which will help thicken the sauce.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the roux and cook for 30 seconds, releasing its aroma without burning.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, heavy cream, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 minutes to blend flavors and begin thickening.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp to the skillet. Cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Monitor heat to prevent over-thickening or overcooking the shrimp.
- Finish the sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, then remove the skillet from heat to avoid curdling or cheese over-melting.
- Season and serve: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Use medium-high heat for best sauté results but reduce heat if sauce thickens too quickly or bubbles excessively.
- Removing shrimp tails is optional but makes for easier eating.
- For a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though sauce will be less rich.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley adds bright color and flavor but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
