Oven-Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Garlic Butter and Parmesan Recipe
If you love seafood that feels indulgent yet comes together in a flash, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is about to become your new favorite weeknight go-to. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-infused cream sauce that has just the right hint of Parmesan and a touch of brightness from fresh lemon and parsley. This dish is comfort food elevated, satisfying both your cravings for richness and freshness in every bite. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up without fuss, making it perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself after a long day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, bringing layers of flavor and texture that make the dish so memorable. From the sweetness of fresh shrimp to the silky cream and sharp Parmesan, every element is essential.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture; large size ensures a satisfying bite.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds subtle fruitiness and helps sear the shrimp to perfection.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Brings richness and a velvety mouthfeel to the sauce.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that’s impossible to resist.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, creamy base that clings beautifully to every shrimp.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and a slight nuttiness that complements the creaminess.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who crave a gentle kick without overpowering the garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors perfectly without making it taste salty.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Frames the garlic and cream with a mild, spicy undertone.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Lifts the richness with a burst of citrus brightness.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Sprinkles color and a fresh herbal note right before serving.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook them just 1 to 2 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. This quick sear locks in their juiciness and builds the base for the sauce. Remove the shrimp and set them aside to keep them from overcooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet. As the butter melts, toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. You’ll start to smell that wonderful, slightly sweet garlic aroma filling your kitchen. This step is key to infusing the sauce with deep flavor without burning the garlic.
Step 3: Create the Cream Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. As it heats, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese along with the optional red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let this simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth, ready to coat every shrimp beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring them gently so they’re fully coated with the luscious cream sauce. Let everything cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until the shrimp are warmed through and the sauce clings perfectly.
Step 5: Brighten and Garnish
Finish the dish by stirring in the fresh lemon juice to balance the richness. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top for a vibrant pop of color and herbaceous freshness that finishes it all off beautifully.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation, add an extra pinch of freshly chopped parsley or even a few twists of lemon zest. These little touches add brightness and freshness that highlight the creamy sauce and delicate shrimp perfectly.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over al dente pasta or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that heavenly sauce. For a lighter option, steamed rice or crusty garlic bread offer excellent textures and soak-up power.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the shrimp atop a bed of sautéed spinach or even stuffed inside a warm pita with some crunchy veggies for a fusion-style meal. Presentation wise, using a shallow bowl helps showcase that creamy sauce and makes every bite inviting and beautiful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because of the dairy content, it’s best enjoyed fresh, but storing it correctly will preserve the flavors and texture as much as possible.
Freezing
While freezing creamy shrimp dishes can be tricky due to the cream sauce’s tendency to separate, you can freeze the cooked shrimp separately. Thaw and gently reheat on the stovetop with a little cream or butter to refresh the sauce.
Reheating
Reheat your leftover shrimp gently over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of heavy cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s silky consistency without overcooking the shrimp. Microwave reheating is possible but less recommended to prevent rubbery shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in your pan, which could thin out your sauce.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter sauce?
You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a little butter for a lighter version, but expect a slightly less rich and creamy texture.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your Parmesan cheese doesn’t contain any additives with gluten. Always check labels if you have dietary restrictions.
How spicy is this recipe with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle warmth, not overwhelming heat. You can adjust or omit them according to your spice preference.
Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe?
Definitely! Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even asparagus can be added to boost color, flavor, and nutrition while keeping the creamy garlic goodness intact.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a dish that feels fancy yet is unbelievably simple, give this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe a try. It’s one of those meals that brings warmth and comfort to your table with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this creamy, garlicky delight in your recipe arsenal. Trust me, your shrimp game will never be the same!
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Oven-Roasted Cauliflower with Lemon Garlic Butter and Parmesan Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce with Parmesan cheese and a hint of lemon, perfect for a quick and elegant dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Cooking Fats and Oils
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Sauce Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make Cream Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to coat with the sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until shrimp are heated through.
- Finish and Garnish: Add lemon juice to the skillet, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and stir before serving.
- Serve: Serve the creamy garlic shrimp hot over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread for a delicious meal.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra color and flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp—they cook very quickly and can become tough.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Italian-Inspired
