If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and elegant dish, Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is the perfect choice. This recipe combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that feels gourmet but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, a special date-night meal, or a party appetizer, this garlic Parmesan shrimp recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these simple yet powerful ingredients:
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1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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3 tablespoons butter
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a mild kick)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
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Juice of 1/2 lemon
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Cooked pasta or crusty bread, for serving
These ingredients may be common in your pantry, but when combined, they create an explosion of flavor that is hard to resist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the shrimp sear perfectly in the pan, achieving a slightly crispy exterior while staying tender inside. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, lightly sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Using a combination of butter and olive oil ensures that the butter doesn’t burn while still giving the shrimp that rich, buttery flavor. Once the butter melts and begins to bubble, it’s time for the garlic.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be careful not to burn it—burned garlic becomes bitter and can overpower the delicate flavor of the shrimp. The aroma of garlic filling your kitchen at this point is the first sign that dinner will be incredible.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer to the skillet. Avoid overcrowding the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. They should have a slightly golden exterior but remain juicy inside. Overcooking shrimp can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
Step 5: Add Parmesan and Lemon
Once the shrimp are cooked, lower the heat to medium and sprinkle the grated Parmesan over them. Stir gently to coat the shrimp in the cheese and garlic butter. Immediately squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp, which adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the butter and cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a subtle earthy flavor that complements the richness of the Parmesan. Serve the garlic Parmesan shrimp immediately with your choice of accompaniment. They pair wonderfully with linguine or spaghetti, making a quick pasta dish, or alongside crusty bread, perfect for soaking up the garlicky sauce. For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
Tips for the Perfect Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
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Use fresh shrimp if possible. Frozen shrimp are convenient, but fresh shrimp have a firmer texture and sweeter flavor. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan. Searing shrimp in batches ensures even cooking and a better texture.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting properly.
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Adjust garlic to taste. Garlic is the star of this dish; use more or less depending on your preference.
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Serve immediately. Shrimp cook quickly, and their texture is best right out of the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Garlic Parmesan shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in multiple ways:
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Over Pasta: Toss with cooked linguine or spaghetti for a quick, creamy pasta dish.
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With Rice or Quinoa: Serve the shrimp over steamed rice or fluffy quinoa for a wholesome meal.
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As an Appetizer: Place shrimp on skewers or serve in small bowls with a slice of lemon and some fresh parsley.
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With Vegetables: Pair with roasted or sautéed vegetables for a light, nutritious dinner.
Why This Dish Is So Special
The magic of garlic Parmesan shrimp lies in its simplicity. With minimal ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you achieve a restaurant-quality dish that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of tender shrimp, rich butter, sharp Parmesan, and zesty lemon is satisfying and addictive. Plus, it’s quick to make—perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute guests.
Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this garlic Parmesan shrimp recipe is easy to master and guaranteed to impress. The vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation make it a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Enjoy your Garlic Parmesan Shrimp with a glass of crisp white wine, a light salad, or your favorite pasta. It’s an elegant, delicious, and effortless dish that brings gourmet dining into your home kitchen.
