Description
This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and tangy sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and fresh lemon. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick and elegant dinner that balances zesty citrus with savory creaminess.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Heat fats: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat until melted and warm, forming the base for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Simmer broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly, concentrating the flavors.
- Make sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook the sauce for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly to a creamy consistency.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them well to coat with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.
- Season and garnish: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a fresh touch.
Notes
- Use large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- Serve this dish over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice provide a bright contrast to the rich Parmesan cream sauce.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
