Name: Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound jumbo-sized shrimp or banana prawns (peeled and deveined); 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 2 tablespoons garlic (minced); 1.5 cups milk (full-fat or 2%, or substitute with reduced fat cream, heavy cream, or thickened cream); 1/3 cup parmesan cheese (fresh grated, plus extra to serve); 1 teaspoon cornstarch (mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk); 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon, adjust to your taste)

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If you’re looking for a dish that balances creamy, tangy, and savory flavors, look no further than this Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp. Perfectly cooked shrimp bathed in a luscious lemon-parmesan sauce creates a delightful meal that feels both elegant and comforting. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to please. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this mouthwatering dish!

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

– Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– The creamy sauce is bursting with lemony flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
– A dish that feels fancy yet can be made in under 30 minutes.
– Versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables.

What’s in the Bowl

1 pound jumbo-sized shrimp or banana prawns, peeled and deveined
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups milk (full-fat or 2%, or substitute with reduced fat cream, heavy cream, or thickened cream)
1/3 cup parmesan cheese, fresh grated, plus extra to serve
1 teaspoon cornstarch (cornflour), mixed with 1 tablespoon of milk
3-4 tablespoons lemon juice (juice of 1 lemon, adjust to your taste)

Before You Start: Equipment

Large skillet: For cooking the shrimp and sauce.
Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient measurements.
Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the sauce.
Whisk: To mix the cornstarch with milk smoothly.
Serving dish: To present your delicious creamy shrimp.

Cook Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp Like This

Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the butter or olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Base

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the milk, stirring to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. As it heats, gradually whisk in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of milk until smooth. Slowly add this mixture to the sauce, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens. This should take about 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Stir in the lemon juice, adjusting the amount to your taste. The lemon should brighten up the sauce beautifully, balancing the richness of the parmesan.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp with Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy lemon parmesan sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Serve your Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan cheese if desired. Pair it with your favorite side—pasta, rice, or a fresh salad works wonderfully!

Vegan & Vegetarian Swaps

Use plant-based butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
Replace shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a hearty vegan alternative.
Substitute milk with almond milk, coconut cream, or any preferred plant-based milk.
Use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Author’s Commentary

This Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp recipe is a personal favorite of mine. It brings together the bright zest of lemon with the savory depth of parmesan, creating a sauce that you’ll want to slather over everything. I love how simple the ingredients are, yet they come together to create a meal that feels special. It’s one of those recipes that can easily be customized with your favorite herbs or spices, making it adaptable for any palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Leftover Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, simply reheat it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk to loosen the sauce if necessary. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but the flavors meld beautifully, making leftovers a treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.

What can I serve with Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. A light salad would also complement the creamy flavors well.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the milk with a non-dairy alternative and use nutritional yeast instead of parmesan for a dairy-free version.

How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

Feel free to incorporate fresh herbs like basil or parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A splash of white wine can also enhance the flavor!

Keep Cooking

Ready, Set, Cook

Now that you have all the details to make your own Creamy Lemon Parmesan Shrimp, it’s time to get cooking! This recipe is your ticket to a fabulous meal that’s sure to impress. Grab your ingredients, gather your equipment, and let’s make something delicious today! Enjoy every creamy, lemony bite!