This creamy Parmesan basil shrimp dish is a real treat! Juicy shrimp are tossed in a rich sauce made from creamy cheese and fresh basil. It’s super easy to whip up!
You’ll love how the flavors come together so well. I like to serve it over pasta or rice for a complete meal. Trust me, it makes dinner feel fancy without much fuss! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this dish because they hold the sauce well. If you’re allergic or don’t have shrimp, try using chicken or firm tofu instead.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, you can substitute with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan brings a lot of flavor. If you’re in a pinch, Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes to maintain a cheesy taste.
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a lovely sweet-tangy flavor. If you prefer, try using fresh cherry tomatoes or omit them altogether for a simpler sauce.
Basil: Fresh basil is key for that vibrant taste. If unavailable, you might use dried basil, but fresh is really what makes this recipe shine. Also, try adding a little parsley for extra freshness!
How Do I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp perfectly ensures they are tender and juicy. Here are my tips for getting it right:
- Ensure shrimp are fresh or properly thawed. Avoid overcooking them as they can become rubbery.
- Heat your skillet well before adding shrimp. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes on each side. Shrimp turn pink and opaque when done.
- For extra flavor, add seasoning early or marinate your shrimp briefly before cooking.
With these steps, your shrimp will always be a hit!
Delicious Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup fresh basil, thinly sliced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 20 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the shrimp, followed by another 5-10 minutes to make the creamy sauce. It’s a quick recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Shrimp:
Start by heating the olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, black pepper, and half of the red pepper flakes. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Make the Garlic Cream Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it! Reduce the heat to medium, then pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir the mixture occasionally.
3. Add Cheese and Basil:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts into the sauce and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3-5 minutes. Once the sauce is creamy and smooth, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes (if using) and the fresh basil. Stir well to combine.
4. Combine the Shrimp with the Sauce:
Finally, return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them gently in the creamy sauce to make sure they’re well coated. Warm everything through for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your dish with fresh basil leaves and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top if you’d like. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy your creamy and delicious meal!
Bon appétit! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less creamy. For a dairy-free option, try using coconut cream or a nut-based cream substitute!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover creamy Parmesan basil shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the shrimp fresh when you’re ready to serve, then combine with the sauce. This ensures the shrimp remain tender and juicy!