This Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp is a delightful dish that’s rich and cheesy. With juicy shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce, every bite is pure comfort food!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star of this dish. If you have dietary restrictions, you can use chicken or tofu as a substitute, though they will need different cooking times.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Just keep in mind the flavor may be slightly different!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully. If you’re in a pinch, use pre-grated cheese or swap with Pecorino Romano for a bolder flavor.
Fresh Basil: Fresh basil elevates the dish. If you don’t have any, you can use dried basil, but start with less as it’s more concentrated. I personally love adding extra fresh basil at the end for that burst of flavor!
How Do You Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce?
The sauce’s creaminess comes from slowly melting the Parmesan into the heavy cream. Here’s how to do it right:
- Cook garlic in the skillet to infuse the oil before adding the cream. Be careful not to burn it!
- Once the cream bubbles, reduce the heat and stir in the Parmesan gradually. This helps it incorporate smoothly without clumping.
- Keep stirring until it thickens slightly. If it gets too thick, just add a splash more cream to reach your desired consistency.
Achieving that perfect creamy texture takes patience, but it’s worth it for the final dish! Enjoy your cooking experience!
Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced, plus extra for garnish
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crusty bread or cooked pasta/rice for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prepare for approximately 10 minutes of prep time, followed by about 15 minutes of cooking time. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious creamy dish ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Olive Oil:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. This will create a hot surface for perfectly cooked shrimp.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. As it heats, stir occasionally to mix things well.
5. Add the Cheese:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add the crushed red pepper flakes and thinly sliced basil leaves. Taste the sauce, then adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Combine with Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Heat through for about 1 to 2 minutes.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with extra fresh basil leaves for visual appeal. Serve immediately with crusty bread, or over cooked pasta or rice to enjoy every drop of that creamy sauce.
Enjoy your luxurious Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp! This dish is sure to impress anyone at your table!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking for even cooking. The best method is to place them in the refrigerator overnight or, if you’re short on time, submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream. Keep in mind that this may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce thickens too much.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, feel free to increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce while cooking. Just remember to taste as you go to find your preferred spice level!
