This Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp is a dreamy delight! Juicy shrimp are tossed in a rich sauce made with creamy cheese and fresh basil, giving it a burst of flavor.
Cooking this dish is so simple, and it looks fancy too! I love serving it over pasta or rice, and I always end up licking the plate clean. Who could blame me? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect for this dish, but feel free to use medium or even frozen shrimp if that’s what you have. Just remember to thaw them out in the fridge before cooking!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its creamy texture. If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can use half-and-half or even coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts much better than pre-grated. You can also substitute with Pecorino Romano for a stronger flavor if you like a bit of a kick!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. If you don’t have fresh spinach, kale or even frozen spinach can work too—just make sure to thaw and drain excess water.
Fresh Basil: It brings a fresh flavor to the dish. If fresh basil isn’t available, you could use about a teaspoon of dried basil instead, though the flavor won’t be quite as vibrant.
How Do I Ensure My Sauce Is the Right Consistency?
The sauce is the star of this recipe, so getting the right consistency matters! Start by simmering the cream and broth on a gentle heat. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit more until it thickens. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
- After adding the cheese, stir continuously until it melts into the sauce.
- Don’t rush the thickening process—patience ensures a luscious, creamy sauce!
- Always taste and adjust seasoning—more salt, pepper, or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavors.
Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy dish will take about 25 minutes to prepare and cook! You’ll spend about 10 minutes getting everything ready and 15 minutes cooking. In no time, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by seasoning the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt and pepper. This simple step brings out the wonderful flavors of the shrimp.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sauté for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. When done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Create the Garlic Butter Base:
In the same skillet (keeping all those delicious shrimp flavors), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or white wine), stirring to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer. It’s important to keep the heat at medium to prevent the cream from boiling too hard.
5. Add the Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until it melts and begins to thicken, which should take about 3-4 minutes. The sauce should become creamy and rich; be sure to stir continuously for the best results!
6. Incorporate Spinach:
Add the chopped spinach into the skillet and cook for another 2 minutes. The spinach will wilt and blend beautifully into the creamy sauce.
7. Final Touches:
Now, stir in the fresh basil, crushed red pepper flakes (if you want a bit of heat), and lemon juice. These ingredients will brighten up the dish!
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let it heat through for another minute; this ensures the shrimp are warm and flavorful.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Creamy Parmesan Basil Shrimp hot. Garnish with extra sliced basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a lovely finishing touch. It pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or some crusty bread to soak up every last drop of that delicious sauce!
Enjoy your delightful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
How Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce in advance! Cook the sauce, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to eat, reheat the sauce over low heat, then add the shrimp and spinach just before serving.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
