Are you ready to savor a dish that’s both cheesy and rich in flavor? My Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp combines tender shrimp with a buttery, creamy sauce loaded with garlic and cheese. It’s simple enough for any cook, yet impressive enough for guests. Get ready to whip up this delightful dish that turns ordinary meals into extraordinary experiences. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make magic happen in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
Optional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Garnishes
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp, you need some key ingredients. The shrimp is the star. I love using large shrimp because they cook quickly and taste great. You want to peel and devein them before cooking.
Next, you’ll need unsalted butter. This adds richness and flavor to the dish. Garlic is essential too. Fresh minced garlic gives a strong taste that pairs well with shrimp.
For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and smooth.
Mozzarella cheese is what makes it cheesy and delicious. Don’t forget Parmesan cheese for that salty finish.
You can season with salt and black pepper to taste. Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. Finally, lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing on top before eating.
For the full recipe, check the full recipe section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt. Next, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. This adds a nice kick to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your taste.
Cooking the Shrimp
Now, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Season them with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. This means they are perfectly cooked.
Creating the Sauce
Once the shrimp are ready, turn the heat back to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. This will form the base of your sauce. Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt. You want a creamy and smooth sauce that clings to the shrimp.
Final Touches
Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This will help it thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Drizzle some extra sauce over the shrimp for an appealing look. This recipe is a fun way to enjoy a savory dish at home. For the full recipe, check the earlier sections.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To prevent shrimp from overcooking, watch the color closely. When shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. Remove them from heat right away. This keeps them tender and juicy.
For sautéing garlic, use medium heat. Too high can burn the garlic, making it bitter. Cook it for just one minute until it smells great. This will give your dish a lovely flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
To adjust the spice level, add more or less red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount. You can always add more later. This lets you control the heat to match your taste.
For cheese, mozzarella and Parmesan work well together. You can also try cheddar or Gouda for a twist. Each cheese adds a different flavor and texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp with crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can also serve it over pasta for a filling meal.
For presentation, use shallow bowls or plates. Drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle more parsley for color. This makes your dish look as good as it tastes. Explore the [Full Recipe] for more tips on serving!
Variations
Alternative Protein Options
You can switch up the protein in this dish. Scallops cook quickly, just like shrimp. They add a sweet taste. Chicken is another option. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. Cut them into small pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown.
For vegetarian adaptations, try using mushrooms or tofu. Both soak up flavors well. If you use mushrooms, choose large ones for a hearty bite. Tofu can be marinated for extra flavor. Cook it until crispy for great texture.
Flavor Modifications
Want to add more flavor? Toss in some veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Spinach wilts nicely in the sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy kick. You can also play with herbs. Try basil or thyme for a fresh twist. These herbs add depth and aroma.
Do not be afraid to experiment! Each change can create a new dish.
Sauce Alternatives
You can choose between creamy or non-creamy sauces. A creamy sauce is rich and comforting. If you prefer a lighter dish, use broth instead of cream. This will still taste great.
For vegan options, swap out dairy. Use coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess. Nutritional yeast can replace cheesy flavors. This gives you a savory kick without dairy.
These variations let you make the dish your own. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas!
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and safe. Label the container with the date you made the dish. This way, you know when to use it. The shelf life in the fridge is about 2 to 3 days. After that, the shrimp may lose quality.
Freezing
For freezing, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Shrimp can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, move the container to the fridge for about 8 hours or overnight. For quick thawing, you can run cold water over the bag.
Reheating Tips
The best method for reheating is on the stove. Use low heat to warm the shrimp gently. This keeps them tender and moist. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Aim for a temperature of 165°F for safe eating. Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp with the rich flavors intact!
FAQs
Common Questions
What wine pairs well with Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp?
A crisp white wine works best. I recommend a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. They balance the rich sauce and fresh shrimp flavors. A chilled glass enhances your meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead. Cook the shrimp until just pink. Cool it quickly, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on low heat.
Nutritional Information
How many calories are in Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Each serving has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the amount of butter and cheese you use. It’s a rich dish, so enjoy in moderation.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, this dish is gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free. The heavy cream and cheeses do not contain gluten.
More About the Recipe
Where did Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp originate?
Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp has roots in Mediterranean cuisine. It combines classic flavors from Italian and Spanish dishes. Shrimp is popular in many coastal regions worldwide.
How can I customize the recipe to my taste?
You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For some heat, use more red pepper flakes. Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.
You’ve now learned how to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp. We explored key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips on enhancing flavors and offered variations to keep things exciting. Don’t forget about storage tips to keep your leftovers fresh. Remember, this recipe is flexible. You can swap proteins or adjust the spice level based on your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress your friends with this delicious dish!
![- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter - 4 cloves garlic, minced - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste) - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped - Lemon wedges (for serving) To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp, you need some key ingredients. The shrimp is the star. I love using large shrimp because they cook quickly and taste great. You want to peel and devein them before cooking. Next, you’ll need unsalted butter. This adds richness and flavor to the dish. Garlic is essential too. Fresh minced garlic gives a strong taste that pairs well with shrimp. For an extra kick, consider adding red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. Heavy cream makes the sauce creamy and smooth. Mozzarella cheese is what makes it cheesy and delicious. Don’t forget Parmesan cheese for that salty finish. You can season with salt and black pepper to taste. Fresh parsley adds color and a fresh taste. Finally, lemon wedges are perfect for squeezing on top before eating. For the full recipe, check the full recipe section. Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it melts, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about one minute. You want it fragrant but not burnt. Next, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. This adds a nice kick to the dish. You can adjust the amount based on your taste. Now, increase the heat to medium-high. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan. Season them with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. This means they are perfectly cooked. Once the shrimp are ready, turn the heat back to medium. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently. This will form the base of your sauce. Gradually add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheeses melt. You want a creamy and smooth sauce that clings to the shrimp. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. This will help it thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side. Drizzle some extra sauce over the shrimp for an appealing look. This recipe is a fun way to enjoy a savory dish at home. For the full recipe, check the earlier sections. To prevent shrimp from overcooking, watch the color closely. When shrimp turn pink and opaque, they are done. Remove them from heat right away. This keeps them tender and juicy. For sautéing garlic, use medium heat. Too high can burn the garlic, making it bitter. Cook it for just one minute until it smells great. This will give your dish a lovely flavor. To adjust the spice level, add more or less red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount. You can always add more later. This lets you control the heat to match your taste. For cheese, mozzarella and Parmesan work well together. You can also try cheddar or Gouda for a twist. Each cheese adds a different flavor and texture. Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp with crusty bread. It’s perfect for soaking up the sauce. You can also serve it over pasta for a filling meal. For presentation, use shallow bowls or plates. Drizzle extra sauce on top and sprinkle more parsley for color. This makes your dish look as good as it tastes. Explore the [Full Recipe] for more tips on serving! {{image_2}} You can switch up the protein in this dish. Scallops cook quickly, just like shrimp. They add a sweet taste. Chicken is another option. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a tender bite. Cut them into small pieces. Cook them until they are golden brown. For vegetarian adaptations, try using mushrooms or tofu. Both soak up flavors well. If you use mushrooms, choose large ones for a hearty bite. Tofu can be marinated for extra flavor. Cook it until crispy for great texture. Want to add more flavor? Toss in some veggies like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes. Spinach wilts nicely in the sauce. Sun-dried tomatoes bring a tangy kick. You can also play with herbs. Try basil or thyme for a fresh twist. These herbs add depth and aroma. Do not be afraid to experiment! Each change can create a new dish. You can choose between creamy or non-creamy sauces. A creamy sauce is rich and comforting. If you prefer a lighter dish, use broth instead of cream. This will still taste great. For vegan options, swap out dairy. Use coconut milk or almond milk for creaminess. Nutritional yeast can replace cheesy flavors. This gives you a savory kick without dairy. These variations let you make the dish your own. Check out the Full Recipe for more ideas! To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and safe. Label the container with the date you made the dish. This way, you know when to use it. The shelf life in the fridge is about 2 to 3 days. After that, the shrimp may lose quality. For freezing, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. Shrimp can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw, move the container to the fridge for about 8 hours or overnight. For quick thawing, you can run cold water over the bag. The best method for reheating is on the stove. Use low heat to warm the shrimp gently. This keeps them tender and moist. Stir occasionally to heat evenly. You can also reheat in the microwave. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a lid. Heat for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Aim for a temperature of 165°F for safe eating. Enjoy your Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp with the rich flavors intact! What wine pairs well with Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp? A crisp white wine works best. I recommend a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. They balance the rich sauce and fresh shrimp flavors. A chilled glass enhances your meal. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce ahead. Cook the shrimp until just pink. Cool it quickly, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently on low heat. How many calories are in Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp? Each serving has about 400 calories. This may vary based on the amount of butter and cheese you use. It’s a rich dish, so enjoy in moderation. Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets? Yes, this dish is gluten-free. Just ensure all your ingredients are gluten-free. The heavy cream and cheeses do not contain gluten. Where did Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp originate? Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp has roots in Mediterranean cuisine. It combines classic flavors from Italian and Spanish dishes. Shrimp is popular in many coastal regions worldwide. How can I customize the recipe to my taste? You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. For some heat, use more red pepper flakes. Try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors. You’ve now learned how to make Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp. We explored key ingredients and step-by-step cooking instructions. I shared tips on enhancing flavors and offered variations to keep things exciting. Don’t forget about storage tips to keep your leftovers fresh. Remember, this recipe is flexible. You can swap proteins or adjust the spice level based on your taste. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress your friends with this delicious dish!](https://emmasdish.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/69fa4acd-26ff-4cad-83d7-673042a39f6e-250x250.webp)