Applebee’s Shrimp Parmesan Sauce Recipe Made Easy

If you love the rich and savory flavors of Applebee’s Shrimp Parmesan, you’re in for a treat! This beloved dish combines succulent shrimp with a luscious, creamy parmesan sauce that’s bursting with garlic, herbs, and a hint of tangy tomato.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a restaurant-quality meal at home, mastering this recipe is easier than you think.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to recreate Applebee’s famous shrimp parmesan sauce recipe. From fresh ingredients to perfect seasoning, you’ll learn how to whip up this crowd-pleaser in your own kitchen.

Plus, we’ll share tips, variations, and serving suggestions to make this dish your new favorite go-to for dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe stands out because it balances creamy, cheesy parmesan with perfectly cooked shrimp and a hint of Italian herbs. The sauce is rich but not overwhelming, making it a perfect partner for pasta, rice, or even crusty bread.

It’s a versatile dish that suits weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick to prepare, requiring only about 30 minutes from start to finish. Plus, it uses accessible ingredients you likely already have on hand or can easily find at your local grocery store.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking to try something new, this recipe will quickly become a staple. And if you enjoy exploring more flavorful dishes, check out our Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for another delightful meal option!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup marinara sauce (or your favorite tomato-based pasta sauce)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Cooked pasta or rice, for serving

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Grater for Parmesan cheese
• Serving plates or bowls

Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the garlic: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Make the parmesan sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and marinara sauce, stirring to combine. Add the dried Italian seasoning and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Return shrimp to the sauce: Place the cooked shrimp back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the creamy parmesan sauce and warm through for 2 minutes.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately over cooked pasta, rice, or alongside a crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Tips & Variations

For the best flavor, use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If frozen shrimp are your only option, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

To make the sauce lighter, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream, but keep in mind the sauce will be less rich. For those who love a smoky depth, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika to the sauce.

If you want to amp up the garlic flavor, try roasting the garlic first or add a pinch of garlic powder along with the fresh minced garlic. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle extra Parmesan on top before serving or broil briefly for a golden crust.

Looking for a plant-based alternative? While this recipe centers on shrimp, you might enjoy our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food or the refreshing Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas for other vegan meal inspirations.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This shrimp parmesan dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over al dente linguine or fettuccine for a classic Italian feel.

Alternatively, creamy mashed potatoes or a fluffy rice pilaf can soak up the delicious sauce perfectly.

For a lighter option, pair with steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, or green beans. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the sauce wonderfully.

Don’t forget to have some Best Vegan Chocolate Recipes for Decadent Desserts ready to finish your meal on a sweet note!

Conclusion

Recreating Applebee’s shrimp parmesan sauce at home is a fantastic way to enjoy restaurant-quality flavors without the wait or expense. This recipe is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory with a subtle hint of spice, making it irresistible for shrimp lovers and pasta enthusiasts alike.

With its straightforward ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip this dish up any night of the week, impressing family and friends with your culinary skills. Plus, the versatility in serving options means you can customize it to suit your taste and dietary preferences.

For more exciting and delicious recipes, be sure to explore our collection like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or the Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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