Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
If you’re following a keto lifestyle and craving something indulgent yet low in carbs, this Creamy Parmesan Shrimp recipe is a must-try. Loaded with rich flavors from heavy cream, parmesan cheese, fresh basil, and roasted red peppers, this dish feels luxurious without breaking your macros.
Why This Creamy Parmesan Shrimp is Perfect for Keto
At just 8.3g net carbs per serving, this meal is well within the range for a standard ketogenic diet, which typically limits carbs to around 20–50g per day. Additionally, it delivers a high dose of quality fats (33.2g) and lean protein (47.8g), helping to keep you full and satisfied.
According to clinical research, diets high in protein and fat, and low in carbohydrates, can help improve weight management, insulin sensitivity, and mental clarity.
Ingredients
- 1½ lbs shrimp, peeled and deveined
- ½ cup chicken stock
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- ¼ tsp paprika
- 3 oz roasted red peppers, sliced
- ½ onion, minced
- 1 tbsp garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear for 1–2 minutes until they start turning pink. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining butter to the pan along with red pepper flakes, paprika, roasted red peppers, garlic, and onion. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken stock and cook until the liquid is reduced by half, about 5 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Mix in the grated parmesan cheese and fresh basil, stirring until melted and combined.
- Return the shrimp to the pan and cook for another 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Serve hot with a garnish of extra basil or grated parmesan.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 524
- Fats: 33.2g
- Carbohydrates: 8.3g
- Sugars: 1.7g
- Protein: 47.8g
- Cholesterol: 459mg
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with low-carb sides like zucchini noodles, cauliflower mash, or a crisp green salad. If you're looking for a restaurant-style dinner at home that fits your macros, this Creamy Parmesan Shrimp is a top contender.
Health Tip
Shrimp is an excellent source of selenium and iodine, two essential nutrients for thyroid health. Combined with basil’s anti-inflammatory properties and the calcium-rich parmesan, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're new to keto or a seasoned low-carb eater, this recipe offers a satisfying, gourmet experience in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or even a romantic dinner in.
Looking for more keto recipes like this? Download your FREE 21 Keto Recipes Cookbook here:
For more keto health tips and science-backed guides, visit Healthline’s Keto Guide.