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Shrimp Paesano Recipe

Shrimp Paesano Recipe

A rich, creamy, garlic-butter shrimp dish inspired by the iconic Paesano's restaurant in San Antonio. This easy shrimp paesano recipe comes together in just 30 minutes and is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or elegant weekend meal. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for an unforgettable meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb 450g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ tsp salt or to taste
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp paprika optional, for color
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ cup dry white wine e.g., Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • Optional: red pepper flakes lemon wedges, extra Parmesan for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Citrus Juicer (optional)
  • Pasta pot (if serving with pasta)

Method
 

  1. Season the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
  2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1½–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté Garlic: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it brown).
  4. Deglaze with Wine and Lemon: Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Stir and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Let simmer for 2–3 minutes to reduce slightly.
  5. Add Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Return Shrimp and Finish: Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to reheat. Sprinkle with fresh parsley.
    Shrimp Paesano Recipe

Notes

  • Shrimp size: Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and presentation.
  • Make it lighter: Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, or use milk + a spoon of cornstarch.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook fast and can become rubbery—remove once pink and firm.
  • Storage: Best eaten fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
  • Add-ins: Try spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and color.
  • Pairing tip: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the sauce perfectly.
  • Shrimp Paesano Recipe