Applebee's Parmesan Shrimp has been a crowd pleaser for years, and today, we're excited to share the secret behind this dish's deliciousness. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through how to make this dish in your kitchen, ensuring you can impress your friends and family with a taste of Applebee's right at home. Whether you're a culinary expert or a kitchen newbie, our step-by-step instructions will have you serving up a restaurant-quality meal with ease.
The Secret Behind Applebee's Parmesan Shrimp
The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Crispiness: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese creates the perfect crunch.
- Freshness: Using fresh shrimp is crucial for that burst of flavor.
- Sauces: Applebee's uses a blend of creamy parmesan and zesty garlic that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
Ingredients You'll Need
Here are the ingredients to make Applebee's Parmesan Shrimp:
| Item | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Large shrimp (deveined, shell removed) | 1 pound | Main protein |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup | For coating |
| Egg | 2 | To bind the breading |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 1/2 cups | For crispy texture |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | For flavor |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Flavoring |
| Salt | To taste | Seasoning |
| Vegetable oil | For frying | To cook the shrimp |
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
1. Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure the breading sticks well.
2. Set Up Breading Stations
- Station 1: Add the flour in a shallow bowl.
- Station 2: Beat the eggs with a splash of water or milk.
- Station 3: Mix breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt in another bowl.
3. Bread the Shrimp
- Dip each shrimp in the flour, shake off excess.
- Then, dip it into the egg mixture.
- Finally, coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
🍤 Note: To ensure the breading adheres well, press the breadcrumbs onto the shrimp.
4. Fry the Shrimp
- Heat about 1 inch of oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F.
- Fry the shrimp in batches until they are golden brown, roughly 2-3 minutes per side.
- Use a slotted spoon to transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
5. The Parmesan Garlic Sauce
- In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic (about 2 cloves), sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1⁄2 cup of grated parmesan, and season with salt and pepper.
- Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, whisking occasionally.
Tips for the Perfect Parmesan Shrimp
- Use fresh shrimp to ensure the best flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when frying; it will lower the oil’s temperature and can result in soggy shrimp.
- For extra zest, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce or as a garnish.
- If the sauce is too thick, thin it with some of the oil used for frying.
Creating Applebee's Parmesan Shrimp at home involves more than just following a recipe; it's about capturing the essence of dining out in your own kitchen. From choosing the right ingredients to mastering the art of breading and frying, you now have the tools to recreate this beloved dish.
Remember, the real joy in cooking lies in sharing the meal with loved ones, so invite over some friends or family to enjoy your culinary creation. The combination of crispy shrimp, rich parmesan, and creamy garlic sauce offers a taste that feels indulgent and satisfying. By paying attention to the details, from the freshness of the shrimp to the balance of flavors in the sauce, you're not just cooking; you're crafting a dining experience.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
+
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry before breading to avoid excess moisture affecting the breading process.
What can I do if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
+
You can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko yields a much crispier result due to its texture. If you’re using regular breadcrumbs, consider toasting them slightly to enhance crispiness.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off during frying?
+
Ensure the shrimp are thoroughly dry, apply a light coating of flour before egg wash, and let the breading set for a few minutes before frying. Also, ensure your oil is at the correct temperature to prevent the breading from absorbing too much oil.
