High-Protein Shrimp & Lamb Alfredo
High-Protein Shrimp & Lamb Alfredo
Creamy, rich, and packed with protein, this Shrimp & Lamb Alfredo combines juicy, pan-seared lamb chops and tender garlic shrimp in a velvety Parmesan Alfredo sauce. It’s a satisfying restaurant-style dinner with plenty of protein and an easy low-carb option.
Recipe Details
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Protein: Approximately 60–70 g per serving, depending on the lamb chop size and actual edible meat weight
- Diet: High-protein, low-carb without pasta or flour
Ingredients
Protein
- 6 small lamb chops (350–400 g total, bone-in)
- 200 g peeled and deveined shrimp
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Creamy Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- ¾ cup (180 ml) heavy cream
- ½ cup (50 g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
- Pinch of nutmeg, optional
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
- Steamed broccoli or zucchini noodles for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Season the lamb chops
Pat the lamb chops dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Step 2: Sear the lamb chops
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the lamb chops and sear for approximately 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness.
For food safety, whole cuts of lamb should reach at least 63°C (145°F), followed by a 3-minute rest. Transfer the lamb to a plate and let it rest while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, until opaque and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Prepare the garlic Alfredo sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional nutmeg. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Avoid boiling vigorously.
Step 5: Add the Parmesan
Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan until melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the salt as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or unsalted broth.
Step 6: Combine the shrimp and sauce
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently in the Alfredo sauce. If using spinach or mushrooms, cook them in the sauce until tender.
Simmer for another 1–2 minutes on low heat.
Step 7: Plate and serve
Arrange the lamb chops on two plates and spoon the creamy garlic shrimp Alfredo alongside them. Pour extra sauce over the shrimp and finish with chopped parsley and Parmesan.
Serve with steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or zucchini noodles for a complete low-carb meal.
Estimated Nutrition
Per serving, assuming the recipe makes two servings:
- Calories: 700–900
- Protein: 60–70 g
- Total carbohydrates: 5–9 g
- Fat: 45–65 g
These are rough estimates. Lamb chop size, edible meat after removing bones, cream, and Parmesan quantities can significantly change the nutrition.
Tips for the Best Results
- For extra protein: Increase the shrimp or use more lean edible lamb meat.
- For fewer carbs: Skip pasta, flour, and cornstarch; serve with vegetables instead.
- For a silky sauce: Keep the heat low after adding Parmesan to prevent separation.
- For more flavor: Add a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving.
- For meal prep: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
Enjoy! This creamy shrimp and lamb Alfredo is a hearty, high-protein meal that delivers rich garlic-Parmesan flavor while keeping carbohydrates low.