Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a quick and indulgent dish that brings together tender shrimp simmered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need an elegant meal in minutes, this dish is both satisfying and full of flavor. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the luscious sauce.
ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
shrimp (peeled and deveined)garlicbutterolive oilheavy creamParmesan cheesesalt and pepperparsley (for garnish)optional: red pepper flakes or lemon juice for extra zing
directions
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
Remove shrimp and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes or lemon juice.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
Cook for another 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp.
Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 10 minutesTotal time: 15 minutes
Variations
Substitute coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
Use scallops or chicken instead of shrimp.
Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.Avoid microwaving, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
What cream is best?
Heavy cream provides the best richness and texture.
Can I make it spicy?
Yes, add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
It adds flavor and thickens the sauce, but you can skip or substitute with a dairy-free alternative.
Can I make it ahead?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep ingredients ahead and cook when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a luxurious yet lightning-fast dish perfect for any night of the week. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe when you’re short on time but craving something delicious.
Print
Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main course or appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian‑inspired
Description
Succulent shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic‑cream sauce, ready in just 15 minutes—perfect for a quick dinner or elegant appetizer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup low‑sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (about half a lemon)
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium‑high heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through; remove and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any brown bits; then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Simmer 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Return shrimp to pan, toss to coat, then stir in lemon juice and parsley; adjust seasoning and add red pepper flakes if using.
- Serve immediately, spooning creamy garlic sauce over shrimp. Garnish with extra parsley or a lemon wedge.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half‑and‑half for heavy cream.
- Add more heat with extra red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne.
- Pair with crusty bread, pasta, or rice to soak up the garlicky sauce.
- Don’t overcook shrimp: they turn rubbery quickly once pink.
- Make ahead tip: prepare sauce ahead and reheat gently, then add freshly cooked shrimp just before serving.