Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a dream come true for anyone who loves rich, creamy dishes but doesn’t want to spend too much time cooking. The shrimp are perfectly seared and then coated in a creamy garlic sauce that’s full of flavor. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and Italian seasoning makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights or any time you need a fast, yet indulgent meal.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional). Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Combine & Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
6. Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for more heat.
• Cream Cheese: Swap some of the heavy cream with cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
• Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for added flavor and texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just make sure that the chicken broth you use is gluten-free.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese as alternatives to Parmesan for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the shrimp are cooked through?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should be firm to the touch but not rubbery.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can use milk or half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as rich or creamy. Heavy cream is ideal for the best texture.

Can I add more garlic?

Absolutely! If you love garlic, feel free to add an extra clove or two to the sauce.

How can I make this recipe dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of cream and nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese.

Can I serve this with vegetables?

Yes, this creamy garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or asparagus. You can even sauté them with the shrimp.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe can be prepared in advance and stored for later. Just be sure to store the sauce and shrimp separately to prevent overcooking.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Be sure to cook the shrimp just until they are pink and opaque. Overcooking shrimp can cause them to become rubbery and tough.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic shrimp recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a quick, flavorful meal. With minimal ingredients and a fast cooking time, you can easily make a dish that feels indulgent without the hassle. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or simply enjoying it on its own, it’s sure to be a hit at your table.

Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

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• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This easy creamy garlic shrimp recipe is a rich and flavorful dish ready in just 15 minutes. Perfectly seared shrimp are coated in a decadent garlic sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Whether served over pasta, rice, or enjoyed alone, this quick and indulgent meal is sure to impress!

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

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Instructions

• Season the Shrimp: Toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
• Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
• Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
• Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Add the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (optional). Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
• Combine & Serve: Return the shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce. Simmer for another 2 minutes to heat through.
• Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

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Notes

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.