Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Creamy garlic shrimp is the ultimate answer for those nights when you crave something restaurant-worthy but barely have time to cook. In just fifteen minutes, a handful of ingredients transform into plump shrimp bathed in an irresistibly rich and garlicky cream sauce. It is simple enough for a rushed weeknight yet decadent enough to impress guests or treat yourself after a long day.

I first whipped this up on a busy Wednesday when I almost ordered takeout again but decided to raid my fridge instead. Now I keep shrimp in my freezer just for nights like those when I want something comforting fast.

Ingredients

• Large shrimp: peeled and deveined choose ones that are plump and fresh or buy frozen and thaw fully before cooking
• Olive oil: for searing and flavor opt for extra virgin if possible
• Paprika: adds subtle warmth and beautiful color use sweet paprika for mild flavor
• Black pepper: freshly ground if you can for vibrant lift
• Salt: brings balance to all the flavors sea salt works especially well
• Butter: for the silkiness unsalted lets you control seasoning
• Garlic: minced or pureed fresh garlic gives bold punch
• Heavy cream or half and half: makes the sauce luscious choose well chilled cream for best results
• Chicken broth or dry white wine: provides depth and brightness go for low sodium broth or a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese: for grating instead of pre-shredded for the smoothest melt and true flavor
• Italian seasoning: brings herbal notes select a fresh blend for maximum aroma
• Red pepper flakes: for gentle heat totally optional
• Fresh parsley: chopped at serving for color and freshness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Season the Shrimp:

In a medium bowl combine shrimp with paprika black pepper and salt Mix thoroughly to coat each shrimp and let this mixture sit while you prep the next step as this lets the seasoning absorb

Sear the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high until shimmering Add shrimp in a single layer Sear two to three minutes per side turning once so each side gets a hint of golden color Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside so they stay tender

Make the Creamy Sauce:

Lower heat to medium Add butter to the same skillet and let it melt completely Scatter in chopped or minced garlic Stir for about one minute until the kitchen is filled with garlic aroma

Deglaze and Reduce:

Pour in chicken broth or a splash of white wine Scrape the bottom as you stir to release tasty bits Let simmer two to three minutes until slightly reduced This step deepens flavor and builds a lush base

Add Cream and Cheese:

Pour in heavy cream and stir gently Add parmesan and Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes if you like Watch the sauce carefully and simmer three to four minutes until it thickens and coats the back of a spoon

Combine and Warm:

Return cooked shrimp and any juices to the skillet Stir to coat each piece in sauce Let warm for another two minutes on low so flavors meld and shrimp stay tender

Garnish and Serve:

Turn off heat Sprinkle chopped parsley on top Serve immediately over pasta with rice or with warm bread on the side for soaking up the sauce

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I adore the way garlic and cream come together in this dish Sometimes my daughter helps sprinkle the parsley at the end and that is her task she is most proud of Shrimp night has become a mini tradition at our house

Storage Tips

Creamy garlic shrimp is best eaten fresh but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop adding a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life Avoid microwaving for long periods as shrimp can turn rubbery

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have heavy cream half and half works or even a mix of milk and a spoonful of cream cheese Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth Parmesan can be swapped with pecorino or a blend of hard Italian cheese For extra kick toss in baby spinach cherry tomatoes or a handful of chopped bell peppers

Serving Suggestions

Serve over cooked pasta linguine or spaghetti is classic Steamed rice or creamy mashed potatoes make cozy bases For a lighter meal spoon shrimp and sauce over sautéed zucchini noodles or steamed asparagus Crusty bread is perfect for mopping up any extra sauce

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Cultural and Historical Context

Creamy garlic shrimp is a modern bistro classic found in both Italian and American kitchens The hallmark is the harmony between rich dairy and briny shrimp In coastal communities where seafood is abundant this technique—quick cooking in a savory sauce—is traditional and always crowd pleasing Now the dish is beloved worldwide for its versatility and comforting flavor

Recipe FAQs

→ How do you prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp at medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque to avoid toughness.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream in the sauce?

Half-and-half or a mix of milk and butter can be used for a lighter sauce with a similar creamy texture.

→ Can this dish be made spicier?

Yes, increasing the red pepper flakes or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper will add extra heat without overpowering the flavors.

→ What side dishes pair well with creamy garlic shrimp?

Rice, pasta, or crusty bread all complement the creamy sauce nicely, helping to soak up the flavorful juices.

→ Is one pan sufficient for the entire cooking process?

Yes, shrimp are seared first, then the sauce is prepared in the same skillet, making cleanup easy and efficient.