When the craving for something indulgent yet satisfying strikes, there’s nothing quite like creamy garlic shrimp to hit the spot. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and elegance, pairing tender, juicy shrimp with a velvety garlic-infused sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, creamy garlic shrimp delivers every time.
As I pull together this dish, I can’t help but think of cozy evenings gathered around the table with loved ones, savoring every creamy, garlicky bite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both luxurious and comforting—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that anyone can master. Plus, with just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce is packed with flavor, complementing the shrimp beautifully.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or even roasted vegetables for a meal that suits your mood.
- Impressive: Despite its simplicity, this dish looks and tastes like something from a fine restaurant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the sauce from becoming watery. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you go. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Helpful Tips
- Choose Fresh Shrimp: If possible, use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp work too—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The red pepper flakes are optional but add a nice kick to the dish. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.
- Serve Fresh: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, as the creamy sauce can thicken as it cools.
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce may not be as thick.
- If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese with a bold flavor.
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.
Nutritional Information
Per Serving:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 24g
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
While fresh shrimp is recommended, you can use pre-cooked shrimp in a pinch. Simply add them to the sauce during the final step to heat them through, taking care not to overcook.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
What can I serve with this dish?
Creamy garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. You can also serve it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other comforting meals:
- Garlic Butter Chicken: A quick and flavorful one-pan dish.
- Creamy Tuscan Salmon: Perfect for seafood lovers.
- Shrimp Scampi Pasta: A lighter, lemony take on shrimp.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic shrimp is a dish you’ll want to make again and again. Its rich flavors, quick preparation, and versatility make it a winning choice for any occasion. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and savor the comfort of every creamy, garlicky bite!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Description
When the craving for something indulgent yet satisfying strikes, there’s nothing quite like creamy garlic shrimp to hit the spot. This dish is a celebration of simplicity and elegance, pairing tender, juicy shrimp with a velvety garlic-infused sauce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, creamy garlic shrimp delivers every time.
As I pull together this dish, I can’t help but think of cozy evenings gathered around the table with loved ones, savoring every creamy, garlicky bite. It’s the kind of recipe that feels both luxurious and comforting—a perfect blend of flavors and textures that anyone can master. Plus, with just one skillet and a handful of pantry staples, it’s an easy way to elevate your dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the sauce from becoming watery. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Step 4: Create the Creamy Base
Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring as you go. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the sauce cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring often, until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine and Garnish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce to coat. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce may not be as thick.
- If you’re not a fan of Parmesan, try using Pecorino Romano or another hard cheese with a bold flavor.
- Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.