This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a restaurant-quality dish made with simple ingredients and ready in minutes. The juicy shrimp are perfectly cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor.
Whether served over pasta, paired with crusty bread, or spooned over rice, this dish brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Ideal for a cozy family dinner or an impromptu dinner party, it’s a versatile recipe you’ll want to make again and again.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Directions:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Toss in the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce the heat to low, and pour the heavy cream into the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 4
Recipe Origin and Inspiration
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a versatile dish inspired by Italian-American cuisine, combining the richness of butter and cream with bold garlic flavors. Shrimp, a popular seafood choice due to its delicate texture and mild taste, pairs perfectly with a creamy, garlicky sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. This dish reflects a balance of indulgence and simplicity, making it a go-to option for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
Tips for Success
- Choosing Shrimp: Opt for large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works well too. Just make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking.
- Even Cooking: To ensure your shrimp cooks evenly, spread them out in a single layer in the skillet. Overcrowding can result in steaming rather than searing.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer it a little longer to reduce it. Alternatively, add a small cornstarch slurry (1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water) to the sauce and stir until it thickens.
- Seasoning to Taste: The saltiness of the Parmesan cheese can vary, so taste the sauce before adding extra salt.
- Herb Variations: Fresh basil, thyme, or oregano can be substituted or added to the parsley garnish for a different herbaceous twist.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides:
- Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti for a creamy shrimp pasta.
- Rice: Serve over fluffy white rice or buttery garlic rice for a comforting meal.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans to add a fresh and healthy element.
- Bread: A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious creamy garlic sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat to prevent the shrimp from overcooking. Add a splash of cream or water to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that the sides you pair it with, such as pasta or bread, are gluten-free if needed.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a delicious low-carb meal.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy version.
- Cheesy Twist: Mix in an extra handful of shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for a richer, cheesier sauce.
- Protein Variations: Swap shrimp with scallops, chicken, or tofu for a different protein option while keeping the creamy garlic sauce.
Fun Fact
Shrimp is one of the most widely consumed types of seafood globally and is prized for its versatility and ease of cooking. In Italy, creamy seafood dishes like this one are often enjoyed during festive occasions or as part of multi-course meals.
The Story Behind Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a dish rooted in the rich tradition of combining seafood with decadent sauces. The creaminess of the sauce is balanced by the sharp, aromatic flavor of garlic, creating a dish that feels both indulgent and comforting. Popular in Italian-American cuisine, this recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients like butter, cream, and garlic can come together to create something extraordinary.
This dish is a favorite for busy weeknights because it’s quick to prepare yet fancy enough to serve on special occasions. Its versatility in pairing with pasta, rice, or vegetables makes it a staple in many households.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With a total cooking time of about 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for those who want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or low-carb options like zucchini noodles or cauliflower mash.
- Crowd-Pleaser: The creamy garlic sauce is universally loved, making this recipe a hit with both kids and adults.
- High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making this dish satisfying and nutritious.
Ingredient Insights
- Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe because they stay juicy and tender. Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp to save prep time.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a pungent and aromatic flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
- Heavy Cream: This is the base of the sauce, providing richness and a velvety texture. Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds a savory and slightly nutty flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and enhances the dish.
- Paprika: Gives a subtle smoky flavor and a hint of color to the sauce.
- Butter: Used for cooking the shrimp and sautéing the garlic, butter adds a luxurious richness to the dish.
Perfect Pairings for Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Starch-Based Sides:
- Linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti.
- Jasmine or basmati rice.
- Creamy mashed potatoes.
- Vegetable Sides:
- Steamed or roasted asparagus.
- Sautéed spinach or kale.
- Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts or broccoli.
- Bread:
- A crusty baguette or garlic bread is ideal for soaking up the sauce.
Variations to Try
- Add Veggies: Incorporate mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or spinach for extra flavor and texture.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Swap the Protein: Use scallops, lobster, or chicken for a variation on the creamy garlic sauce.
- Herb Twist: Substitute parsley with fresh basil, dill, or thyme for a new flavor profile.
Cooking Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery.
- Thicken the Sauce: If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.
- Balance the Flavors: The Parmesan is naturally salty, so add salt sparingly. Taste the sauce before seasoning further.
Health Benefits
- Protein-Packed: Shrimp is a lean source of high-quality protein.
- Rich in Vitamins: Garlic is packed with vitamins C and B6, while parsley adds vitamin K and antioxidants.
- Low-Carb Friendly: This dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great choice for keto or low-carb diets when paired with the right sides.
Fun Facts About Shrimp
- Shrimp are the most popular seafood consumed in the United States, with Americans eating an average of 4 pounds per person annually.
- They are known for their versatility in recipes, ranging from appetizers to mains and even salads.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. The rich, garlicky sauce enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness, creating a quick yet impressive dish. Versatile and easy to prepare, it pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or vegetables, making it ideal for any occasion. Enjoy this flavorful recipe and bring a touch of elegance to your meals!