Creamy Garlic Shrimp – A Rich and Flavorful Seafood Dish

If you’re looking for a luxurious yet quick meal, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is a perfect choice! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s both indulgent and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion, a romantic dinner, or just a simple yet satisfying weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

The best part? It’s ready in just 20 minutes! With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this creamy garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy nights.
✔ Rich & Creamy – A decadent garlic butter cream sauce coats every shrimp.
✔ Protein-Packed – Shrimp is a lean, high-protein seafood option.
✔ Versatile – Pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
✔ Restaurant-Quality – Feels gourmet but is simple to make at home.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (for freshness)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

✔ Large Skillet or Pan – For cooking the shrimp and sauce.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Spatula – For stirring ingredients.
✔ Measuring Cups and Spoons – To ensure precise ingredient portions.
✔ Tongs – For flipping shrimp evenly.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream, then add salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and Italian seasoning. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce.
2. Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the flavors.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

1. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for extra color and freshness.
2. Serve immediately with your choice of pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

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Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Shrimp

✔ Use Fresh Shrimp – Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp provide the best texture and flavor.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so cook just until pink.
✔ Grate Fresh Parmesan – It melts better and adds superior flavor.
✔ Adjust Sauce Thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
✔ Add Lemon Juice Last – This prevents the cream from curdling.

Recipe Variations and Substitutions

• Make It Dairy-Free – Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Add More Veggies – Toss in spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.
• Make It Spicier – Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Try a Different Protein – This sauce pairs well with chicken or scallops.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheat in Skillet: Warm over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce creamy.
• Reheat in Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to prevent overcooking the shrimp.
• Avoid Freezing: Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, as they tend to separate when thawed.

Serving Suggestions

✔ With Pasta – Serve over linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti for a classic combination.
✔ With Rice – White or brown rice soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
✔ With Steamed Vegetables – Such as broccoli, asparagus, or zucchini for a balanced meal.
✔ With Garlic Bread – A great way to enjoy every bit of the sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Overcooking the Shrimp – Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
❌ Skipping the Lemon Juice – It balances the richness of the sauce beautifully.
❌ Not Using Fresh Garlic – Fresh minced garlic gives the best flavor compared to garlic powder.
❌ Using Pre-Shredded Cheese – It contains additives that prevent smooth melting.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or coconut cream for a lighter alternative.

What’s the best way to make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer a little longer or add more Parmesan cheese.

Can I make this ahead of time?

While best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead and add shrimp when reheating.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes! It’s low in carbs and works well for a keto diet when served without pasta or rice.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a rich, decadent, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, it’s a meal that feels gourmet but is surprisingly simple. Try it today and enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood dish at home!

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