If you’re craving something that feels luxurious but doesn’t demand hours in the kitchen, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins) is an absolute game changer. Imagine succulent shrimp swimming in a velvety garlic cream sauce bursting with Parmesan and just the right kick of spice. This dish brings together the best of simplicity and indulgence, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressing your guests without breaking a sweat. It’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary evening into a special occasion with very little fuss, proving that good food can be quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What’s wonderful about this recipe is how straightforward the ingredient list is — every item plays a key role in building flavor and texture without complicating your prep. From the juicy shrimp to the creamy Parmesan sauce, each ingredient is essential to achieve that perfect balance that makes this dish so irresistible.
- Shrimp (1 lb large, peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, shrimp cooks quickly and soaks up the creamy garlic flavors beautifully.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Adds a subtle fruity note and helps in searing the shrimp perfectly.
- Paprika (1 tsp): Brings warmth and a subtle smoky depth to the shrimp seasoning.
- Black pepper (1/2 tsp): Adds mild heat that complements the creamy sauce.
- Salt (1/2 tsp plus extra to taste): Enhances all the flavors and balances the dish.
- Unsalted butter (2 tbsp): Richens the sauce and helps the garlic soften without burning.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced or pureed): The fragrant backbone of the recipe that infuses every bite.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luxurious, silky sauce that wraps the shrimp in comforting richness.
- Chicken broth or white wine (1/2 cup): Adds acidity and depth to the sauce while helping it reduce into a thicker texture.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup freshly grated): Melts into the sauce, lending nuttiness and umami.
- Italian seasoning (1 tsp): A blend of herbs that brightens the cream sauce with familiar Mediterranean notes.
- Red pepper flakes (1/4 tsp, optional): Sneaks in a gentle heat for those who like a touch of spice.
- Fresh parsley (for garnish): Adds a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins)
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with paprika, salt, and black pepper. This simple seasoning kickstarts the flavor profile, ensuring every bite is vibrant and well-balanced. Take a minute to coat them thoroughly—this sets the foundation for the dish’s bold taste.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, flipping until they turn pink and just opaque. The goal here is a nice sear that locks in juices while giving a slight caramelized edge. Remove the shrimp and set them aside—don’t worry, they’ll get even better when reunited with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet, using those delicious browned bits left behind for extra flavor. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about a minute—this is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing. Pour in chicken broth or white wine and let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly and intensifying the taste.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Next, pour in the heavy cream and give everything a good stir. Sprinkle in fresh Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and optional red pepper flakes. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens into a luscious coat that clings beautifully to the shrimp.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy mixture, allowing them to soak up all those lovely flavors. Let everything simmer together on low heat for another 2 minutes to meld the components and warm the shrimp through perfectly.
Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy
Just before serving, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top. It adds a fresh, vibrant touch that lifts the dish visually and flavor-wise. Now, dig in—this is the kind of meal you’ll want to savor every creamy, garlicky bite of.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins)
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic and brings a lovely herbal brightness. If you want to mix things up, try a little lemon zest or even some finely chopped chives for a subtle oniony pop. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can add sheen and richness too.
Side Dishes
This creamy garlic shrimp dish loves company. Serve it over warm, buttery pasta to catch every bit of sauce, or nestle it atop fluffy white rice to soak up those delectable flavors. Crusty bread also works wonders for mopping up the cream. For lighter fare, steamed vegetables or a crisp salad provide refreshing balance.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve the shrimp inside toasted baguette slices for a fancy appetizer. Or spoon it over creamy polenta for a cozy, comforting plate. You can even toss in some sautéed spinach or bell peppers right into the sauce to add color and nutrition without extra effort. This recipe is a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though rare with this one!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp will stay succulent, and the sauce will thicken up nicely, ready to be reheated gently.
Freezing
Freezing creamy garlic shrimp is possible but not ideal as the texture of shrimp can change slightly. If you choose to freeze, place the cooked shrimp and sauce in a freezer-safe container and use within one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating carefully to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring gently to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help restore the sauce’s silky texture. Microwaving works too, but low power and short bursts are best to maintain tenderness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they sear nicely and don’t release too much water in the pan.
What if I don’t have heavy cream on hand?
You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce; it won’t be quite as rich but still delicious. For dairy-free options, coconut cream can work, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The recipe is mildly spiced with just a hint of heat from red pepper flakes, which are optional. Feel free to skip them or add more depending on your taste!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can easily swap the shrimp for mushrooms or firm tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creamy garlic sauce remains a fantastic base full of flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins) reheats well and can be paired with pre-cooked grains or veggies for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially one you can whip up in just 15 minutes. Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins) not only delivers on taste and texture but also makes you feel like a kitchen pro with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this dish, it’ll become a go-to favorite for those busy nights when you want incredible flavors without the hassle. So why wait? Grab those shrimp and get cooking—you won’t regret it!
PrintCreamy Garlic Shrimp (15 mins)
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and easy dinner solution perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious, gourmet meal without the fuss. Tender shrimp are seared and then simmered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce infused with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasonings. Ready in just 15 minutes, this comforting dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, making it a versatile and impressive meal.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
Sauce
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced or pureed)
- 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
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper until well coated to build the base flavor.
- Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes, flipping sides until they turn opaque and are cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth or white wine and simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate flavors.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Stir in heavy cream thoroughly. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Combine & Serve: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet and coat them well with the creamy sauce. Simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- Adding vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes can enhance the dish’s flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a milder sauce, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to keep them tender and juicy.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and best melting quality.