Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Shrimp  Recipe

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something indulgent but don’t have a lot of time. The shrimp cooks quickly and absorbs the creamy garlic sauce, making every bite rich and satisfying. The combination of garlic, butter, and heavy cream creates a velvety sauce that coats the shrimp perfectly. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means minimal cleanup, making it both easy and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice (fresh or bottled)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup chicken broth (or white wine)

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

2. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the lemon juice and red pepper flakes, if using, and stir to combine.

3. Add the Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or white wine) and stir. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly, about 2-3 minutes.

4. Finish the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Continue stirring until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

5. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce until fully coated and heated through.

6. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Enjoy over pasta, rice, or with a side of garlic bread.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4 servings

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: For extra flavor and nutrition, add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the skillet while cooking the garlic.

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a small diced jalapeño for an extra kick.

• Lemon Butter Shrimp: For a lighter version, use a combination of butter and olive oil and replace some of the cream with lemon juice for a fresher taste.

• Shrimp and Pasta: Serve the creamy shrimp over your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or linguine) for a hearty meal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Can I use a different kind of cheese instead of Parmesan?

While Parmesan adds a nice salty and nutty flavor, you can substitute with other cheeses like Asiago or Pecorino Romano for a different taste.

Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. The sauce won’t be as thick and creamy, but it will still be delicious.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to a day. Just reheat it before adding the shrimp.

What should I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?

You can serve it with pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. It also pairs wonderfully with garlic bread or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I use another protein instead of shrimp?

Yes, you can use chicken breast or scallops as a substitute for shrimp. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the protein is cooked through.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape as they cook.

Can I freeze creamy garlic shrimp?

It’s best to eat the creamy garlic shrimp fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in the refrigerator for 1-2 days. Freezing the dish may affect the texture of the shrimp and the sauce.

Can I add more garlic?

Yes, if you love garlic, feel free to increase the amount. Adding extra minced garlic will enhance the flavor and aroma.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, this recipe is low-carb and keto-friendly, especially if you skip the pasta or serve it with cauliflower rice instead.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. With its rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, this dish will become a favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy it on its own or paired with your favorite side, and savor the bold, garlicky flavors!