If you’ve ever dreamed of turning your weeknight routine into something a little more special, this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp is exactly the kind of recipe that can spice up even the busiest day. Juicy shrimp bathe in a buttery garlic cream sauce, spiced just right with paprika and Italian herbs, creating a dish that feels indulgent but comes together in under 20 minutes. The silky sauce clings to each tender bite of shrimp, making it perfect atop a bed of steaming pasta or fluffy rice. With a beginner-friendly approach and just a handful of everyday pantry staples, this recipe gives you a restaurant-style dinner at home without any of the fuss.
Beyond its mouthwatering flavor, this recipe is simplicity itself. You’ll spend about 10 minutes on prep, from trimming the shrimp to mincing garlic, then just 20 minutes cooking before you’re digging in. At around 415 calories per serving, it’s balanced for an evening indulgence that won’t derail your week. Whether you’re feeding hungry teens, entertaining friends, or treating yourself to a cozy solo feast, this dinner feels rich and comforting without complicated steps. Sit back with a crisp green salad or pour yourself a chilled glass of white wine, and enjoy a dish that proves you don’t need hours to create something truly memorable.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN EASY CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
Every ingredient in this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp plays a starring role in delivering that irresistible flavor and silky texture. From the succulent shrimp to the vibrant finish of fresh herbs, each component works together to create a seamless dinner experience.
- Large shrimp
Succulent and slightly sweet, perfectly peeled and deveined shrimp are the heart of this recipe. They cook quickly and absorb the flavors of garlic and creamy sauce, offering tender, juicy bites in every forkful.
- Unsalted butter
Provides a rich and silky base for sautéing, allowing the garlic to gently brown without overwhelming saltiness. It lends a luxurious mouthfeel and caramelized notes to the sauce.
- Garlic
Fresh minced garlic infuses the dish with an aromatic punch, adding depth and a subtle heat. Sautéing it until golden enhances its nutty sweetness without bitterness.
- Heavy cream
Brings an indulgent, velvety texture that transforms the sauce into a luscious coating. It balances the acidity of the broth and carries spices evenly across each shrimp.
- Chicken broth
Adds savory dimension and thins the sauce just enough to create a smooth consistency. It helps deglaze the pan and builds layers of flavor in minimal time.
- Paprika
Imparts a smoky warmth and vibrant color, enhancing the visual appeal. Its mild spice complements the richness of the sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
- Italian seasoning
A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme brings an earthy, aromatic quality that harmonizes with garlic and cream for a classic flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the shrimp and sauce, ensuring the dish is perfectly balanced and seasoned to taste.
- Fresh parsley
Bright green and herbaceous, chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, slightly peppery bite as a final garnish.
- Cooked pasta or rice
Acts as the ideal vehicle for soaking up every last drop of creamy garlic sauce, turning this shrimp entrée into a satisfying, complete meal.
HOW TO MAKE EASY CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
Let’s dive into the simple yet impactful steps that transform these ingredients into a flavorful, creamy seafood delight. Follow this step-by-step guide to achieve a silky sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp every time.
1. Prepare your ingredients by ensuring the shrimp are fully peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic cloves finely so they’ll release maximum flavor quickly. Having everything measured and ready speeds up the cooking process.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to foam and bubble gently, which indicates the water content is evaporating and the butter is ready to carry the garlic without burning.
3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly until it becomes fragrant and turns a light golden brown. Watch closely to avoid any scorching that can introduce bitterness.
4. Once the garlic has just enough color, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on one side until the edges curl and they begin to turn pink. Flip and cook the other side until opaque. Remove the shrimp and place them on a plate to rest.
5. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it up to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble lightly for about 3 minutes so the pan deglazes and those golden bits lift into the liquid.
6. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Blend thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color, creating the foundation of your luscious sauce.
7. Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir continuously for about 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the spices to infuse fully.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss them in the cream sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes so every piece is heated through and coated in that velvety goodness.
9. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve immediately over warm pasta or rice for a full, satisfying meal.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR EASY CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
When it comes to serving this dish, presentation and complementary sides can elevate the whole experience. From simple garnishes to pairing ideas, small touches can make your Creamy Garlic Shrimp feel like a special treat at home.
- Serve over a bed of al dente pasta, such as linguine or fettuccine, so each strand clings to the creamy sauce. Toss the pasta briefly in the pan before plating for maximum coverage.
- Pair with a light green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The tangy brightness cuts through the richness of the sauce, providing a refreshing contrast and extra crunch.
- Garnish with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of zest from half a lemon. This adds a fresh, citrusy aroma that wakes up the palate and enhances the garlic flavors.
- Present alongside crusty bread or garlic toast to mop up every last drop. The crisp, buttery slices offer a satisfying texture and are perfect for soaking up residual sauce.
HOW TO STORE EASY CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
Proper storage will help you enjoy delicious leftovers without sacrificing texture or taste. Whether you’re planning to reheat later in the week or sending this to-go, these methods preserve the flavor and creaminess of the dish.
- Refrigeration: Transfer cooled shrimp and sauce to an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Store for up to 2 days in the coldest part of your fridge. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking.
- Freezing: While cream-based dishes can separate when frozen, you can reserve the shrimp and sauce separately. Freeze shrimp in one container and sauce in another for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly, whisking the sauce to recombine.
- Portioning: Divide the meal into single-serving containers before refrigerating or freezing. This prevents repeated temperature fluctuations and ensures even reheating without drying out the shrimp.
- Vacuum sealing: For longer-term storage without freezer burn, vacuum-seal your containers before placing them in the freezer. This keeps the cream sauce fresh and prevents ice crystals from forming on the shrimp.
CONCLUSION
Bringing together tender, juicy shrimp and a creamy garlic-infused sauce in under 20 minutes feels like a culinary superpower. From the moment you melt butter in the skillet to that final toss of parsley, this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe transforms simple ingredients into a rich, restaurant-style meal at home. Its beginner-friendly approach means that even if you’re new to cooking seafood, you’ll find success—and plenty of delicious leftovers to enjoy.
Feel free to print and save this article for a quick reference whenever you need a stress-free dinner idea. You can also find a FAQ below to address any questions about substitutions, reheating tips, or ingredient swaps. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out—drop your comments, questions, or any feedback you have. Happy cooking, and here’s to many more cozy meals and flavorful adventures in your kitchen!
Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Description
Juicy shrimp bathe in a buttery garlic cream sauce, spiced with paprika and Italian herbs. Ready in minutes and perfect atop pasta or rice for a cozy, restaurant-style meal at home.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Begin by preparing your ingredients. Make sure the shrimp are peeled and deveined, and the garlic is minced finely.
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In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow it to melt completely and become bubbly.
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Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté it for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until it becomes fragrant and starts to turn golden brown. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
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Once the garlic is ready, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
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In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.
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Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until fully combined.
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Add the paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to the cream mixture. Stir continuously until the sauce is heated through and thickened slightly, about 3 to 5 minutes.
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Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the shrimp are well-coated and heated through.
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Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
Note
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken or even tofu for a different protein option.
- For an extra kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce according to your spice preference.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
