Name: Delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp in Just 15 Minutes!
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Large Shrimp (Peeled and deveined); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Can substitute with butter); 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter; 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh and minced); 1 cup Heavy Cream (Can opt for half-and-half); 1/2 cup Chicken Broth or White Wine (Use broth for non-alcoholic); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated); 1 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (Customize with your choice herbs); 1 teaspoon Paprika (Cayenne for spicier alternative); to taste Black Pepper (Essential for seasoning); to taste Salt (Sea salt recommended); to taste Red Pepper Flakes (Optional for some heat); 1 tablespoon Fresh Parsley (Chopped)

As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of sizzling garlic enveloped me like a warm hug, and I knew I was about to create a quick masterpiece. This 15-Minute Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp is my go-to for those busy evenings when I crave comfort without all the hassle. With tender shrimp beautifully coated in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce, this dish not only comes together in just 15 minutes but also makes cleanup a breeze—talk about a weeknight win! The best part? You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices, making it a versatile delight for everyone at the table. Ready to transform your busy nights into gourmet experiences? Let’s dive in!

Why is this shrimp recipe a must-try?

Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a weeknight meal with minimal fuss.

Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic and creamy sauce creates a luxurious taste that elevates humble shrimp into a gourmet experience.

Versatility: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or spinach, or even swap shrimp for chicken for a hearty twist.

Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy goodness, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at the dinner table, offering comfort food vibes reminiscent of restaurant dining.

Quick Cleanup: One pan is all it takes! Enjoy a delicious meal without the aftermath of extensive cleanup. For a full meal, consider pairing this with Cheesy Garlic Bread to soak up that luscious sauce!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients

• Dive into this rich and flavorful dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Shrimp

Large Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined, as they offer the best texture for this creamy garlic shrimp dish.

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – A great cooking fat; substitute with butter for a richer flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Adds depth to the sauce; additional olive oil can be used if desired.
Garlic – Fresh and minced, this is the star of the show, infusing the dish with delicious aroma.
Heavy Cream – The foundation of the creamy sauce; opt for half-and-half for a lighter version.
Chicken Broth or White Wine – Adds an incredible layer of flavor; use broth for a non-alcoholic twist.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated is best for a richer, creamy texture.
Italian Seasoning – For aromatic herbal notes; customize with your choice herbs, like oregano or basil.
Paprika – Provides a hint of spice and vibrant color; cayenne serves as a spicier alternative.
Black Pepper – Essential for seasoning; adjust according to your taste.
Salt – Enhances overall flavor; sea salt is highly recommended.
Red Pepper Flakes – Optional for some heat; leave out if you prefer milder flavor.

For Garnish

Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle for an inviting touch of color and freshness!

Feel free to personalize your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with additional vegetables or spices to make it truly your own!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Step 1: Season Shrimp
In a medium bowl, toss the uncooked large shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper until they’re evenly coated. This seasoning step is essential for infusing the shrimp with flavor. Set aside for about 5 minutes to allow the spices to meld, giving the shrimp a delightful base for the creamy garlic shrimp dish.

Step 2: Sear Shrimp
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate, allowing the flavors to rest as you prepare the sauce.

Step 3: Make Sauce
Lower the heat to medium, then add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden. This step is crucial as it builds the aromatic foundation for your creamy garlic shrimp sauce.

Step 4: Add Liquids
Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to incorporate those delicious flavors. Let this mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly. Then, gently stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, allowing the elements to blend beautifully as you prepare for the next step.

Step 5: Incorporate Cheese
Add 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese along with 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning to the simmering sauce. Stir continuously for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt and the sauce to thicken. This luxurious creamy mixture will elevate your creamy garlic shrimp, ensuring that each bite is silky and rich.

Step 6: Combine Shrimp
Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the creamy sauce. Heat through for about 2 minutes until the shrimp are fully warmed and tender. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add a pop of color and freshness. Your creamy garlic shrimp dish is now ready to be enjoyed!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic Shrimp are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can season and marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance by keeping them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the creamy sauce (excluding the cheese) and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, reheat the sauce gently on the stove, then add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese before returning the shrimp to the pan to heat through for about 2 minutes. With these make-ahead tips, dinner becomes a quick, stress-free delight while still being just as delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Fridge: Store leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream to restore its luscious consistency.

Freezer: To freeze, place the shrimp in a freezer-safe container and enjoy them within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Airtight Guidance: Ensure the dish is sealed properly to prevent freezer burn, which can affect the texture of your creamy garlic shrimp.

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor in your creamy garlic shrimp sauce.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of chicken broth to reach your desired creaminess.
Customize: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for extra color and nutrition.
Prep Ahead: Season your shrimp and chop your garlic and herbs before starting to cook. This streamlines the cooking process and keeps it under 15 minutes.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore these creative variations to make your creamy garlic shrimp truly your own!

Protein Swap: Try chicken instead of shrimp for a comforting twist; simply adjust cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for vibrant colors and added nutrition. The veggies will punctuate the dish nicely!
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This adds a fiery zing to the creamy sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of traditional pasta for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Dairy-Free: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and omit the cheese for a dairy-free alternative without sacrificing richness.
Herb Swap: Customize the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or thyme instead of Italian seasoning, adding a unique twist.
Citrus Zing: A squeeze of lemon juice or lime zest can brighten the flavors, lending an extra freshness that complements shrimp beautifully.

For a delightful meal, pair your creamy garlic shrimp with Cheesy Garlic Bread to soak up that luscious sauce! You could also enjoy it alongside some Garlic Roasted Chicken for a flavorful spread.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Transform your quick weeknight meal into a complete experience with these delightful pairings!

Creamy Risotto: The smooth texture and rich flavor of risotto amplify the dish’s gourmet feel, making each bite a luxurious experience.
Garlic Bread: Freshly baked, buttery garlic bread is perfect for sopping up that decadent creamy sauce, ensuring no flavor goes to waste.
Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus brings a crisp contrast to the rich shrimp, adding vibrant color and nutrients to your plate.
Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds a refreshing crunch and zesty dressing that balances the richness of the creamy garlic shrimp beautifully.
White Wine: A chilled glass of crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the flavors, with its citrus notes complementing the dish’s creaminess and garlic.
Lemon Zest: Add a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest to elevate the whole meal, creating a bright finish that beautifully juxtaposes the rich sauce.

Each of these pairings not only harmonizes with the creamy garlic shrimp but also evokes a sense of elegant dining right at home!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp to ensure tenderness and ease of cooking. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, they often have a more robust flavor. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage.

How long can I store leftover creamy garlic shrimp?
You can store leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream to the skillet to restore that luscious consistency. Just heat gently over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Can I freeze creamy garlic shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze creamy garlic shrimp! For best results, place the cooled dish in a freezer-safe container and consume it within 1 month. Be sure to thaw the shrimp overnight in the fridge before reheating. When reheating, use a skillet over medium-low heat and stir occasionally to ensure the shrimp heat through evenly.

How can I make the shrimp sauce spicier?
If you want to add a kick to your creamy garlic shrimp, consider using more red pepper flakes or substituting the paprika for cayenne pepper. You can also add sautéed jalapeños or hot sauce to the sauce while it simmers, giving it that extra heat you crave!

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce thickens more than you’d like, simply add a splash of chicken broth or even a little extra cream while stirring over low heat to reach your desired consistency. This will keep it creamy and delicious without sacrificing flavor.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
For those with dietary restrictions, this creamy garlic shrimp recipe can easily accommodate different needs. To make it gluten-free, ensure your chicken broth and seasonings are gluten-free. Additionally, for a lighter version, try using half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or you can add more veggies to bulk it up without extra calories. Always check for allergies, especially with shellfish.