Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is quick to make yet feels indulgent and restaurant-quality. The creamy sauce is flavorful without being heavy, and the shrimp stay tender and juicy. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with your favorite sides.

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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

Directions

1. In a bowl, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the cream simmer gently for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce. Heat through for another minute.
7. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or bread.

Servings and Timing

Serves 3-4 people.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Add chopped fresh parsley or basil for a fresh herbal note.
• Include a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
• Stir in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
• Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the sauce for extra veggies.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. If needed, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw completely before seasoning and cooking.

Can I use light cream instead of heavy cream?

Heavy cream is best for richness and thickness, but light cream can be used with a thinner sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute butter with olive oil and use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat medium to low when simmering the cream and cheese, and stir continuously.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh but can be made ahead and reheated gently.

What sides pair well with this dish?

Pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread are great accompaniments.

How do I make the shrimp tender?

Avoid overcooking; cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine before adding the cream adds depth to the sauce.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the cream sauce may separate when thawed.

Conclusion

The Creamy Garlic Shrimp Dish is a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. The tender shrimp in a velvety garlic Parmesan sauce is perfect for any occasion, whether a casual weeknight or a special dinner. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a variety of sides and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

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