Print

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.4 from 13 reviews

This easy and delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe delivers tender shrimp in a rich, garlicky cream sauce ready in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a fancy, comforting meal with minimal effort and just one pan. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for an indulgent yet simple dinner that feels gourmet.

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, for heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss shrimp thoroughly with paprika, salt, and black pepper ensuring even coating for balanced flavor.
  2. Sear the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes, flipping each side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
  3. Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, melt butter in the same skillet, then add minced garlic and sauté about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth or white wine and simmer 2-3 minutes to allow the liquid to reduce and concentrate flavor.
  4. Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
  5. Combine & Serve: Return cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly with the creamy sauce. Simmer on low heat 2 minutes more to warm through and meld flavors.
  6. Garnish & Enjoy: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for freshness. Serve immediately alongside pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken broth with white wine for a more complex flavor.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Optional additions like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes can add exciting variations.
  • Be careful not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes to taste.