Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a quick and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor to the table in just 15 minutes. I love making this recipe on busy weeknights when I want something luxurious without spending too much time in the kitchen. The rich, garlicky cream sauce coats each tender shrimp perfectly, making every bite indulgent and comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this dish because it's fast, flavorful, and incredibly creamy without being heavy. The garlic sauce pairs perfectly with shrimp, and it goes well with pasta, rice, or even a piece of crusty bread. Whether I’m cooking for myself or trying to impress guests, this recipe always delivers.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
- Unsalted butter
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Directions
- I start by seasoning the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, I heat olive oil and cook the shrimp in a single layer for 2 to 3 minutes per side, just until they’re pink and opaque. Then I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
- In the same pan, I reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. I add the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
- I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes so it reduces a bit.
- Then I stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. I let the sauce simmer for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
- I return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stir everything together to coat the shrimp, and let it all cook for another minute or two.
- To finish, I sprinkle on some fresh parsley and serve it right away, sometimes with a wedge of lemon on the side for a bright touch.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 15 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I like to add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes to the skillet for extra color and flavor. If I want a bit of heat, I add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic. For a more filling meal, I serve it over pasta or rice, and I’ve even used zucchini noodles when I’m in the mood for something lighter.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, I do it gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the sauce from separating. A splash of cream or broth helps bring it back to the right consistency. I try not to reheat it in the microwave, since shrimp can get rubbery.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, I often use frozen shrimp. I just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking so they sear properly.
What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?
I usually serve it with pasta, rice, or toasted bread. It also pairs well with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
Can I make this dairy-free?
To make it dairy-free, I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, it’s not spicy on its own. But if I want a kick, I add red pepper flakes or a bit of cayenne when cooking the garlic.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
I prefer raw shrimp for the best flavor and texture, but if I only have pre-cooked shrimp, I add them at the very end just to heat through. Cooking them too long can make them tough.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is one of those meals I keep coming back to—it’s fast, easy, and always feels a little special. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together, it’s a go-to recipe that never disappoints.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a rich, indulgent dish featuring tender shrimp coated in a velvety garlic cream sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for weeknights or elegant dinners, and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅓ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium, melt butter in the same pan, and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring until thickened.
- Return shrimp to the pan, coat with sauce, and cook for 1–2 more minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- Add baby spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and color.
- Red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper add a spicy kick.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
- Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan for a dairy-free version.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
