Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp With Parmesan
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound shrimp (tails on or off); 1/4 teaspoon salt, to taste; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, to taste; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 1/2 cups reduced-fat cream; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

I whipped together this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Parmesan in under 10 minutes. Tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic-parmesan sauce makes for a quick, elegant meal I adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how effortlessly gourmet this dish feels—yet it’s super simple. The creamy sauce is rich without being heavy, and the garlic brings just the right depth of flavor. It’s low-carb, versatile, and perfect for busy nights or when I’m craving comfort with flair.

Ingredients

(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound shrimp (tails on or off)
¼ teaspoon salt, to taste
¼ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup chicken broth
1 ½ cups reduced-fat cream
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. I season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then sear for 1–2 minutes on each side until just pink. I remove them and set aside.
In the same skillet, I melt the butter and sauté the garlic until it becomes fragrant, about 30 seconds.
I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer until reduced by half, scraping up any flavorful bits.
I reduce the heat and stir in the cream, letting it simmer gently. I adjust seasoning if needed.
I add the Parmesan and stir until the sauce slightly thickens.
I return the shrimp to the skillet, gently coat them in the sauce, sprinkle parsley on top, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes use heavy cream or half-and-half instead of reduced-fat cream for extra richness.
I like to add red pepper flakes for a little kick or a squeeze of lemon juice for a brighter flavor.
Occasionally, I stir in spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a twist.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat. This keeps the sauce smooth and the shrimp tender.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

I look for a pink color and firm texture. It usually takes 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can get rubbery.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes. I use olive oil instead of butter and replace cream with coconut cream. The taste changes slightly, but it stays delicious.

What can I serve this dish with?

I often serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed cauliflower. It also pairs well with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. I just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. That way, they sear properly and don’t water down the sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

I usually prepare the sauce ahead and cook the shrimp just before serving. This keeps the shrimp from getting overcooked or tough.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic shrimp is one of those recipes I always come back to when I need something quick, comforting, and impressive. It’s flexible, fast, and packed with flavor. Whether I serve it on a busy weeknight or for a special occasion, it never fails to satisfy.