If you’re hunting for a weeknight winner that’s as simple as it is sensational, Creamy Garlic Shrimp is your new best friend in the kitchen. Whip up a creamy, garlicky shrimp feast that’ll have you craving seconds in just minutes! This beginner-friendly recipe takes only about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll be at the table in a flash. Savor juicy shrimp bathed in a lush garlic-infused cream sauce with Parmesan, finished with fresh parsley and a hint of spice for a truly irresistible meal. Whether you’re looking to elevate your shrimp pasta game or simply want an easy shrimp recipe that feels gourmet, this dish checks all the boxes: it’s rich but not fussy, indulgent yet unfussy, and clocks in at around 480 calories per serving.
I remember the first time I made this recipe after a long, hectic day—my kitchen felt like a five-star bistro, and the family practically begged for more. The velvety sauce clung to each plump, pink shrimp, and every bite was a perfect balance of buttery cream, sharp Parmesan, and that warm, garlicky punch. It’s the kind of meal that turns an ordinary Tuesday night into a small celebration. Best of all, there’s no resting time required, so you can dive right in with zero delay. If you’ve ever been intimidated by seafood or creamy sauces, let this recipe be your confidence booster: it’s straightforward enough for total beginners but impressive enough to have guests convinced you’re a seasoned pro.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, working together to deliver a harmonious balance of texture and flavor. From the succulent shrimp to the silky cream sauce, here’s what you need and why each component matters:
- Large shrimp
The star of the show. When peeled and deveined, these shrimp offer a tender, meaty bite that soaks up every drop of sauce while maintaining their plump juiciness.
- Olive oil
A fruity, heart-healthy base for searing. This oil ensures the shrimp develop a light golden crust without sticking, locking in moisture and flavor.
- Unsalted butter
Adds rich, creamy depth to the sauce. By using unsalted butter, you control the seasoning, preventing the dish from becoming overly salty.
- Garlic
The aromatic powerhouse. Minced garlic infuses the dish with its signature pungent warmth, creating an irresistible backbone for the cream sauce.
- Heavy cream
Delivers that luxurious, velvety texture we all adore. It thickens beautifully as it simmers, coating each shrimp in a gorgeously smooth finish.
- Parmesan cheese
Brings nutty, umami-rich notes and further thickens the sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan melts seamlessly, creating a silky consistency.
- Salt and pepper
Essential for balancing flavors. A precise seasoning elevates both the shrimp and the sauce, ensuring each bite sings.
- Fresh parsley
A pop of verdant brightness. Chopped parsley lends freshness, cutting through the richness and adding visual appeal.
- Red pepper flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a gentle heat. A pinch awakens the palate and adds a tantalizing kick.
HOW TO MAKE CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
Let’s walk through the simple yet transformative steps that turn raw ingredients into a plate of irresistible Creamy Garlic Shrimp. Each instruction builds on the last to bring out the best flavors and textures.
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring the oil shimmers before adding anything.
2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once perfectly seared, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to rest.
3. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add unsalted butter. Once the butter has melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, taking care not to let it brown.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, using a spatula to scrape up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Add grated Parmesan cheese and stir constantly until the cheese melts fully and the sauce transforms into a smooth, silky consistency.
6. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that complements the creaminess.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them evenly in the luscious sauce.
8. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the shrimp through and allow all the flavors to meld beautifully.
9. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a burst of color and fresh herbaceous notes.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is an absolute chameleon when it comes to serving options. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta, a crusty bread dunk fest, or a fresh low-carb twist, these suggestions will help you plate your creation like a pro and take advantage of every drop of that dreamy sauce.
- Over pasta
Tumble the shrimp and creamy sauce atop a bed of al dente fettuccine, linguine, or your favorite long noodle. Toss gently so every strand is coated in garlicky goodness, then garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley.
- With crusty bread
Serve alongside thick slices of artisan baguette or ciabatta. The sturdy crumb soaks up the sauce perfectly, letting you savor every saucy nook and cranny.
- On a bed of rice or cauliflower rice
For a gluten-free or lower-carb option, spoon the shrimp over steaming white or brown rice—or even cauliflower rice for a veggie-packed alternative. The grains act as the perfect sponge for the creamy sauce.
- As a filling for tacos or wraps
For a fun fusion twist, load the shrimp into warm tortillas or wraps. Add shredded lettuce, a squeeze of lime, and a sprinkle of cheese for handheld, flavor-packed tacos that bring a new dimension to this classic dish.
HOW TO STORE CREAMY GARLIC SHRIMP
If you have leftovers (or if you’re meal-prepping for a busy week), storing Creamy Garlic Shrimp properly ensures you maintain its flavor and texture. Here are some tried-and-true tips to keep this dish tasting as fresh as the day you made it:
- Refrigeration
Allow the shrimp to cool slightly, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream sauce from splitting.
- Freezing
For longer storage, cool completely and portion into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a small gap for expansion. Freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently to preserve the sauce’s creaminess.
- Gentle reheating
Whether refrigerated or thawed from frozen, warm the shrimp over low to medium heat. Add a splash of cream, milk, or broth if the sauce appears too thick, stirring until it returns to a smooth consistency.
- Avoid prolonged storage
Because this recipe relies on a dairy-based sauce, it’s best enjoyed fresh or within the recommended storage windows. Extended storage can cause the cream to separate and the shrimp to become rubbery.
CONCLUSION
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is proof that restaurant-quality meals don’t require fancy techniques or hours in the kitchen. From the first sizzle of shrimp in the skillet to the final sprinkle of parsley, every step is designed for simplicity and maximum flavor. With just a handful of accessible ingredients and straightforward cooking methods, you’ll have a dish that feels indulgent, balanced, and elegant in no time. Remember, this recipe is perfect for beginners, enjoys a quick 10-minute prep, and only needs 15 minutes on the stove—no resting time required. As a lunch or dinner option, it’s versatile enough to adapt to pasta, bread, rice, or even wraps, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later use; you’ll find a handy FAQ below to troubleshoot any questions. If you give this Creamy Garlic Shrimp a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out—drop a comment, share your favorite tweaks, or let me know if you need any cooking tips. Your feedback helps me refine recipes and inspires other home cooks to dive into this garlicky, Parmesan-splashed delight. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Description
Savor juicy shrimp bathed in a lush garlic-infused cream sauce with Parmesan, finished with fresh parsley and a hint of spice for a truly irresistible meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer while scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
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Add Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth.
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Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them evenly in the creamy sauce.
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Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the shrimp through and allow flavors to meld.
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Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving.
Note
- This dish is perfect served over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute half and half or milk for the heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adding a splash of white wine before the cream can enhance the sauce's flavor profile.
