Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

why make this recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a wonderful dish that brings together the rich flavors of shrimp, garlic, and creamy sauce, making it a favorite for many. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Additionally, this recipe is versatile; you can enjoy it on its own, over pasta, or with a side of rice. The combination of fresh ingredients creates a satisfying meal that is sure to impress your family or guests.

how to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients:

• Shrimp: 1 pound of large, peeled, and deveined shrimp (fresh or frozen)
• Garlic: 4-5 cloves of fresh garlic, minced (adjust based on taste)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for a rich flavor
• Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (or avocado oil for a lighter option)
• Heavy cream: 1 cup (substitute half-and-half for a lighter version)
• Parmesan cheese: ¾ cup, freshly grated for a savory finish
• Spinach: 2 cups fresh baby spinach (or kale for a heartier choice)
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
• Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (or white wine for depth)
• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Directions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp
   Begin by rinsing your shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This important step helps your shrimp achieve a nice sear when cooked. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté the Aromatics
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, sautéing for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. If you enjoy a little heat, this is the time to add some red pepper flakes.

3. Cook the Shrimp
   Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of a lovely sear! Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

4. Create the Creamy Sauce
   In the same skillet, lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Stir constantly, scraping the bottom to release any flavorful bits left from cooking the shrimp. After about 2 minutes, add the grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach. Stir until the cheese is melted and the spinach is wilted.

5. Combine and Serve
   Return the shrimp to the skillet and add the fresh lemon juice. Stir to combine, cooking for another minute to allow the flavors to meld. Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.

6. Garnish and Enjoy
   Finish by garnishing with chopped parsley or basil. Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp over pasta, rice, or simply with crusty bread to soak up that decadent sauce.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp

You can serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp over pasta like fettuccine or linguine for a delightful meal. It also pairs well with rice or quinoa for a lighter option. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. Add a fresh salad for a complete meal.

how to store Creamy Garlic Shrimp

To store Creamy Garlic Shrimp, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. If you have leftovers, it is best not to freeze them, as the cream could change texture upon thawing.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Shrimp

• Ensure your shrimp are well-dried to get that nice sear.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and lemon juice to suit your taste.
• For added flavor, you can sprinkle some grated lemon zest on top before serving.

variation

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes for more color and nutrition. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp right before serving.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Yes, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp

A quick and creamy shrimp dish with garlic and Parmesan, perfect for weeknights or special occasions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 400

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound large, peeled, and deveined shrimp fresh or frozen
• 4-5 cloves fresh garlic, minced adjust based on taste
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter for a rich flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil for a lighter option
• 1 cup heavy cream substitute half-and-half for a lighter version
• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a savory finish
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach or kale for a heartier choice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice or white wine for depth
• Chopped parsley or basil for garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.

Cooking

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add seasoned shrimp in a single layer, cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, lower heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring and scraping the bottom.
6. After 2 minutes, add grated Parmesan cheese and fresh spinach, stir until cheese is melted and spinach is wilted.
7. Return shrimp to skillet, add fresh lemon juice, and stir to combine, cooking for another minute.

Serving

1. Garnish with chopped parsley or basil, and serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

For storing, let cool, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Gently reheat before serving. Avoid freezing.