Creamy garlic shrimp is a dish that masterfully combines simplicity and elegance. Its velvety, flavorful sauce and tender, juicy shrimp create a meal that is equally suitable for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With just a handful of pantry staples like butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan, this dish delivers rich, indulgent flavors that feel restaurant-worthy but are surprisingly easy to recreate at home. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a satisfying experience that delights every palate.
Ingredients
The foundation of this dish lies in the careful selection of fresh, quality ingredients. Large shrimp, peeled and deveined, provide a tender, succulent base for the rich garlic sauce. Unsalted butter and minced garlic create an aromatic start to the dish, while heavy cream and chicken broth lend a luscious, smooth consistency to the sauce. Parmesan cheese adds a savory depth, while Italian seasoning brings a hint of herbal warmth. A touch of salt and pepper rounds out the flavors, and fresh parsley adds a vibrant pop of color. Lemon wedges are the perfect garnish, offering a bright and zesty contrast to the creamy sauce.
Instructions
To begin, melt unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic, taking care to sauté it gently for one to two minutes until its aroma fills the kitchen. Avoid letting the garlic brown, as this can introduce a bitter note to the dish.
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Cook the shrimp for about two to three minutes on each side, or until they turn a vibrant pink and become opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside while you prepare the sauce.
Using the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, stirring and scraping the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful browned bits left behind by the shrimp. Add the heavy cream and Italian seasoning, stirring well to combine. Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese has melted completely and the sauce achieves a smooth, creamy consistency. Taste the sauce and season with salt and pepper as needed, adjusting to suit your preference.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy garlic sauce to coat them thoroughly. Let the shrimp simmer in the sauce for an additional one to two minutes, just long enough to heat through and absorb the flavors.
Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley, which adds both color and a touch of freshness. Serve immediately, accompanied by lemon wedges for a burst of acidity that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce.
Tips
For the best results, use fresh shrimp whenever possible, as their natural sweetness enhances the dish. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet. When preparing the sauce, grate the Parmesan cheese yourself rather than using pre-grated varieties; this ensures the cheese melts smoothly into the sauce without becoming grainy. To enhance the dish’s flavor further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle heat or a splash of white wine while deglazing the skillet.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy garlic shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, serve it over al dente pasta or fluffy white rice, allowing the sauce to soak into every bite. Alternatively, pair it with crusty artisan bread to mop up the creamy sauce. A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can cause the shrimp to overcook and become rubbery.
FAQ
Many people wonder if they can substitute ingredients in this recipe. While heavy cream creates the signature richness of the dish, half-and-half can be used for a lighter option, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. If you prefer a dairy-free version, coconut milk can serve as an alternative, though it will alter the flavor profile slightly. Parmesan cheese can be replaced with Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier taste. For those who prefer an extra garlicky kick, roasted garlic can be used in place of fresh minced garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Conclusion
Creamy garlic shrimp is a dish that combines the best of simplicity and indulgence. The rich, velvety sauce, perfectly cooked shrimp, and harmonious flavors make it a standout recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike. Whether served as a main course or an elegant appetizer, this dish is a testament to how a few simple ingredients can come together to create something truly spectacular. Enjoy the comfort and sophistication of creamy garlic shrimp at your next meal—you won’t be disappointed!
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🍤✨ Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Description
Succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce with Parmesan and herbs. Perfect with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for a comforting meal!
Ingredients
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
1️⃣ Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2️⃣ Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3️⃣ Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth, scraping up browned bits, then stir in heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer.
4️⃣ Lower the heat and mix in Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce is smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
5️⃣ Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
6️⃣ Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges. Enjoy!