Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Description of this recipe
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, delivering restaurant-quality flavors in the comfort of your own home. The dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a great centerpiece for any meal.
Why you will love this recipe
This recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. It’s speedy, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy evenings. The creamy sauce is packed with flavor, and the perfectly cooked shrimp are tender and juicy. You can easily customize the dish to suit your taste preferences, whether you prefer it spicy, cheesy, or loaded with veggies. Plus, it requires minimal cleanup, as everything is prepared in one pan.
Introduction
If you’re looking for a dish that impresses without requiring hours in the kitchen, look no further than Creamy Garlic Shrimp. This recipe is a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and special gatherings alike. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a meal that feels luxurious and satisfying. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Preparation:
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. This seasoning will enhance the shrimp’s natural flavors and add a beautiful color.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Next, stir in the chicken broth (or white wine) and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to combine. Gradually add the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Step 5: Combine & Serve
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are well coated in the creamy sauce. Let them simmer for another 2 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Step 6: Garnish & Enjoy
Serve your Creamy Garlic Shrimp over your choice of pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy this comforting dish with family and friends!
COOKING Rating:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Serving Suggestions:
This dish pairs beautifully with linguine, jasmine rice, or a fresh garden salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it with garlic bread or a side of sautéed vegetables. A glass of white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, complements the flavors perfectly.
Tips:
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving.
- If you’re looking to incorporate more vegetables, spinach or cherry tomatoes can be added to the sauce during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Keep an eye on the shrimp while cooking; they cook quickly and can become tough if overcooked.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic or cheese based on your preferences.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
10 minutes
Total Time:
15 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: 450 per serving
Protein: 30g
Sodium: 800mg
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a versatile, quick, and utterly delicious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, it’s a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
FAQ
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you need to cook them from frozen, it may take a minute longer, but they will still turn out great.
2. What can I serve this with?
This creamy garlic shrimp is amazing over pasta, rice, or even some garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. It also pairs well with a fresh green salad for a lighter option.
3. Can I use a different type of seafood?
Sure! While shrimp is the go-to for this recipe, you can try it with scallops, lobster, or even a mix of seafood. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different types of seafood have varying cooking times.
4. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! The recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to check any products like pasta or broth if you’re pairing them with the dish to keep everything safe for a gluten-free diet.
5. Can I make it dairy-free?
Definitely. You can use coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter substitute. It will still be creamy and delicious!
6. How can I make it spicier?
If you love a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes, fresh chopped chillies, or even a dash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. This will give the dish that extra kick without compromising the creamy texture.
