Creamy Garlic Shrimp

 

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is packed with robust garlic flavor and a rich creamy texture that makes each bite feel indulgent. The tang of lemon juice adds brightness, while the Parmesan cheese brings depth to the sauce. Whether served over pasta, rice, or even on its own, it’s the perfect comfort food that’s surprisingly easy to make. The combination of flavors and textures will leave you craving more!

Ingredients

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1⁄2 cup chicken broth
• 1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
• Cooked pasta or rice for serving (optional)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the shrimp:
   Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
2. Sauté garlic:
   In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Cook the shrimp:
   Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Make the sauce:
   Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the pan.
   Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Add the flavorings:
   Stir in the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Simmer the sauce on low heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens.
6. Return the shrimp:
   Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
7. Garnish and serve:
   Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta or rice if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.

2. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or even milk for a lighter version. The sauce may be slightly thinner, but it will still be flavorful.

3. Can I make this dish spicier?

For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also stir in some hot sauce or a chopped jalapeño for more heat.

4. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or another vegetable for a vegetarian version. You can also use plant-based cream to make it dairy-free.

5. How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?

The shrimp should be pink and opaque all the way through. If the shrimp is still translucent, it needs a little more time to cook.

6. Can I add more cheese to the sauce?

Yes! If you love cheesy sauces, feel free to add more Parmesan or other cheeses like mozzarella for a creamier texture.

7. How do I make the sauce thicker?

To thicken the sauce, you can cook it longer over low heat until it reduces. Alternatively, you can add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water and cook for another minute.

8. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any type of pasta you like, such as linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti. Cook the pasta according to the package directions and toss it with the creamy garlic shrimp.

9. Can I add vegetables to the dish?

Yes, adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli can enhance the dish. Add them to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking to heat through.

10. Can I prepare the shrimp in advance?

You can prepare the shrimp and store it in the fridge for a few hours. However, it’s best to prepare the creamy sauce just before serving to ensure it remains fresh and velvety.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp is an easy yet indulgent dish that combines the perfect balance of creamy garlic sauce and succulent shrimp. It’s quick to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether served with pasta, rice, or vegetables, this dish is sure to become a go-to favorite for any occasion. Simple ingredients, minimal cooking time, and maximum flavor—what’s not to love?

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