Making Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp has become a cherished recipe in my kitchen. There’s something about this dish that strikes a perfect balance between creamy comfort and savory sophistication. It’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply put, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for individual indulgence or a delightful dinner party.
Why you’ll love this dish
This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a time-saver in the kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can serve up a delicious meal that feels indulgent. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing dinner guests, this dish expertly combines the rich flavors of garlic and creamy Parmesan, making it a delightful choice for any occasion. Plus, shrimp cook quickly, transforming into a versatile meal that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad.
“This creamy garlic shrimp recipe was a hit at our family dinner! The flavors were amazing, and it took hardly any time to make. I’ll definitely be adding it to my regular rotation.” – A satisfied home cook
Step-by-step overview
Ready to whip up this scrumptious Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp? Here’s the quick rundown: First, you’ll sauté garlic in butter until fragrant. Next, toss in the shrimp and let them turn a beautiful pink. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir in the Parmesan cheese for a luscious sauce. After thickening it up just a bit, garnish and serve. Simple, right? Let’s dive into the specifics!
Gather these items
For this wonderful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Feel free to swap out fresh ingredients for frozen ones if necessary, just thaw them before cooking.
Step-by-step instructions
- Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until it becomes fragrant.
- Toss in the shrimp, cooking them until they turn a lovely pink, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring everything to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, continuing to cook for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Finish by garnishing with fresh parsley before serving over your choice of pasta or rice.
Best ways to enjoy it
When it comes to serving Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp, the possibilities are endless! For a classic touch, serve it over al dente pasta or fluffy rice, letting the creamy sauce soak in. You can also pair it with a crisp, green salad or garlic bread to soak up every bit of that delicious sauce. For a fancy twist, plate it elegantly on a bed of zoodles or cauliflower rice, catering to low-carb diets while still delivering on flavor.
Storage and reheating tips
Storing any leftovers is easy! Allow the shrimp to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When it’s time to reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat until just heated through to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. If you want to keep it for longer, this dish also freezes well; just ensure it’s fully cooled before packing it away. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Helpful cooking tips
To make the most of this recipe, here are some useful tips. Always ensure the skillet is hot enough before adding the shrimp, so they sear nicely and don’t get waterlogged. Fresh garlic is key for flavor, so don’t substitute with garlic powder. Also, if you want a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. Lastly, if you’re not a Parmesan fan, try a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano for a unique twist.
Creative twists
Don’t hesitate to get creative with this recipe! You could add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or toss in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition. If you’re looking for a bit of a kick, consider stirring in some diced jalapeños or a touch of hot sauce. For those following a plant-based diet, feel free to swap the shrimp for mushrooms or firm tofu, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
The entire process, from prep to table, takes about 15 to 20 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Just ensure that the shrimp are fully thawed and drained before cooking for the best results.
How can I make this dish lighter?
You can substitute half-and-half or a lower-fat cream alternative for the heavy cream and go easy on the cheese for a lighter fare.
This is a dish that not only satisfies your cravings but is also easy to make. Whip it up at home, and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite!
PrintEasy Creamy Garlic Shrimp
A luscious and creamy garlic shrimp dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights and special gatherings.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Toss in the shrimp and cook until they turn pink, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, cooking for about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving over pasta or rice.
Notes
Feel free to swap fresh ingredients for frozen ones; just thaw before cooking. Consider adding lemon juice or spinach for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
