Quick and Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Indulge in the rich and decadent flavors of this Quick and Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a luscious garlic cream sauce that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. This helps to get rid of excess moisture, allowing for a better sear later on.
2. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika. This will help enhance the flavors of the shrimp.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
2. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
2. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth.
3. Season the sauce with additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

1. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
2. Allow it to heat through for another minute, ensuring the shrimp are well combined with the sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing Shrimp: Opt for fresh shrimp if available, but frozen shrimp can also be a great option. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk; however, this may alter the creaminess of the dish.
• Pasta Pairing: Serve this creamy garlic shrimp over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a delightful meal.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment by adding ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for an extra flavor twist.

Serving Suggestions

This Quick and Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp is best served immediately while it’s still warm. Pair it with a crisp green salad and a glass of white wine to elevate your dining experience. The richness of the dish is beautifully complemented by the acidity of a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.

Explore More

If you’re intrigued by the flavors in this dish, consider trying other seafood recipes that highlight the beauty of simple ingredients. Check out our Easy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp for another delightful shrimp dish.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is not only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion and can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and indulgent. Don’t forget to share your cooking experience and any variations you try!

Happy cooking!