Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This creamy garlic shrimp is an easy-to-make dish that’s packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, the shrimp are sautéed in a rich, garlicky sauce that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Whether I’m looking for a quick dinner or something a little more special, this dish always satisfies.

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

I start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Next, I add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. I cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, I remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I toss in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant.

I then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. I bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Once the sauce is ready, I add the shrimp back into the skillet and stir them to coat them in the creamy sauce. I add a splash of lemon juice and, if I’m feeling a little adventurous, the red pepper flakes.

After another minute of cooking, I garnish the shrimp with freshly chopped parsley and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

There are plenty of ways I can switch up this recipe depending on what I’m in the mood for. Here are a few variations I like:

For a dairy-free version: I can swap the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Spicy Shrimp: If I’m in the mood for some extra heat, I can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some fresh chopped chili peppers.

Veggies: Adding sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can give the dish extra texture and flavor.

Pasta: Sometimes, I toss the shrimp and creamy sauce with cooked pasta for a comforting meal.

Storage/Reheating

If I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, I can warm the shrimp and sauce gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. I may need to add a splash of broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly fine! Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking. If I’m short on time, I can also cook the shrimp from frozen—just be sure to cook them a little longer until they’re opaque and pink.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, I can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for later. The creamy sauce may thicken a bit, but it can be reheated easily with a little bit of broth or cream.

What should I serve this creamy garlic shrimp with?

I love serving this dish with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. It can also be enjoyed on its own for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If I want the sauce to be thicker, I can let it simmer a bit longer to reduce it. Alternatively, I can add a tablespoon of cream cheese or a cornstarch slurry (mixing cornstarch with a little cold water) to help thicken the sauce.

Can I use other seafood besides shrimp?

Absolutely! This creamy garlic sauce is versatile, and I’ve used it with scallops, crab, or even fish fillets. Just adjust the cooking time based on the seafood you’re using.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic shrimp recipe is one of my go-to favorites for quick, flavorful dinners. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. Whether I’m serving it to guests or enjoying it on a weeknight, it’s always a hit. The rich and creamy sauce combined with the tender shrimp is a comforting meal I can whip up in no time.

Recipe:

Creamy Garlic Shrimp

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Low Calorie

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Description

This creamy garlic shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish with sautéed shrimp in a rich, garlicky cream sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy weeknight meal or a special treat.