Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp (15 Minutes): A Dreamy Weeknight Dinner

Print

If you’re craving something rich, satisfying, and incredibly quick to prepare, this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is your new go-to. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, date nights at home, or even a last-minute dinner party when you want to impress without the stress. With tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic cream sauce, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavor to your kitchen—no reservations required.

This dish is inspired by European-style creamy seafood preparations, especially those from Italy and France, where garlic, cream, and butter form the backbone of countless comforting meals. It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. With a few staple ingredients and one skillet, you’ll have dinner on the table faster than delivery—and it’ll taste even better.

---

Ingredients Overview

Understanding each ingredient helps you nail this dish every single time. Here’s a quick breakdown of the major players in this creamy garlic shrimp recipe:

Shrimp

Fresh or frozen shrimp work, but for convenience and flavor, opt for large peeled and deveined shrimp (tail on or off). They cook fast and absorb the creamy sauce beautifully. Look for shrimp that are firm and smell like the sea.

Garlic

The hero of the flavor profile. Fresh minced garlic delivers an aromatic base that builds depth into the sauce. Don’t skimp—garlic is what makes this dish sing.

Butter

Used to sauté the garlic and shrimp, butter adds richness and helps bring the sauce together with a silky texture.

Olive Oil

Combining a little olive oil with butter prevents burning and adds another layer of flavor. Use extra virgin olive oil for best results.

Heavy Cream

This is the body of your sauce. Heavy cream simmers down to create a velvety, decadent coating for the shrimp.

Parmesan Cheese

Freshly grated Parmesan thickens the sauce slightly and adds a salty, nutty finish. Always use fresh cheese for best flavor—pre-grated varieties often have anti-caking agents that affect melting.

Chicken or Seafood Stock (optional)

If you want to thin the sauce just a touch, add a splash of stock. It brings more depth without watering it down.

Parsley

Bright and fresh, chopped parsley cuts through the richness and adds color. It’s the perfect garnish.

Salt & Pepper

Season to taste. A pinch of sea salt and a few cracks of black pepper bring balance to the cream and cheese.

---

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s walk through how to make this creamy garlic shrimp masterpiece. Each step is easy but essential for nailing flavor and texture.

1. Prepare the Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw them under cold running water for 5–10 minutes. Pat dry with paper towels—excess moisture can water down your sauce.

2. Sauté Garlic

Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it—it should smell inviting, not bitter.

3. Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly golden at the edges. Remove them from the pan and set aside. They’ll finish cooking in the sauce later.

4. Make the Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Let it bubble gently, then stir in the Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. You want it creamy, not runny.

5. Season

Taste the sauce. Add salt and freshly cracked pepper as needed. If it’s too thick, a splash of chicken or seafood stock will loosen it up without losing richness.

6. Return the Shrimp

Add the shrimp back into the skillet and coat them in the sauce. Simmer for 1 more minute—just long enough to warm through and absorb the flavors.

7. Finish and Garnish

Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh contrast. Serve immediately.

---

Tips, Variations & Substitutions

Pro Tips:

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They only need a couple of minutes. Overcooking makes them rubbery.

• Use fresh garlic: Pre-minced garlic in jars doesn’t have the same bold flavor.

• Freshly grate the cheese: Pre-shredded Parmesan won’t melt as smoothly.

Variations:

• Add spinach: Stir in a handful of baby spinach at the end for color and nutrition.

• Spicy twist: A pinch of red pepper flakes gives the sauce a gentle kick.

• Creamy Tuscan style: Add sun-dried tomatoes and a splash of white wine for a more complex flavor.

Substitutions:

• Dairy-free: Swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use vegan butter.

• Low-carb/keto: Serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

• Pescatarian-friendly: Use seafood stock or vegetable stock instead of chicken broth.

---

Serving Ideas & Occasions

This dish is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

• Over pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or even spaghetti are perfect partners.

• With rice: Jasmine or wild rice soaks up the sauce like a dream.

• Alongside crusty bread: A warm baguette is perfect for mopping up that creamy garlic goodness.

• For special occasions: This dish feels fancy but comes together in a flash—perfect for anniversaries or celebrations.

• Meal prep: Store in airtight containers with a veggie side for quick weekday lunches.

---

Nutritional & Health Notes

Shrimp is a lean source of protein, low in calories but rich in iodine, selenium, and B vitamins. Here’s a closer look at the balance of nutrients in this dish:

• Protein: Each serving delivers about 20–25 grams of protein, making it great for muscle support and satiety.

• Fat: Cream and butter contribute saturated fat, but when enjoyed occasionally, this dish fits within a balanced diet.

• Low carb: Naturally low in carbohydrates—ideal for those following keto or low-carb plans.

• Gluten-free: This recipe contains no wheat or flour, making it safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.

To make it lighter, you can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or reduce the amount of cheese.

---

FAQ

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid a watery sauce.

2. What size shrimp is best?

Large or extra-large shrimp (16–20 count per pound) are ideal. They’re juicy, hold their shape well, and cook evenly.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make excellent additions. Sauté them after the garlic but before the cream.

4. Is this recipe keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in fat and protein. Just avoid serving it with pasta or bread if you’re watching carbs.

5. How can I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid separating the cream sauce.

6. Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free butter. You can also use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

7. What’s the best way to serve creamy garlic shrimp?

Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. It also pairs well with sautéed greens or roasted vegetables for a lighter meal.