Creamy Garlic Shrimp
A cozy and quick dinner featuring shrimp in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce that's perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined Fresh or thawed frozen, tails removed for easy eating.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For that golden, nutty flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Prevents butter from burning.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced The heart of the dish; fragrant and bold.
- 1/2 cup shallots or yellow onion, finely chopped Adds a gentle sweetness.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or low-sodium chicken broth Deglazes the pan and lifts flavors.
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese Gives a savory depth; nutritional yeast works as a dairy-free substitution.
- 1/2 unit juice of half a lemon Brightens the sauce and balances richness.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika Adds warmth and color.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped For garnish and a fresh finish.
Instructions
Preparation
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Dry shrimp sear better and develop a lovely color.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When shimmering, add shrimp in a single layer. Sear 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and just opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining butter. Sauté shallots or onion until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant — do not let it brown.
- Pour in the white wine or broth to deglaze, scraping up the brown bits; simmer for 1 to 2 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce for 1 minute until heated through. Turn off heat and stir in chopped parsley for a fresh lift.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables. Finish with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a lemon wedge on the side.
Notes
Make this Creamy Garlic Shrimp your own with a few simple swaps: add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, try tarragon or chives instead of parsley, or stir in baby spinach or asparagus tips for extra color. Pair with warm bread and a crisp white wine for a comforting meal.