Nothing quite matches the aroma of garlic sizzling away in butter and olive oil. This creamy garlic shrimp is a dreamy dish that instantly brings comfort to your dinner table. It’s a beloved choice among seafood lovers for good reason: it’s rich, indulgent, and oh-so-easy to whip up!
Imagine silky shrimp swimming in a luscious garlic parmesan sauce, making every bite feel like a special occasion. With just one pan needed and minimal fuss, it’s like your favorite restaurant dish, but ready in 20 minutes. Plus, it uses simple pantry staples, so you can create this cozy dish on any busy weeknight without breaking a sweat.
Started making this shortly after getting my family hooked on shrimp recipes back in 2015. The first time I served it, my partner declared it “restaurant quality” and didn’t stop raving about it! The key? Don’t rush the garlic. Let it infuse the butter before adding the shrimp for that perfect flavor. After testing many variations, I can confidently say this one’s a keeper!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe: The Ultimate Comfort Dish
Ingredients
Method
- Combine the shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add shrimp. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, flipping to cook each side until just done. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- Lower the heat to medium and melt butter in the same pan. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about one minute.
- Pour in chicken broth or white wine, letting it simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes to slightly reduce and concentrate flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream thoroughly, then add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them well with the sauce. Let everything cook together on low heat for an additional 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the dish before serving. Pair your creamy garlic shrimp with pasta, rice, or a slice of crusty bread for a fulfilling meal.
Notes
- For variation, try adding diced onions, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes alongside the garlic for a different flavor twist. This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheats beautifully on the stovetop.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic shrimp is a delightful mix of flavors, making it perfect for cozy dinners.
- Quick and simple, with everything made in one panless clean-up, more time to enjoy!
- Affordable and accessible ingredients mean you can whip it up anytime without hassle.
- Indulge in restaurant-quality flavor without needing to leave your kitchen!
Key Ingredients & Tools
- Shrimp: Fresh, juicy shrimp is the star of this dish!
- Butter & Olive Oil: These create a rich base for the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated helps thicken the sauce and adds a salty kick.
- Garlic: Minced garlic transforms the dish into a mouthwatering experience.

How It Works Step-by-Step
- Season your shrimp properly with paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Sear the shrimp until they’re perfectly tender and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter, then sauté garlic for that aromatic goodness.
- Add chicken broth to infuse flavor, followed by cream and cheese for that dreamy consistency.
- Finally, return the shrimp to the pan, coat them in the velvety sauce, and enjoy!
Troubleshooting Tips
- Sauce Too Thin? Simmer it longer to thicken or add a bit more cheese.
- Shrimp Overcooked? Aim for that lovely pink color, cooking for just a couple of minutes on each side!
- Need More Flavor? Toss in some extra Italian seasoning or a squeeze of lemon juice!
Creative Tweaks
Feel free to play around with the recipe! Here are some ideas:
- Add diced bell peppers or spinach for a veggie boost.
- For a bit of heat, toss in some extra red pepper flakes.
- Serve with pasta for an Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Pasta experience!
Serving & Storage Suggestions
Pair this dish with:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or a simple side salad for balance.
- Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up that luscious sauce!
Note: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat on medium-low heat to keep the shrimp tender.
Timing Chart
| Step | Timing |
|---|---|
| Season Shrimp | 2 minutes |
| Sear Shrimp | 4-6 minutes |
| Make Creamy Sauce | 7-10 minutes |
| Combine & Heat Through | 2 minutes |
Expert Says
Creamy garlic shrimp comes together beautifully when you sauté shrimp quickly over high heat, sealing in their natural flavors and moisture. The inclusion of garlic not only enhances taste but also provides allicin, a compound known for its potential health benefits. Enjoy this dish as a quick, delicious source of protein.
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The Adventure of Perfecting Creamy Garlic Shrimp
After a few kitchen mishaps and way too much garlic, I finally nailed this creamy garlic shrimp recipe. I remember the first attempt left the kitchen smelling like a garlic factory, but now, the rich, savory sauce envelops those tender shrimp just perfectly. Trust me, this dish is worth the journey!
FAQs ( Creamy Garlic Shrimp )
How long does it take to cook creamy garlic shrimp?
This meal can be cooked in just about 15 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. After prepping your ingredients, the shrimp only need a few minutes to cook through in the flavorful sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used for this dish. Be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to achieve the best texture and flavor. A quick soak in cold water can do the trick.
What side dishes pair well with creamy garlic shrimp?
This delicious shrimp dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
How can I make this dish keto-friendly?
To make this meal keto-friendly, eliminate any high-carb ingredients like pasta. Serve it over sautéed greens or spiralized vegetables instead, and use heavy cream to add that rich, creamy texture without the carbs.
What variations can I try with this recipe?
Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or even a splash of white wine for depth. You can also adjust the level of garlic or add some red pepper flakes for a kick.

Conclusion
You’ll love how this creamy garlic shrimp comes together in just 20 minutes, filling your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Each bite is a cozy hug that’s both indulgent and simple enough for any night!
Feel free to switch things up! Try adding a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor or some fresh herbs for a bright finish. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container to savor later just reheat gently to keep that shrimp juicy.
I’d love to see your take on this dish! Did you grow up enjoying something like creamy shrimp? Share your memories or photos with me. Don’t forget to save this recipe for a delightful family dinner cooking like this is all about making connections at the table!










