Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a luxurious and quick dish that combines succulent shrimp with a velvety, garlicky cream sauce. Infused with buttery flavors and a hint of parmesan, this dish is the perfect balance of rich, savory goodness and zesty garlic. Whether served over pasta, rice, or paired with a side of vegetables, Creamy Garlic Shrimp makes a fantastic meal that’s easy enough for weeknight dinners yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your cooking rotation.
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and golden (be careful not to burn the garlic).
- Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly.
- Add the heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-4 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the shrimp through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes:
- Shrimp Tips: For the best results, use large, fresh shrimp, and don’t overcook them to avoid a rubbery texture. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them as they turn pink.
- Cream Substitutes: If you prefer a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
- Flavor Variations: Feel free to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra tang.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion:
Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress. With its silky, cheesy garlic sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, this meal is as satisfying as it is simple to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The best part? It’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough to serve for guests, making it a versatile and delightful option for any meal.