If you’re craving something that feels indulgent yet comes together in no time, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe will absolutely steal your heart. The luscious, velvety sauce infused with garlic and Parmesan clings perfectly to tender, juicy shrimp, making every bite a celebration of comfort and flavor. Whether you’re impressing guests or just treating yourself to a weekday delight, this dish hits all the right notes with its simple ingredients transforming into a sensational seafood feast.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is refreshingly straightforward, but each one plays a crucial part. From butter creating a rich base to Parmesan adding a savory tang, every element works in harmony to build the sauce’s creamy texture and vibrant flavor profile.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Provides a silky, rich foundation without overpowering the delicate shrimp.
- Medium shrimp, peeled and deveined (1 pound): The star of the dish, offering a sweet, tender bite that pairs beautifully with garlic.
- Garlic cloves, finely chopped or minced (3 cloves): Adds that irresistible, aromatic punch that infuses the sauce.
- Dry white wine (½ cup): Brings acidity and depth, perfectly balancing the creamy richness; can be swapped with chicken stock.
- Heavy whipping cream (¾ cup): The key to that dreamy, luscious sauce texture you can’t get enough of.
- Shredded Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Melts into the cream for cheesy, savory undertones that make the flavor complex and satisfying.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing every ingredient’s natural character.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Melt the Butter and Cook Shrimp
Start by melting the butter in a hot skillet. This step sets the stage by creating a rich, flavorful medium to cook the shrimp. Once the butter begins to foam, add the shrimp and cook just until they start turning opaque. This timing is key to keeping them juicy and tender rather than rubbery.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Stir
Immediately after, toss in the finely chopped garlic and stir vigorously for about 20 seconds. This quick sauté releases fantastic garlicky aromas without burning the garlic, which could bring bitterness. At this point, the shrimp will be white on the outside but still slightly translucent inside — perfect for absorbing the sauce flavors in the next steps.
Step 3: Pour in White Wine
Next, pour in the dry white wine. You’ll notice it bubbling and steaming rapidly—that’s the alcohol cooking off, leaving behind a subtle tang and complexity. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds, or until the smell of alcohol fades and the liquid reduces by half. This reduction intensifies the sauce without overpowering the shrimp.
Step 4: Add Cream, Parmesan, and Seasonings
Lower the heat to medium and stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. These ingredients instantly transform the pan into a rich, creamy sauce that beautifully coats each shrimp. Add salt and pepper to taste, then simmer everything together for about a minute until the sauce thickens slightly. Watching the sauce cling irresistibly to the shrimp is pure joy!
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serve
Give the sauce a final taste and tweak the seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. The shrimp should be perfectly cooked but still tender and juicy. Serve immediately to enjoy the creaminess at its best. If you like, garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges to brighten up those rich flavors.
How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley makes a wonderful, bright pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness of the sauce. Don’t forget a few lemon wedges on the side—their zesty juice adds an uplifting citrus note that balances the creamy garlic flavors beautifully.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or buttery pasta. Each side helps soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce, making for a satisfying and complete meal that feels special but effortless.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to elevate your presentation? Serve the shrimp over a bed of garlic sautéed spinach or roasted asparagus for a colorful, nutrient-packed plate. For a fun twist, spoon the creamy shrimp into warm, toasted baguette slices as a sophisticated appetizer that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within two days to maintain the shrimp’s tender texture and the sauce’s smooth consistency. Reheat gently to avoid toughening the seafood.
Freezing
This dish doesn’t freeze exceptionally well because the cream sauce can separate when thawed and reheated. If you want to freeze, consider freezing the shrimp and sauce separately, then combine and gently reheat to retain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently to avoid curdling the cream. Adding a splash of cream or broth can help refresh the sauce’s texture, ensuring every bite tastes close to freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thoroughly thaw the shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and the best texture. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
What can I substitute for white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, chicken stock or broth is an excellent substitute that adds savory depth without altering the overall flavor dramatically.
Is this dish spicy?
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe focuses on rich and savory flavors rather than heat. However, you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick if you like.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
For a dairy-free version, try using coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be different but still deliciously creamy and satisfying.
How long does it take to make this recipe?
The magic is in the speed—this entire Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe can be prepared in about 6 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Final Thoughts
Believe me when I say that this Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a total game-changer for a fast, flavorful dinner that feels like a special occasion every time. The combination of tender shrimp, savory garlic, and that dreamy cream sauce is absolutely addictive. Give it a try, and I promise it’ll become one of your go-to dishes when you need something quick, comforting, and utterly delicious.
Print
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 11 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This creamy garlic shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender shrimp are sautéed in butter with fresh garlic, then simmered in a rich, creamy sauce made with white wine, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Served immediately, this dish offers a luscious balance of garlic and creaminess with a hint of wine, ideal when paired with crusty bread, pasta, or steamed vegetables.
Ingredients
Seafood and Dairy
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- ¾ cup heavy whipping cream
- ¼ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
Liquids
- ½ cup dry white wine (or substitute with chicken stock/broth)
Flavorings
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the skillet and melt butter: Heat a skillet over high heat and melt the unsalted butter until it starts to foam, creating the perfect base to cook the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp and add garlic: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook until the shrimp change color from translucent to white, then add the finely chopped garlic and stir for about 20 seconds. At this point, the shrimp should be white but may still be slightly raw inside.
- Add white wine and reduce: Pour in the dry white wine, which will steam and bubble rapidly. Let it cook for 30 seconds or until you can no longer smell the alcohol and about half of the liquid has evaporated, intensifying the flavor.
- Add cream and cheese, then simmer: Stir in the heavy cream and shredded Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for 1 minute or until the sauce thickens slightly, becoming rich and creamy.
- Adjust seasoning and finish: Taste the sauce and adjust salt and pepper as needed to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Serve immediately with garnish: Plate the creamy garlic shrimp right away, optionally garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges on the side to add brightness if desired.
Notes
- For a non-alcoholic version, substitute white wine with chicken stock or broth.
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy, not rubbery.
- Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh parsley and lemon wedges add a fresh contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
