Introduction
This quick and indulgent recipe for creamy garlic shrimp is perfect for weeknight dinners or a special treat. Juicy shrimp are simmered in a luscious garlic cream sauce, ready to be served over pasta, rice, or alongside crusty bread. You’ll have a restaurant-quality dish in under 20 minutes!
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1/4 cup (60 ml) chicken or vegetable stock
- 1/4 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
- Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
Step 3: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes to heat through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with lemon wedges, if desired.
Serving Suggestions:
- Over al dente pasta like fettuccine or linguine
- With steamed rice or quinoa
- Alongside roasted or steamed vegetables
- With warm, crusty bread for dipping
Tips:
- Substitute half-and-half or light cream for a lighter sauce.
- Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- For a touch of zest, grate lemon zest into the sauce.
This creamy garlic shrimp dish is simple yet luxurious, perfect for impressing guests or treating yourself!