Food Recipes Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons butter; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Cozy Comfort Meals Ideas

I absolutely love making creamy garlic shrimp because it's a quick, yet indulgent dish that brings the flavors of the coast right to my kitchen. The combination of succulent shrimp, rich cream, and aromatic garlic creates a delightful sauce that pairs perfectly with pasta or rice. Whether I’m cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a special gathering, this recipe always impresses. In about 30 minutes, I can serve up a comforting meal that feels gourmet without too much effort.

Created by

Maribel Sutton

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:41:34.805Z

When I first tried creamy garlic shrimp, I was amazed by how such simple ingredients could create an unforgettable dish. The key to success here is to not overcook the shrimp; they should be tender and juicy, bathing in that glorious sauce. I’ve found that using fresh, high-quality garlic elevates the dish significantly, providing that signature aroma and flavor that almost feels therapeutic.

Recently, I served this dish at a dinner party, and it was a massive hit. Everyone was raving about the rich sauce and how well it complemented the shrimp. I served it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the leftovers. Trust me, the sauce is just that good—you won't want it to go to waste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich garlic flavor that enhances the shrimp perfectly
Creamy sauce that makes everything feel luxurious
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights

The Importance of Fresh Shrimp

When making creamy garlic shrimp, the quality of the shrimp plays a crucial role in the overall flavor of the dish. I recommend using fresh, large shrimp for the best results. Frozen shrimp can work in a pinch, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce. Look for shrimp that is firm to the touch and has a clean, briny smell—these indicators suggest freshness and great flavor.

Additionally, pay attention to the shrimp's shell color. While many varieties are sold with shells on, opting for wild-caught pink or white shrimp not only enhances the taste but also supports sustainable fishing practices. If you're unsure, ask your local seafood market for their freshest catch, which can make a noticeable difference.

Perfecting the Garlic Sauce

The garlic sauce is the star of this dish, and perfecting it requires attention to detail. When sautéing the minced garlic, keep an eye on the heat—medium is ideal to ensure the garlic becomes fragrant without burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste, ruining the sauce. You’ll know it's ready when it becomes aromatic and just begins to turn golden. This typically takes about a minute.

Once you've added the chicken broth, allowing it to reduce is essential for deepening the flavors. Aim for a gentle simmer rather than a boil, which can lead to a harsh flavor. As the broth reduces, the sauce should become slightly thicker and more concentrated. This technique elevates the overall flavor profile of your creamy garlic shrimp.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Creamy garlic shrimp can be served in numerous ways, elevating it from a simple meal to an indulgent dining experience. Pair it with al dente pasta, and consider tossing in some spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added color and nutrition. Alternatively, serve it over fluffy rice—jasmine or basmati work beautifully and soak up the delicious sauce.

If you want to add more complexity to the dish, consider incorporating ingredients like chili flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of white wine in the sauce for a tangy flavor. For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. This not only accommodates dairy restrictions but also imparts a subtle sweetness that complements the savory garlic.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious creamy garlic shrimp:

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons butter
5 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking for a seamless experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy garlic shrimp:

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce for about 3-4 minutes.

Finish the Sauce

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the sauce to thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. If it gets too thick, add a bit more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Combine and Serve

Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet and mix thoroughly until they are well-coated with the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over pasta or rice.

Enjoy your creamy garlic shrimp as a satisfying meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce while it simmers, or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving for brightness.

Make-Ahead Tips

This creamy garlic shrimp can be partially prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal candidate for meal prepping. You can clean and devein the shrimp and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a day before cooking. However, the garlic sauce is best made fresh to preserve its flavor and silky texture.

If you're looking to save time, consider preparing the garlic sauce in advance as well. Once made, store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you're ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on low heat, and then add the sautéed shrimp to warm them through without overcooking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and tough, which is a common pitfall in seafood dishes. To avoid this, keep a close eye on the shrimp while cooking; they should only take 2-3 minutes per side. Once they are pink and opaque, they are done—remove them from the skillet promptly to prevent overcooking.

Another issue might be a sauce that is too thin or too thick. If your sauce ends up too thin, a quick fix is to let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce further. Conversely, if it’s too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. This ensures your dish remains creamy and luscious.

Storing and Freezing

Leftover creamy garlic shrimp should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as necessary.

For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp—but it's best to do this before combining with the sauce. Place the cooked, cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible, storing for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and follow the recipe's steps for making the sauce, incorporating the defrosted shrimp once the sauce is ready.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking them for even cooking.

→ What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version, but the flavor will be slightly different.