This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is a rich and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a creamy, garlic-infused sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress with its irresistible combination of savory, creamy, and garlicky flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions
- Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Make the Sauce: Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Season and Serve: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Servings and Timing
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Lemon Garlic Shrimp: Add freshly squeezed lemon juice or zest to the sauce for a bright, tangy flavor.
- Garlic Shrimp with Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to the skillet for a more hearty and balanced dish.
- Dairy-Free Version: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and omit the Parmesan cheese.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or milk to loosen the sauce if necessary.
10 FAQs
- Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
- Can I make this recipe ahead of time? This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the shrimp and sauce separately and reheat them together when ready to serve.
- What can I serve with this creamy garlic shrimp? This shrimp pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a simple side salad.
- Can I use a different type of cheese? Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like Asiago or Romano for a different flavor profile.
- Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic? While fresh garlic provides the best flavor, you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for this recipe.
- How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked? Shrimp turns pink and opaque when fully cooked. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough, so be sure to cook for about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Is this dish spicy? No, this recipe is not spicy, but you can easily add heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
- Can I add more cream to make the sauce thicker? Yes, if you want a thicker sauce, you can add more cream and simmer it longer to reach your desired consistency.
- Can I make this dish with scallops instead of shrimp? Yes, you can substitute shrimp with scallops, following the same cooking process.
- Can I use a non-stick pan for this recipe? Yes, a non-stick skillet works well for cooking shrimp, especially if you’re worried about sticking.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a simple yet luxurious dish that delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. The rich, creamy sauce combined with tender shrimp creates a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of bread, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.