Secret to the best Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 mins
Need an easy dinner? This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a quick 15-minute recipe with a savory, luscious sauce perfect for any weeknight. The secret is in searing the shrimp first and building the sauce in the same pan to capture all the flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined, tails on or off
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 6 cloves garlic finely minced
- 0.5 cup low-sodium chicken broth or dry white wine
- 0.75 cup heavy cream
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese freshly grated is best
- 0.25 tsp red pepper flakes optional, adjust to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter with the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.
- Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it's completely melted and the sauce is smooth. Stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- Return the cooked shrimp (and any accumulated juices from the plate) to the skillet. Toss to coat the shrimp in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Chef's Tips: For the best flavor, use fresh garlic and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Avoid pre-minced garlic and pre-shredded cheese. The key to tender shrimp is not to overcook them; they cook very quickly!
Serving Suggestions: This dish is fantastic served over pasta (like fettuccine or linguine), zucchini noodles, creamy polenta, or steamed rice. Don't forget a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Variations: Add a cup of fresh spinach to the sauce at the end and let it wilt. Sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms also make great additions.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid making the shrimp rubbery.
