There’s something irresistible about a skillet of sizzling shrimp swimming in creamy garlic sauce. This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is everything you want in a weeknight dinner — simple, fast, and unbelievably good. The shrimp are seared to perfection, then tossed in a rich sauce made with garlic, cream, and Parmesan that feels straight out of a restaurant kitchen.
The first time I made this, I had about 15 minutes before dinner and a bag of shrimp in the freezer. I sautéed them with butter and garlic, added a splash of cream, and it turned into one of those recipes you know you’ll make again and again. Now it’s a family favorite — right next to my Creamy Parmesan Pasta Soup and French Onion Ground Beef.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well, scraping any flavorful bits from the pan.
- Add Italian seasoning and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing gently to coat. Garnish with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You’ll Love Creamy Garlic Shrimp
This dish is all about balance — savory garlic, tender shrimp, and a rich sauce that doesn’t feel heavy. It’s quick enough for busy nights but elegant enough for guests. Plus, you only need one skillet and a handful of simple ingredients.
If you love comforting, creamy dishes like my Cheesy Ham and Potato Soup or White Lasagna Soup, this one’s going to earn a spot in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Optional: red pepper flakes or parsley for garnish
If you enjoy quick seafood meals, try pairing this with my Garlic Herb Dinner Rolls — they’re perfect for soaking up that delicious sauce.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Cream and Flavor
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir well, scraping any flavorful bits from the pan.
Step 4: Simmer and Season
Add Italian seasoning and lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing gently to coat. Garnish with chopped parsley or red pepper flakes. Serve immediately.
If you love fast skillet recipes like this, you’ll also adore my French Onion Ground Beef — another simple, flavor-packed meal.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: They only need a couple of minutes per side.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts smoother into the sauce.
- Add lemon last: Keeps the sauce creamy without curdling.
- Serve immediately: The sauce is best when hot and silky.
The same quick tips apply to my Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole — simple steps that make a big difference.
How to Serve
This shrimp recipe pairs beautifully with:
- Buttered pasta or fettuccine
- Steamed rice or risotto
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls
- Sautéed spinach or roasted veggies
For a cozy dinner combo, serve it with a side of my Creamy Cheesy Potato Soup.
How to Store and Reheat
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh — dairy sauces can separate after thawing.
Like my Cajun Potato Soup, this dish reheats best on the stove rather than the microwave.
Flavor Variations
- Garlic Butter Shrimp: Skip the cream and just use butter, lemon, and garlic.
- Cajun Cream Sauce: Add a teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a spicy twist.
- Garlic Shrimp Pasta: Toss the shrimp and sauce with fettuccine or linguine.
- Spinach Shrimp Skillet: Stir in a handful of spinach before serving.
If you love flexible recipes you can tweak, this one’s just as fun to play with as my Crack Chicken & Rice Soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes — just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
2. Can I make this without cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk, though the sauce will be slightly lighter.
3. Can I use cooked shrimp?
Yes, but add them only at the end to heat through so they don’t overcook.
4. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer for an extra minute or stir in a teaspoon of grated Parmesan.
The Final Bite
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is the definition of simple luxury — tender shrimp, velvety sauce, and bold garlic flavor in every bite. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet impressive enough for guests. Every time I make it, it disappears fast — everyone’s dipping bread to get the last bit of sauce.
Serve it over pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes for a cozy, satisfying dinner that never fails to impress.