Imagine a sizzling pan filled with plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a creamy garlic sauce, wafting invitingly through your kitchen. The rich aroma wraps around you like a cozy blanket, promising a flavor explosion that makes your taste buds dance with joy. Creamy garlic shrimp isn’t just a dish; it’s an experience that transports you to a seaside bistro where every bite feels like a vacation.

This recipe is not only easy to whip up but also perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a weeknight dinner. Whether it’s date night or a casual gathering with friends, creamy garlic shrimp will have everyone asking for seconds (and thirds) while you bask in your culinary glory.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy garlic shrimp recipe combines ease and elegance, making it perfect for any occasion
- The rich garlic flavor is complemented by the luscious creaminess, creating an irresistible sauce
- It looks stunning on the plate, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve over pasta, rice, or even steamed veggies
I still remember the first time I made creamy garlic shrimp for my family; their eyes lit up like Christmas morning when they took their first bites!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Shrimp: Opt for large, fresh shrimp; they hold up better in the sauce and deliver maximum flavor.
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Garlic: Use fresh garlic cloves for that punchy flavor; pre-minced just doesn’t cut it.
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Heavy Cream: This is the secret to creating that rich, velvety sauce that makes everything better.
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Butter: A good amount of butter enhances richness; don’t skimp!
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Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds depth and nuttiness; freshly grated works best.
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Parsley: Fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings brightness to the dish.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all those wonderful flavors; adjust to taste.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep the Shrimp: Start by peeling and deveining your shrimp if they’re not already prepped. Give them a quick rinse under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels.
Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute—taking care not to let it burn.
Add the Shrimp: Toss in your shrimp and cook them until they turn pink and opaque—around 3-4 minutes per side. Don’t walk away! You want them tender but not rubbery.
Create the Sauce: Once your shrimp are cooked through, pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened—this usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Add Cheese and Seasonings: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste; adjust according to your preference.
Garnish and Serve!: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. Serve immediately over pasta or rice for maximum enjoyment!
Now you have an effortless yet impressive dish of creamy garlic shrimp that will leave everyone craving more! Enjoy every delightful bite as you bask in your newfound culinary prowess!
You Must Know
- Creamy garlic shrimp is a delightful dish that transforms any meal into a gourmet experience
- The rich aroma and creamy texture elevate ordinary dinners, making them feel special
- This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread for the ultimate indulgence
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing the garlic in butter until fragrant. Add shrimp next, cooking them until pink. This sequence ensures perfect timing for a luscious sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out shrimp for scallops or chicken if seafood isn’t your thing. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or fresh herbs for a flavor boost.
Storing & Reheating
Store creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh shrimp for best flavor; frozen can be watery
- Cook shrimp just until they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture
- Pair with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness
Cooking this creamy garlic shrimp reminds me of my first dinner party. I was nervous, hoping my guests would enjoy it as much as I did!
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for creamy garlic shrimp?
Using frozen shrimp is fine but ensure they’re properly thawed before cooking.
What should I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?
Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
How do I make creamy garlic shrimp spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking to bring the heat!

Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Creamy garlic shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the essence of coastal dining right to your kitchen. Juicy shrimp are sautéed to perfection in a rich, velvety garlic sauce, creating an irresistible pairing that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises to impress with its luxurious flavors and elegant presentation.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Let it simmer gently for about 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve immediately over pasta or rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Coastal
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 220mg