Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a delicious and easy recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Featuring tender shrimp in a rich garlic Parmesan cream sauce, this dish is ideal served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. With its quick preparation time and gourmet flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for seafood lovers looking for a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Ingredients

Shrimp

• 1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce

• ½ cup dry white wine (see notes)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon mustard powder
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 3 tablespoons cold butter
• ¼ cup freshly chopped parsley

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Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

1. Gather and measure all ingredients before starting.
2. Thaw the shrimp completely, then pat them dry. If needed, remove the shell, tail, and veins.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute and 20 seconds per side. Use a timer to avoid overcooking.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet, tilting the pan as needed, and transfer them to a clean plate. Note: The shrimp will continue to cook slightly while resting and when added back to the sauce later.

Make the Sauce

1. Using the same skillet, add the wine and minced garlic over medium heat. Let the mixture gently bubble and reduce for 3-4 minutes, until the liquid is reduced by half.
2. Stir in the chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and mustard powder. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil and simmer for 6-7 minutes to thicken and concentrate the flavors.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually mix in the Parmesan cheese until fully incorporated.
4. Return the shrimp to the skillet, allowing them to heat through for about 30 seconds.
5. Add the cold butter and tilt the pan to swirl it into the sauce until melted.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the lemon juice. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Creamy: The combination of Parmesan, cream, and butter creates a luxurious sauce.
• Quick to Make: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, served over pasta, or paired with crusty bread.
• Restaurant Quality: Impress your guests with a gourmet dish at home.

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Tips

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so watch the timing closely to ensure they stay tender and juicy.
• Prepare Ingredients Ahead: Have everything measured and ready before you start cooking.
• Use High-Quality Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese will melt better and enhance the flavor.
• Swirl in Butter: Adding cold butter at the end gives the sauce a silky finish.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops, chicken, or salmon for a different twist.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream and dairy-free Parmesan.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for added texture and nutrition.
• Wine Substitute: Replace wine with additional chicken broth and a splash of white vinegar or lemon juice.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

What’s the best wine for this recipe? Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay work well.

Can I make this ahead of time? The dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it gently before adding the shrimp.

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Serving and Suggestions

• Serve Over: Pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes.
• Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Garnish Ideas: Top with extra parsley, grated Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for added flair.