Food Recipes Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Name: Food Recipes Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen Magic

I’ve always been a fan of seafood dishes, and there’s something especially delightful about creamy garlic shrimp. The blend of rich cream with garlic creates a sauce that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. This recipe has become one of my go-to meals when I want to impress guests or simply indulge on a cozy night in. With just a few pantry staples and 20 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels gourmet and tastes like heaven.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-02-28T05:29:35.381Z

During one of my cooking adventures, I stumbled upon the idea of melding garlic with cream to create a luscious sauce for shrimp. It was a game-changer! The depth of flavor you achieve by sautéing the garlic until golden brown before adding cream makes all the difference. This technique not only enhances the dish’s overall taste but also makes the kitchen smell absolutely divine.

One specific tip that I cherish is to use fresh shrimp if possible, as the flavor and texture are unparalleled compared to frozen options. I also recommend incorporating a splash of white wine for an extra layer of richness. Trust me, it will elevate your creamy garlic shrimp to new heights!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Decadent sauce that coats each shrimp perfectly
Quick and easy preparation, ideal for busy weeknights
A crowd-pleaser that pairs beautifully with pasta or rice

The Role of Garlic in the Sauce

Garlic is truly the star of this creamy garlic shrimp dish. When sautéed, it transforms from sharp to sweet, providing a depth of flavor that enhances the overall experience. For best results, use fresh garlic; it tends to have a more vibrant taste than pre-minced options. You’ll want to sauté it just until fragrant—around 1 minute is ideal—so it doesn’t become bitter. If you notice it browning too quickly, lower the heat to avoid overpowering the dish.

Another technique I recommend is to crush the garlic cloves before mincing. This not only releases more of its natural oils, intensifying the flavor, but also makes it easier to chop evenly. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can affect the entire sauce's profile, transforming its flavor into something unpleasant.

Texture and Consistency Tips

Achieving a creamy yet not too thick sauce is key to complementing the shrimp. When adding the heavy cream, consider reducing the heat to medium-low. This prevents the cream from boiling and becoming too thick too quickly. A gentle simmer of 3-4 minutes is usually sufficient to achieve the desired consistency. If the sauce gets too thick, don't hesitate to add a splash of chicken broth to loosen it up.

Another tip for texture is continuously stirring the sauce while it simmers. This prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the skillet, ensuring a smooth and glossy finish. If you prefer a little added depth, consider incorporating a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic, letting it reduce before adding the broth. It adds complexity without overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delightful dish:

For the Creamy Garlic Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

These simple ingredients will come together to create an irresistible dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your creamy garlic shrimp:

Sauté the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Create the Creamy Base

Next, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce until well coated. Cook for an additional minute and then garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Your creamy garlic shrimp is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. This adds a delightful heat that balances perfectly with the creaminess.

Make-Ahead and Storage

One of the best aspects of this creamy garlic shrimp dish is how easy it is to prepare in advance. You can peel and devein the shrimp and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Similarly, you can prepare the garlic sauce up to 2 days ahead. Just reheat it gently on low heat before adding the cooked shrimp to avoid overcooking them.

If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so on medium-low heat to prevent the cream from separating. If necessary, add a splash of broth or a little extra cream to maintain the sauce's creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

For an elegant presentation, serve creamy garlic shrimp over a bed of freshly cooked pasta. The noodles will soak up the delicious sauce, making each bite irresistible. You can also serve it over fluffy rice or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every drop of the creamy goodness. If you're feeling adventurous, incorporate sautéed vegetables like spinach or asparagus for added color and nutrients.

An excellent pairing for this dish is a light salad dressed with a vinaigrette. This contrast balances the richness of the shrimp and cream. You might also consider garnishing the dish with shaved Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavors further. Don't forget to top it off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best texture.

→ What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?

This dish pairs well with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad to complement the rich flavors.

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut-based cream for a dairy-free version.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.