Dinner

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

ByHarper Ellington January 3, 2026January 3, 2026

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a rich and flavorful dish that comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Tender shrimp are cooked in a garlicky, creamy sauce with a hint of paprika and lemon for brightness. This recipe serves four and can be paired beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

The image shows a close-up of cooked shrimp in a creamy orange sauce inside a black pan. The shrimp are pinkish-orange with a charred texture, arranged in a circular pattern covering the pan bottom. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled over the shrimp and sauce, adding a fresh contrast. The sauce looks smooth and rich, filling the spaces between the shrimp. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp smoked paprika or sweet paprika
½ tsp red pepper flakes, optional, for heat
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken or seafood broth
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Step 2: Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and half the paprika. Sear shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in remaining paprika and red pepper flakes.
Step 4: Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, then return shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat shrimp in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Cook for 2 more minutes until shrimp are heated through and fully cooked.
Step 7: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine before pouring in the cream and broth.
If you prefer less heat, omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.
Serve over linguine or rice to make a complete meal.
Swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano for a sharper cheese flavor.

Storage

Store any leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can also be frozen for up to one month.