Introduction
Welcome to a delightful culinary adventure that will make your taste buds sing! This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive gathering. With succulent shrimp enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic sauce, every bite offers a tantalizing burst of flavor. Pair it with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of pasta, and you’re in for a treat! Let’s dive into the delicious details of this easy yet elegant dish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add the minced garlic, and sauté for about 1 minute, allowing it to become fragrant and golden brown.
- Gently add the shrimp to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a lovely pink and opaque.
- Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
- Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, Italian seasoning, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Let the sauce simmer and thicken for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a luscious consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they’re well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just enough to heat the shrimp through.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a zesty finish.
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine for an elevated dining experience.
Cooking Techniques
To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, focus on the timing: they should be cooked until just pink and opaque, as overcooking can make them tough. When simmering the sauce, don’t rush it—allowing time for the flavors to meld is key to achieving that rich and creamy texture that coats the shrimp beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?
This dish is fantastic over pasta, rice, or even served with crusty bread to soak up that amazing sauce. A fresh side salad also complements it well.
Conclusion
With its simple ingredients and quick preparation, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re whipping it up for a cozy night in or impressing guests at a dinner party, each creamy, garlicky bite promises to leave everyone asking for more. So grab your skillet and let the cooking magic begin!