There’s nothing quite like a quick and satisfying meal that brings comfort and joy to your kitchen. Today, I’m excited to share my Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe, a dish that has become a staple in my household. Growing up in Asheville, North Carolina, in a bustling Mexican-American home, I learned early on the magic of creating flavorful dishes that bring people together. This shrimp recipe is a nod to those vibrant meals, combining simplicity with a rich, creamy sauce that’s infused with garlic — a pantry hero my abuela often turned to when crafting her culinary masterpieces. Living in Charleston now, with my husband Marco and our golden retriever Biscuit, I find inspiration in the local seafood offerings, and this shrimp dish is one of my favorite ways to incorporate them into our meals.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

If there’s one thing I adore about this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp, it’s the sheer simplicity and speed with which it comes together. Perfect for those busy weeknights when time is of the essence, this recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum flavor. It’s a dish that doesn’t demand perfection, allowing even novice cooks to feel like seasoned chefs. The creamy garlic sauce pairs beautifully with the tender shrimp, creating a meal that’s both indulgent and wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile — you can easily serve it with pasta, rice, or a crusty loaf of bread to soak up every last drop of that velvety sauce. Just like the meals I enjoyed with my family, this recipe emphasizes the importance of gathering around the table, savoring each bite, and creating memories with loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

For those who might not have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute with half-and-half. If you’re looking to cut down on calories, a mixture of milk and cornstarch can work in a pinch, though it will yield a slightly less rich sauce.

Nutrition Facts

• Calories: 420 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg

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Steps to Create Your Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it — nothing smells quite like overcooked garlic!
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. This step deglazes the pan, incorporating all those delicious bits stuck to the bottom.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir in the lemon juice, which adds a refreshing brightness to the dish.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving for a pop of color and flavor.

Throughout my years of cooking, I’ve learned that the secret to a great shrimp dish lies in not overcooking the shrimp. They should be tender and juicy, not rubbery. Trust your senses, as my abuela would say, and let the aroma guide you.

Tips for Making the Best Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

To elevate this dish even further, consider the following tips:

• **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh shrimp and garlic make all the difference in flavor.
• **Don’t Rush the Sauce**: Allow the sauce to thicken naturally over medium heat for the best texture.
• **Experiment with Herbs**: While Italian seasoning is my go-to, feel free to add fresh basil or thyme for a unique twist.
• **Adjust the Sauce Consistency**: If the sauce becomes too thick, a splash of chicken broth can loosen it up without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile. For a classic pairing, serve it over a bed of fettuccine or linguine pasta. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp green salad works beautifully. For a heartier meal, pair the shrimp with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce — a trick I picked up from countless family dinners where no sauce was ever left behind. A glass of white wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish perfectly, rounding out the dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers are rare in our house, but if you do find yourself with some, here’s how to store and reheat them:

• **Storage**: Transfer the shrimp and sauce to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• **Reheating**: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
• **Freezing**: While the shrimp can be frozen, the sauce might separate upon thawing. If you do freeze, thaw completely before reheating and stir well to recombine.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main ingredients for Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?

The main ingredients for Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp include the items listed in our ingredients section above. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect flavor and texture.

How long does it take to make Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?

The total time to make Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp includes both preparation and cooking time. Check the recipe card above for exact timing details.

Can I make Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp ahead of time?

Yes, Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp can often be prepared in advance. Store it properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume within the recommended timeframe.

What can I serve with Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?

Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp pairs well with various sides and accompaniments. Consider the serving suggestions mentioned in the recipe for the best dining experience.

Is Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp suitable for special diets?

Depending on the ingredients used, Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp may be adapted for various dietary needs. Check the ingredients list and consider substitutions as needed for your dietary requirements.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is a testament to the joys of home cooking — simple, flavorful, and soul-satisfying. Whether you’re whipping it up for a quick weeknight meal or serving it as a centerpiece for a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. It embodies the essence of what CookingRecipesNow aims to share: accessible recipes that bring warmth and happiness to your table. Remember, cooking is an act of love and creativity, a lesson I learned in my family’s kitchen and one I hope to pass on to you. Happy cooking!