Is there anything better than a quick, delicious meal that transports you to a warm seaside restaurant? I think not! That’s why I absolutely adore making Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp. This dish is not only bright and flavorful, but it also comes together in just about 15 minutes—which is perfect for those busy weeknights when I’m craving something special but don’t have the luxury of half an hour in the kitchen.
I remember the very first time I made this dish. It was an impromptu dinner party with friends, and I was scrambling to put something together. With just a few ingredients and a little creativity, I ended up whipping up this creamy garlic goodness. Everyone was swooning over it, and I felt like a cooking superstar! Now, this recipe has become a staple in my home, and I’m excited to share it with you.
What’s in Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
Shrimp: The star of the show! I prefer using large, fresh shrimp—just make sure they’re deveined and peeled for easy cooking. If you’re short on time, frozen shrimp can also work great; simply thaw them before cooking.
Butter: For that rich, silky texture! I like to use unsalted butter so I can control the salt levels in the dish.
Garlic: Because what’s a creamy garlic shrimp without the garlic? Fresh minced garlic adds a wonderful aroma and flavor, making the dish truly irresistible.
Heavy Cream: This is where the magic happens! Heavy cream adds a luscious richness to the sauce, making it creamy and dreamy. You can also substitute it with half-and-half or a dairy-free option if you prefer.
Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan brings a savory depth to the dish. It melts beautifully into the sauce, making every bite decadent.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness to balance the richness of the shrimp. Plus, it’s gorgeous as a garnish!
Is Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Good for You?
While this dish is undeniably indulgent, it does have some healthy perks!
Shrimp: Packed with protein and low in calories, shrimp are a great addition to your diet. They also contain important nutrients like selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids.
Garlic: Not only does it boost flavor, but garlic has amazing health properties too. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting benefits, and can even contribute to heart health.
However, with the creamy, buttery sauce, it’s wise to enjoy this dish in moderation, especially if you need to watch your saturated fat intake.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (serves 2-4)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How to Make Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
1. **Prep the Shrimp:** If your shrimp are frozen, give them some time to thaw. Once ready, pat them dry with a paper towel.
2. **Melt the Butter:** In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
3. **Sauté the Garlic:** Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Watch out! The smell will be irresistible!
4. **Cook the Shrimp:** Toss in the shrimp and cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn beautiful pink and opaque. Season with salt and pepper.
5. **Add Cream:** Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. **Stir in Cheese:** Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring continuously until melted and incorporated.
7. **Serve:** Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
A Splash of Creativity!
Want to elevate your Creamy Garlic Shrimp? Here are a few variations to try:
– **Add veggies:** Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers can add some color and nutrition.
– **Spice it up:** A dash of red pepper flakes will bring a delightful heat to the dish!
– **Serve over pasta or rice:** For a heartier meal, serve the shrimp over a bed of spaghetti or rice. You can also use it as a topping for creamy polenta!
I truly hope you give this Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp a try! It’s simple, satisfying, and has the power to turn an ordinary dinner into something spectacular. Once you make it, I’d love to hear your thoughts—did it transport you to a seaside restaurant too? Enjoy cooking!