Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe: Easy & Restaurant-Style

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a rich, high-protein dish with 24 grams of protein per serving. It combines tender shrimp with a creamy garlic sauce for a bold, satisfying flavor. I made this for a date night dinner, and it was a total crowd-pleaser! Ready in about 20 minutes, it’s perfect for quick dinners or special occasions. This stovetop recipe delivers a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

This dish is quick to prepare with one skillet and simple ingredients. It offers 24 grams of protein from shrimp, making it a nutritious main course. The creamy garlic sauce adds a rich, savory taste that pairs well with many sides. I love how you can adjust the creaminess or spice level. It’s ideal for weeknight meals, date nights, or gatherings.

Health Benefits of Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Shrimp provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids for heart and muscle health. Garlic offers anti-inflammatory compounds for immunity. Cream adds healthy fats for energy and satisfaction. Lemon juice contributes vitamin C for immune support. This dish is a balanced, protein-packed option for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

For the Shrimp:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce:

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about 1/2 lemon)
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tsp dried parsley (or 1 tbsp fresh parsley)

For Garnish (Optional):

• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tsp grated parmesan cheese

Substitutions: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. Swap shrimp with scallops for a different seafood option. Replace parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version. Use lime juice instead of lemon for a different citrus note.

Notes: Pat shrimp dry to ensure even cooking. Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Prepare the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry with paper towels; season with salt, pepper, and paprika in a bowl. This ensures a flavorful, golden sear.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside to keep them tender.

Start the Creamy Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat; add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. This creates a rich base for the sauce.

Finish the Sauce

Add heavy cream, parmesan, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and parsley to the skillet; stir and simmer for 2-3 minutes until thickened. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra parmesan for a flavorful finish. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Cooking Tips

Pat shrimp dry before cooking to get a nice sear. This prevents steaming and keeps them tender. I dried mine thoroughly, and they were perfect.

Use fresh garlic for a bold, aromatic sauce. Pre-minced garlic can be less intense. I minced fresh cloves, and it was delicious.

Cook shrimp just until pink to avoid a rubbery texture. Overcooking makes them tough. I checked at 2 minutes, and they were spot-on.

Simmer the sauce gently to prevent curdling the cream. This keeps it smooth and creamy. I stirred constantly, and it thickened nicely.

Adjust red pepper flakes to control heat. Start with a pinch for mild flavor. I used less, and it was just right for my taste.

Use a large skillet to avoid overcrowding shrimp. This ensures even cooking. I used a wide pan, and it worked great.

Add parmesan slowly while stirring to melt it smoothly. This prevents clumps in the sauce. I added it gradually, and it was perfect.

Variations and Substitutions

Swap shrimp for chicken breast for a different protein. Dice and cook chicken thoroughly before adding to sauce. I tried chicken, and it was a great twist.

Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free, tropical flavor. This keeps the sauce creamy. I used coconut milk, and it was delicious.

Add 1/4 cup chopped spinach for extra nutrients. This adds color and flavor. I mixed in spinach, and it was a nice touch.

Replace lemon juice with white wine for a richer sauce. Use 2 tbsp for a subtle depth. I tried wine, and it was flavorful.

Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a smoky kick. This enhances the garlic flavor. I used smoked paprika, and it was bold.

Add 1/4 cup diced mushrooms for an earthy flavor. This adds texture to the sauce. I tried mushrooms, and it was a hit.

Make it low-carb by serving with zucchini noodles instead of pasta. This keeps it light. I used zucchini noodles, and it paired well.

Storage and Meal Prep

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days; reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent curdling. Freeze for up to 1 month, thawing overnight before reheating, but sauce may separate slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Here are answers to common questions about this dish.

1. Why are my shrimp rubbery?
   Avoid overcooking; cook just until pink. I checked at 2 minutes, and they were tender.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
   Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking. I used fresh, but thawed worked fine.
3. How do I make it dairy-free?
   Use coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and parmesan. I tried this, and it was still creamy.
4. Can I make it ahead?
   Yes, cook shrimp and sauce; reheat gently before serving. I prepped a day ahead, and it saved time.
5. How do I increase the protein?
   Add extra shrimp or serve with a protein-rich side like beans. I added more shrimp, and it hit 28 grams.
6. Why is my sauce too thin?
   Simmer longer or add more parmesan to thicken. I simmered an extra minute, and it was perfect.

Serving Suggestions

Serve over spaghetti or rice for a hearty meal. Pair with a side of steamed broccoli or asparagus for a balanced plate. Enjoy with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing touch. I served it with garlic bread, and it was a perfect combo. It’s great for date nights, quick dinners, or special occasions.

Nutrition Info for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Per serving (1/4 of recipe, 4 servings):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 1g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 16g
  Source: USDA Food Database (2025). Values are approximate.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe is a rich, high-protein dish with bold, savory flavors. Its quick prep makes it perfect for busy nights or special meals. How do you like to serve your shrimp? Let us know in the comments!