Name: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: For the Shrimp:; 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt; For the Sauce:; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced or pureed; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine); 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper, to taste; Garnish:; Fresh parsley, chopped

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Few things feel more indulgent than a skillet full of shrimp simmered in a rich, garlicky cream sauce—and yet this Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. Succulent, juicy shrimp are seared with paprika and black pepper, then bathed in a buttery, Parmesan-infused cream sauce that’s laced with garlic, herbs, and a touch of heat. Whether you spoon it over pasta, rice, or serve with warm crusty bread, this dish is pure comfort with every bite.

Perfect for impressing guests or elevating your everyday dinner routine, this shrimp recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. One pan, no stress, all flavor.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in 20 Minutes: Quick, easy, and ideal for busy nights.
Incredibly Creamy: The sauce is rich, velvety, and full of garlic-Parmesan flavor.
Customizable: Add veggies, swap the protein, or use wine for extra depth.
One-Skillet Wonder: Easy cleanup and even easier cooking.
Pairs with Everything: Serve over pasta, rice, zoodles, or with toasted bread.

Ingredients

Yip: you can find a full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

For the Shrimp:

1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

For the Sauce:

2 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced or pureed
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, toss shrimp with paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes, flipping halfway through, until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavor.

Step 5: Cream and Cheese
Add heavy cream, stirring until combined. Mix in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens.

Step 6: Finish the Dish
Return shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 1–2 more minutes until heated through.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

Variations

Add Veggies: Bell peppers, onions, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are all great additions.
Make it Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
Swap the Protein: Try chicken, scallops, or tofu in place of shrimp.
Lighten It Up: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of cream.
Cheese Twist: Mix in a touch of mozzarella for added creaminess.

Heating and Storage

Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream if needed.
Not Freezer Friendly: Cream sauces tend to separate when frozen and thawed, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and a bit of cream cheese.

Is this dish spicy?

Only slightly, due to the red pepper flakes. You can leave them out or increase for more heat.

Can I serve this with pasta?

Absolutely. It pairs beautifully with linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Use coconut cream in place of dairy and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

What kind of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc works best.

Can I add lemon juice?

Yes, a small squeeze of lemon brightens the flavor and balances the richness.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of broth or milk to thin it out slightly.

Can I prep this ahead?

You can prep all ingredients ahead, but it’s best cooked fresh so the shrimp don’t overcook.

What bread goes best with this?

A crusty baguette, garlic bread, or even focaccia makes a perfect pairing.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Shrimp is the kind of recipe that delivers restaurant-quality results with minimal effort. It’s elegant enough for guests but quick enough for any weeknight, with rich, bold flavors that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds. Pair it with your favorite starch, pour a glass of wine, and enjoy a plate of pure comfort.