Creamy garlic shrimp is the ultimate quick and comforting dinner. If you’re craving a rich, satisfying dish that’s ready in no time, this creamy garlic shrimp recipe hits all the right notes. Juicy shrimp, fragrant garlic, and a silky cream sauce come together in under 30 minutes. It’s the ideal weeknight dinner that feels fancy without the fuss.

This guide includes:

• A creamy sauce that clings perfectly to shrimp and pasta
• Fast cook time with zero flavor sacrifice
• Storage and reheating tips
• Options for serving and variations

For more quick dinner ideas, check out Bento’s Bite easy recipes.

2. Why This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe Works

Rich, Creamy Garlic Sauce

Heavy cream and parmesan melt into a silky sauce, while garlic builds bold flavor with minimal effort.

Juicy Shrimp, Perfectly Cooked

Shrimp cook fast and stay tender just a few minutes per side keeps them juicy.

Quick Cook Time

Everything comes together in one pan in 20 minutes or less, making it great for busy nights.

3. Ingredient List for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional), for garnish

4. Step-by-Step Directions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp in a single layer; cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
4. Pour in heavy cream; bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in Parmesan, season with salt and pepper.
6. Return shrimp to pan; simmer 2–3 minutes until heated through.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

5. Tips & Fixes for Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Sauce too thin? Simmer uncovered a few more minutes to thicken.

Cheese clumping? Use grated Parmesan and stir while sauce is warm not boiling.

Shrimp overcooked? Cook just until they turn pink and curl, then remove from heat.

Extra Tips

• Use fresh shrimp for best texture.
• Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
• Red pepper flakes bring a mild kick if desired.

6. Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheat over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce
• Not freezer-friendly due to the cream content

7. Serving & Styling Ideas

• Serve over linguine, white rice, or toasted bread
• Add steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach for a full plate
• Garnish with chopped parsley or grated lemon zest

Flavor Variations

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half to lighten
• Use scallops instead of shrimp for a twist
• Add mushrooms or baby spinach for extra texture

8. FAQs About Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What pasta works best with this? Linguine, fettuccine, or even angel hair work great.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp? It’s better to use raw pre-cooked shrimp can get rubbery.

Is there a dairy-free version? Try full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast instead of cream and Parmesan.

9. Wrap-Up

Creamy Garlic Shrimp is comfort food with weeknight ease. Using simple ingredients and a fast cook method, you get full flavor in every bite. For a balanced meal, serve it with whole grains and steamed veggies and for more real food recipes, visit Bento’s Bite.

This dish is quick, satisfying, and supports smart cooking habits that align with USDA home cooking principles.

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