Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp – A 15-Minute Dinner

Hi there, my friend! If you’ve ever wished for a dinner that’s quick, creamy, and feels like a restaurant meal without leaving your kitchen, this recipe is for you. My easy creamy garlic shrimp is one of those dishes that I turn to when I want something comforting but don’t have a lot of time. With juicy shrimp, a luscious garlic cream sauce, and just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe comes together in 15 minutes flat. Perfect for busy weeknights or even a last-minute date night at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this dish because it strikes the perfect balance—it’s rich and creamy but still light enough to enjoy any day of the week. Shrimp cook in just a few minutes, and the sauce? Oh, it’s dreamy. Cream, butter, garlic, and a sprinkle of Parmesan come together to make a silky sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp. Serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread, and you’ve got a full meal that feels way fancier than the effort it takes.

Nutritional Benefits

Here’s a little bonus: shrimp aren’t just tasty, they’re also packed with lean protein and low in calories. They’re rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are good for your heart and brain. Garlic brings immune-boosting benefits, while the cream and Parmesan offer calcium for bone health. So yes, this recipe is indulgent, but it’s also nourishing in its own way.

Fun Variations You Can Try

• Lemon Twist: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
• Spicy Kick: Toss in a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne for heat lovers.
• Light Version: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter sauce.
• Herb Lovers: Fresh parsley, basil, or thyme sprinkled on top add freshness and aroma.

The Recipe: Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Ingredients

• 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
6. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss in the sauce until coated.
7. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or bread.

Helpful Tips

• Shrimp cook quickly—don’t overdo it or they’ll turn rubbery.
• Want a thicker sauce? Let it simmer a bit longer before adding the shrimp back in.
• This dish tastes amazing with linguine, but zucchini noodles are a great low-carb option.
• Double the sauce if you love extra creaminess—it’s perfect for dipping bread!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
2. What if I don’t have heavy cream? Half-and-half or evaporated milk works as a lighter substitute.
3. Can I make this ahead? It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce ahead and reheat gently before adding shrimp.
4. What sides go best with this? Pasta, steamed rice, roasted veggies, or even mashed potatoes pair beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This easy creamy garlic shrimp is proof that dinner doesn’t need to be complicated to taste amazing. In just 15 minutes, you can whip up a dish that feels indulgent and comforting but is simple enough for any night of the week. If you try this recipe, I’d love to know what you think! Save it on Pinterest so you can come back to it anytime—and follow me there for more quick, cozy, and irresistible recipes you’ll want to make over and over again.