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Growing up in Chicago, my Polish-American family gatherings were always a delightful blend of laughter, stories, and, of course, incredible food. My babcia, with her warm smile and flour-dusted apron, would often whip up dishes that seemed to capture the essence of comfort. One of my favorites was her creamy garlic shrimp, a dish that combined the rich flavors of garlic and butter with the tender sweetness of shrimp. It was a dish that always brought everyone to the table, eager for a taste. Over the years, I’ve added my own twist to her classic recipe, and today, I’m excited to share it with you. This creamy garlic shrimp is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey back to those cherished family moments, filled with warmth and love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy garlic shrimp recipe is a true gem in the world of comfort food. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu dinner parties. The combination of garlic, butter, and cream creates a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. Plus, it’s a versatile dish that can be served over pasta, rice, or even with a side of crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the savory sauce. Not to mention, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add the shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if using. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor and nutrition
- Perfect for any occasion
- Customizable to your taste preferences
- Budget-friendly ingredients
Expert Tips for Success
- Ensure your shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the skillet.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
- Do not overcook the shrimp; they should be just pink and opaque to maintain their tenderness.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it out with a bit more chicken broth or cream.
When I make this creamy garlic shrimp, my go-to tool is the MOSFiATA 8″ Professional Chef’s Knife for chopping garlic and parsley with ease. And to ensure my shrimp are cooked to perfection, the MEATER SE Smart Meat Thermometer is a lifesaver. These tools make the prep and cooking process seamless and enjoyable.
Variations and Substitutions
Feel free to customize this creamy garlic shrimp to suit your taste preferences. For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra red pepper flakes. For a more robust flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce. Vegetarians can swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or zucchini slices.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of linguine or rice for a hearty meal. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables make excellent accompaniments, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce. For a complete dining experience, a chilled glass of white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors wonderfully.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Creating this creamy garlic shrimp dish always brings back fond memories of family gatherings and the comforting meals shared around our Chicago kitchen table. I hope it brings a touch of that warmth and joy to your home as well. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with friends and family, and enjoy the laughter and love that come with every bite.
👉 I hope you loved making this creamy garlic shrimp—it’s like a warm hug from my kitchen to yours. If you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, try out my Garlic Butter Chicken, Lemon Herb Salmon, or Creamy Tuscan Pasta. Join us on our Facebook Page and Facebook Group — and don’t forget to follow on Pinterest for daily inspiration!
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Creamy Garlic Shrimp: 8 Easy Recipes to Enjoy in 15 minutes
A comforting dish combining garlic, butter, and cream with succulent shrimp, perfect for any occasion.
Keep the screen of your device on while you follow the steps.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook, stirring frequently, until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
- Season sauce with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Add shrimp back to skillet and toss to coat in creamy sauce.
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes, if using. Serve immediately over your choice of pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.