Succulent shrimp coated in a rich, velvety garlic cream sauce create a dish that feels indulgent yet effortless to prepare. The combination of tender seafood, aromatic garlic, and a luscious sauce makes this a perfect choice for both busy weeknights and elegant gatherings. With just a handful of high-quality ingredients, this recipe delivers bold flavors and a satisfying texture, making it a versatile favorite that pairs beautifully with various sides.
Ingredient Breakdown
Each ingredient in this dish plays a crucial role in achieving its creamy, savory depth. Choosing jumbo shrimp ensures a meaty texture that holds up well against the richness of the sauce, while properly deveining and removing the tails makes them easy to eat. A combination of vegetable oil and butter is used to sear the shrimp to golden perfection while adding richness to the sauce. Fresh garlic is essential for infusing the dish with its signature aroma, while white wine deglazes the pan, enhancing the depth of flavor. The base of the sauce consists of heavy cream and shredded white cheddar (or Parmesan cheese), creating a smooth and indulgent consistency. A touch of Italian seasoning balances the flavors, while salt and freshly ground black pepper enhance the overall taste. To finish, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and brightness, complementing the richness of the dish.
Step-by-Step Preparation Guide
Searing the Shrimp to Perfection
The key to perfectly cooked shrimp is starting with a hot pan. The oil should be shimmering before the shrimp are added to ensure a quick and even sear. Cooking them for just 2 to 3 minutes per side helps retain their juicy texture while developing a light golden crust. Proper seasoning at this stage enhances their natural sweetness.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Base
Once the shrimp are set aside, butter is melted into the same pan, allowing it to absorb the flavorful browned bits. Garlic is sautéed just until fragrant, ensuring it doesn’t burn. The addition of white wine lifts all the caramelized flavors from the pan, adding a subtle tang that balances the creaminess of the sauce.
Crafting the Creamy Sauce
Heavy cream is added gradually, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the butter and wine. The cheese is stirred in to create a smooth, luxurious consistency while being careful to maintain gentle heat to prevent separation. Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper bring everything together for a well-rounded flavor.
Combining the Ingredients
The cooked shrimp are reintroduced to the skillet, where they are gently tossed in the sauce to ensure they are fully coated. Allowing them to warm through for a minute or two helps meld all the flavors together. A final sprinkle of fresh parsley provides a contrast to the richness of the sauce, adding a light, herbaceous note.
Recipe Tips & Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing fresh vs. frozen shrimp and how to properly thaw them
Fresh shrimp offer the best texture, but frozen shrimp should be thawed overnight in the fridge or quickly in cold water.
Adjusting the sauce consistency by adding more cream or cheese
If the sauce is too thick, a splash of broth or cream can loosen it. If too thin, more cheese helps thicken it naturally.
How to avoid overcooking shrimp to maintain a tender, juicy bite
Shrimp cook quickly, so removing them from the heat as soon as they turn pink prevents them from becoming rubbery.
Making the dish ahead of time and reheating it without separating the sauce
Gently reheating over low heat with a splash of cream keeps the sauce smooth and prevents it from breaking.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but they should be fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best sear.
What can I substitute for white wine?
Chicken broth or a squeeze of lemon juice provides a similar depth of flavor without alcohol.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Parmesan, Gruyère, or Asiago all work well for a slightly different flavor profile.
How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
Simmering the sauce a little longer or adding an extra sprinkle of cheese helps it reach the perfect consistency.
What to Serve With This Recipe
Creamy garlic shrimp pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, as each soaks up the decadent sauce. For a well-rounded meal, consider serving it alongside sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli to add freshness and balance. A side of crusty baguette or garlic bread makes a great addition for dipping into the creamy sauce.
With its bold flavors and luxurious texture, creamy garlic shrimp is a dish that delivers both comfort and sophistication. Whether served over pasta for a hearty meal or paired with fresh vegetables for a lighter option, it remains an incredibly versatile recipe. Simple yet elegant, this is a go-to option when you want something quick, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying.
Ingredients
2 lbs jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons butter
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
1 tablespoon garlic, minced
2 tablespoons white wine
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (or grated Parmesan cheese)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully opaque. Season with salt and black pepper while cooking. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Pour in the white wine and stir well, allowing it to deglaze the pan and enhance the flavor, cooking for another minute.
Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and shredded white cheddar (or Parmesan). Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy garlic sauce until evenly coated and warmed through.
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes for a rich and satisfying meal.
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs jumbo shrimp peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons white wine
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup white cheddar cheese shredded (or grated Parmesan cheese)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley finely chopped
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully opaque. Season with salt and black pepper while cooking. Once done, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant, stirring continuously to prevent burning. Pour in the white wine and stir well, allowing it to deglaze the pan and enhance the flavor, cooking for another minute.
- Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and shredded white cheddar (or Parmesan). Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Continue stirring as the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy garlic sauce until evenly coated and warmed through.
- Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or creamy mashed potatoes for a rich and satisfying meal.
