Zesty Shrimp in Cream Sauce Recipe

Sometimes I crave a dinner that feels fancy but takes almost no effort to throw together after a long day. This Shrimp in Cream Sauce satisfies that need with its rich texture and savory garlic flavor.

You might be surprised at how quickly this elegant dish comes together using just a handful of pantry staples. It is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when I want something comforting yet light.

Why This Shrimp in Cream Sauce Will Become Your Go-To Recipe

The combination of tender seafood and a velvety parmesan sauce creates an irresistible flavor profile that feels like a restaurant meal. I make this whenever I need a satisfying dinner that impresses without requiring hours of work.

You only need one skillet and twenty minutes to get this impressive dish on the table from start to finish. It saves me so much time on cleanup while still delivering maximum comfort and taste.

This recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or even fresh vegetables. I love how the creamy sauce clings to everything it touches for the perfect savory bite.

If you enjoyed this savory seafood dish, you should try my Quick Garlic Butter Chicken Fried Rice Recipe for another fast meal. For a bright and sweet finish to your dinner, the Quick Lemon Posset Recipe is an absolute must.

Everything You Need for Perfect Shrimp in Cream Sauce

Here are the simple items I gather to make this dish:

• Unsalted butter: Used to sear the seafood and start the flavorful base.
• Raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, tails on or off depending on your preference.
• Sea salt: Essential for bringing out the natural flavors of the dish.
• Black pepper: Adds a mild heat and earthy note to the cream sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic provides the best aromatic punch.
• Heavy cream: The foundation for the rich, velvety sauce texture.
• Cayenne pepper: Just a pinch adds a subtle warmth without making it spicy.
• Parmesan cheese: Finely grated cheese melts best to thicken the sauce.
• Parsley: Freshly chopped for a pop of color and herbal freshness.

My Method for Shrimp in Cream Sauce

Let’s get cooking!

1. I start by placing a large skillet over medium-high heat and melting the butter until it bubbles. While the pan heats up, I quickly season the raw shrimp with half of the salt and black pepper to ensure they are flavorful throughout. I add the shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer and sear them for about 4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, then I immediately transfer them to a plate and cover with foil to keep warm.
2. Using the same skillet to keep all those delicious juices, I toss in the minced garlic. I sauté the garlic constantly for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant, being very careful not to let it brown or burn. This quick step releases the aromatics that form the backbone of the Shrimp in Cream Sauce.
3. Next, I lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream along with the cayenne pepper and the remaining salt and black pepper. I bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while stirring, which usually takes about one minute. Once the liquid is hot, I stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue mixing gently for another 30 seconds until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
4. Finally, I return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices from the plate back into the skillet. I toss everything together gently for about one minute just to reheat the seafood and coat it thoroughly in the rich sauce. To finish, I sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the top and serve it immediately while it is hot and creamy.

Pro Tips for Shrimp in Cream Sauce

Make sure you have all your ingredients measured and ready before turning on the stove because this recipe moves very fast. I always grate my own block of parmesan cheese to ensure it melts smoothly into the hot cream without clumping.

Be careful not to overcook the seafood during the initial sear since it will cook further when added back to the sauce. I look for an opaque pink color and immediately remove the Shrimp in Cream Sauce components from the heat.

If the sauce becomes too thick while simmering, stir in a splash of broth or pasta water to loosen it up. I find that adjusting the consistency right before serving keeps the texture silky and perfect for coating noodles.

Best Ways to Enjoy Shrimp in Cream Sauce

This dish is absolutely wonderful served over a bed of al dente linguine or fluffy white rice to soak up the sauce. I also enjoy pairing it with crusty bread to scoop up every last drop of the creamy mixture.

For a lighter low-carb option, try spooning the Shrimp in Cream Sauce over zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower. The rich flavors balance perfectly with fresh green vegetables like roasted asparagus or sautéed spinach.

Follow me on Pinterest for more easy, comforting recipes that make weeknight cooking a breeze!

Shrimp in Cream Sauce Recipe

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• Author: Amelia Bryan
• Total Time: 20 min
• Yield: 2 servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A rich and creamy shrimp dinner featuring garlic and parmesan that comes together in just 20 minutes.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 6 tablespoons heavy cream
• 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt, divided
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, divided
• 1 pinch cayenne pepper

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Instructions

1. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with half the salt and black pepper. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and cover with foil.
2. Add the minced garlic to the same skillet and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the heavy cream, cayenne, and remaining salt and pepper. Simmer for about 1 minute while stirring.
4. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix gently for 30 seconds until melted and smooth.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat for 1 minute to warm through, then garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried parsley works in a pinch. For a thinner sauce, add a splash of chicken broth or pasta water.

• Prep Time: 8 min
• Resting Time:
• Cook Time: 12 min
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 400
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 751 mg
• Fat: 26 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg

Keywords: Shrimp in Cream Sauce Recipe, creamy garlic shrimp, easy shrimp dinner, 20 minute meal, keto shrimp recipe