Dinner

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine); 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Byluca Carter February 5, 2026February 5, 2026

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Introduction

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Skillet is a quick and delicious dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and sure to impress.

The image shows a black skillet filled with large shrimp cooked in a creamy sauce. The shrimp are orange with a slight char and are arranged in a circle, all partially submerged in a light yellow creamy sauce that has some green herbs scattered across it. The sauce looks smooth and rich, and small flecks of red seasoning are visible on the shrimp and sauce, adding color contrast. The entire dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic (minced)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth (or white wine)

1 teaspoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Pour in the chicken broth or white wine and bring to a simmer. Cook for about 2 minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan cheese. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir to coat with the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, marinate the shrimp briefly in lemon juice and garlic before cooking.

Swap chicken broth for white wine to add a subtle depth to the sauce.
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for a vibrant twist.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, but cook gently to avoid curdling.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refreshed with a splash of cream or broth when reheating.

How to Serve

A close-up of a black pan filled with cooked shrimp in a creamy yellow sauce. The shrimp are orange with a slight char and are spread evenly across the pan, each coated with a sprinkle of green herbs and small red spice flakes. The creamy sauce has a smooth texture with green herb bits scattered throughout, creating a rich and fresh look. The pan rests on a white marbled surface with a white cloth partially visible beneath it. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water into the sauce.

What can I serve with creamy garlic shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread that can soak up the rich sauce. Steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad also complement it nicely for a balanced meal.