Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Introduction

This creamy garlic-paprika shrimp skillet is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Tender shrimp cooked in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with a hint of smoky paprika makes every bite delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season evenly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Step 2: Finely mince the garlic cloves.
3. Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
4. Step 4: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Step 5: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
6. Step 6: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Step 7: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them evenly with the creamy garlic sauce.
8. Step 8: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot.

Tips & Variations

• For extra depth, add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you like a little heat.
• Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream for a dairy-free version with a subtle sweetness.
• Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage

Store leftover shrimp skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid microwaving at high heat, which may cause the sauce to separate.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

What can I substitute for smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works fine, though it will lack the smoky flavor. You could also add a tiny pinch of cumin for a similar warmth.

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 60 reviews

This creamy garlic-paprika shrimp skillet recipe features perfectly seared shrimp tossed in a rich and flavorful garlic-infused cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley. It’s a quick and easy stovetop dish that delivers bold smoky paprika flavor balanced with the smoothness of heavy cream, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

• Author: Mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garlic and Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels and season evenly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to infuse them with smoky flavor.
2. Mince Garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves to release maximum aroma and flavor to the cream sauce.
3. Heat Olive Oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm before cooking the shrimp.
4. Sear Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink, opaque, and are nicely seared. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
5. Saute Garlic: In the same skillet with residual oil and flavor, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
6. Prepare Creamy Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, stirring continuously and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly to coat the shrimp evenly.
7. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the creamy garlic sauce.
8. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish to add a burst of freshness and serve immediately while hot.

Notes

• Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to keep them tender and juicy.
• For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness if desired.
• Use fresh parsley for the best flavor and color in the garnish.

Keywords: shrimp skillet, creamy shrimp, garlic paprika shrimp, stovetop shrimp recipe, quick shrimp dinner