Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe
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
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
- 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.
- Mince Garlic: Finely mince the garlic cloves to release maximum aroma and flavor to the cream sauce.
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm before cooking the shrimp.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently to coat each piece thoroughly with the creamy garlic sauce.
- 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