Succulent Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce

Name: Succulent Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat); 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup chicken broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Isabella

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This Succulent Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce is a dish that combines rich flavors and simple ingredients to create something extraordinary. The tender shrimp are coated in a luscious sauce with just the right amount of garlic, paprika, and a touch of spice. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a showstopper on a special occasion. The creamy, smoky sauce paired with the delicate shrimp makes every bite a true delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love how quick and easy this shrimp dish is to prepare while still feeling indulgent. The garlic-paprika sauce is incredibly flavorful with a perfect balance of savory, smoky, and a touch of heat. The creamy texture of the sauce envelops the shrimp beautifully, making it a rich and satisfying dish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to make, making it ideal for busy nights when I want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/4 cup chicken broth

Salt and pepper to taste

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

I add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Once done, I remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1 minute until fragrant.

I then sprinkle in both smoked paprika and regular paprika, as well as the red pepper flakes (if I want a little extra heat). I stir to combine the spices with the garlic.

Next, I pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

After that I stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

I return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy sauce. Then I cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat the shrimp through.

I season the dish with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add Veggies: For a complete meal, I like to toss in some vegetables, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers. It adds extra flavor and nutrition.

Spicy Kick: If I love heat, I can add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper to elevate the spice level.

Swap the Protein: While shrimp is the star of this dish, I can easily swap it with chicken or even scallops if I want a different seafood option.

Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free option, I can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The creamy sauce may thicken slightly upon refrigeration, but it still tastes great the next day.

Reheating: To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen up the sauce and prevent it from drying out.

Related Recipes:

Creamy Garlic Shrimp

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I don’t recommend making this dish ahead of time since shrimp cook quickly and are best served fresh. However, I can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the shrimp just before serving for a quicker meal.

What can I serve with this dish?

This creamy shrimp dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or even a side of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, I sometimes serve it over a bed of sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles.

Can I freeze the shrimp in creamy garlic-paprika sauce?

While it’s possible to freeze the shrimp in the sauce, I find that shrimp can lose some of their texture upon thawing. If I want to freeze leftovers, I recommend freezing the shrimp separately and reheating them with the sauce when I’m ready to eat.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! I can use frozen shrimp, but I make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the sauce.

Can I make this recipe with less cream?

If I prefer a lighter version, I can reduce the amount of cream and substitute with chicken broth for a thinner, less creamy sauce. However, it won’t be as rich and indulgent.

Conclusion

This succulent shrimp in creamy garlic-paprika sauce is one of my favorite dishes because it’s quick, flavorful, and feels indulgent without being complicated. The creamy sauce, smoky paprika, and tender shrimp create a delightful combination that is sure to impress. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, I always know this dish will be a hit.

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