Creamy Garlic Shrimp
If you’re craving something quick, indulgent, and irresistibly creamy, look no further than creamy garlic shrimp. This easy-to-make recipe is a weeknight dinner lifesaver, combining plump, juicy shrimp with a rich garlic cream sauce that clings to every bite.
It’s a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite seafood bistro — but guess what? You can whip it up in under 20 minutes with just a few simple pantry staples.
Why Creamy Garlic Shrimp Is a Must-Try
There’s a reason why creamy garlic shrimp has become a fan favorite in kitchens everywhere. Here’s what makes it special:
- Ready in just 15 minutes, including prep
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Deliciously rich and garlicky cream sauce
- Versatile: serve it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread
- Perfect for weeknights, date nights, or impressing guests
Before diving into the skillet, make sure your shrimp are prepped properly. If you’re new to handling shrimp, here’s a helpful guide on how to devein shrimp that walks you through the process safely and efficiently.
Ingredients You’ll Need (and Smart Swaps) For Creamy Garlic Shrimp
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need — along with easy substitutions:
🦐 Main Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or olive oil/avocado oil)
- 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
🧄 Garlic Cream Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced (about 3–4 cloves)
- 2 tablespoons white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; or use chicken broth)
- 1½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or a mix of basil, oregano, and thyme)
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese (or grated Parmesan)
🌿 Garnish:
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (or chives, basil, etc.)
Step-by-Step: How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp
This one-pan meal is as easy as it is satisfying. Here’s how to do it:
🔥 1. Sear the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Pat shrimp dry (this helps them sear instead of steam).
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
- Remove from the pan and set aside.
🧄 2. Sauté Garlic in Butter
- In the same pan, add 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant — don’t let the garlic burn.
🍷 3. Deglaze with Wine
- Add 2 tbsp white wine (or broth) and scrape the pan to lift the flavorful browned bits.
- Let simmer for 1 minute to reduce slightly.
🥄 4. Make the Cream Sauce
- Add 1½ cups heavy cream, 1 tsp Italian seasoning, and ½ cup cheese.
- Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
- Lower heat to medium to avoid curdling or separation.
🍤 5. Return Shrimp to Sauce
- Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet.
- Toss to coat evenly in the garlicky cream sauce.
- Simmer for another minute to warm through.
🌿 6. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately with your favorite base — pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.
🧠 Pro Tips for Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp That’s Tender, Not Tough
Overcooked shrimp is one of the fastest ways to ruin a delicious dish. The good news? It’s easy to avoid rubbery results with a few pro techniques. Follow these tips to keep your shrimp juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time.
✅ 1. Don’t Overcook
Shrimp cook incredibly fast—usually 2–3 minutes per side is all you need. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat. Any longer, and you’ll end up with a rubbery texture.
✅ 2. Use Medium-High Heat
Cooking shrimp over medium-high heat ensures a quick sear and prevents steaming. Searing locks in moisture and gives you that light golden crust that’s so delicious.
✅ 3. Pat Shrimp Dry Before Cooking
Moisture is the enemy of caramelization. Blot your shrimp with a paper towel to help them brown instead of steam. This small step makes a big difference in flavor and texture.
✅ 4. Season Shrimp Before, Not After
Toss your shrimp in salt and pepper (or marinade) before they hit the pan. Pre-seasoning helps enhance the flavor while the shrimp cooks, not after.
✅ 5. Finish Cooking in Sauce (Not Start)
If you’re making creamy garlic shrimp, always cook the shrimp first, set them aside, and then return them to the pan once the sauce is ready. This method allows the shrimp to reheat gently without overcooking.
With these simple tips, your shrimp dinners will always be plump, juicy, and perfectly cooked—just like the pros.
Now that you’ve mastered the basic creamy garlic shrimp recipe, it’s time to take it up a notch. From creative flavor variations to perfect pairings and expert storage tips, this second half of the article will turn you into a garlic shrimp pro.

🎨 Delicious Variations of Creamy Garlic Shrimp
One of the best things about this dish is how flexible it is. Here are some flavorful ways to make it your own:
🔥 Spice It Up
- Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
- Stir in sriracha or a splash of hot sauce for bold flavor.
🇮🇹 Go Tuscan Style
- Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese.
- Swap Italian seasoning for fresh basil and thyme.
🌽 Add Veggies
- Toss in sautéed zucchini, asparagus, or mushrooms.
- Stir in baby spinach just before serving for a nutritious boost.
🐟 Switch Proteins
- Use the same creamy garlic sauce with:
- Scallops
- Seared salmon fillets
- Chicken breast
🍝 Turn It Into Pasta
- Serve over linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine.
- Thin the sauce with reserved pasta water to help it coat the noodles.
A rich and creamy chowder made with sweet corn, fresh crab, and flavorful spices, inspired by Bobby Flay’s recipe.
🍽️ What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Whether you’re going for cozy or classy, the right sides can make your shrimp dish shine. Try these favorites:
🥖 Hearty Bases
- Garlic mashed potatoes
- Steamed white rice or coconut rice
- Polenta or grits
🍝 Pasta Perfection
- Toss shrimp and sauce with:
- Fettuccine
- Angel hair
- Penne (for a baked version)
🥦 Veggie Sides
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus
- Zucchini noodles (for a low-carb version)
- Spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette
🥐 Bread for Dunking
- Crusty baguette
- Homemade garlic breadsticks
- Sourdough toast
If you’re unsure how to prep shrimp properly before pairing, check out this shrimp deveining guide to avoid rookie mistakes.
🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips
Creamy sauces and seafood can be tricky to store — but with a few tips, your leftovers will taste just as good the next day.
🥡 Storing Leftovers
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Do not freeze — the cream sauce may split or turn grainy.
🔥 Reheating
- Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat.
- Add a splash of water or cream to thin the sauce if it thickens.
- Avoid microwaving — it can make the shrimp rubbery.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Here are the top search questions (and answers) about creamy garlic shrimp, straight from Google’s “People Also Ask” section.
Q1: What is the secret to juicy shrimp?
The key is to not overcook them! Shrimp cook fast — about 2-3 minutes per side — and should be removed as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Also, pat them dry before searing to lock in moisture.
Q2: How do you keep shrimp moist while cooking?
- Cook over medium-high heat
- Don’t crowd the pan (avoid steaming)
- Use butter or olive oil for added moisture
- Finish them in a sauce like this creamy garlic blend
Q3: What’s in a classic creamy garlic sauce?
- Butter
- Garlic (minced)
- White wine or broth
- Heavy cream
- Cheese (Parmesan or cheddar)
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and herbs like Italian seasoning
Q4: Can I make creamy garlic shrimp without cream?
Yes! Substitute with:
- Coconut milk for a dairy-free option
- Greek yogurt for a tangy twist (add off heat)
- Half-and-half for a lighter texture
Q5: What vegetables pair well with shrimp?
- Zucchini, broccoli, asparagus
- Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes
- Serve raw in salads or sautéed in the skillet with your shrimp
Q6: How do I make creamy garlic shrimp pasta?
- Boil pasta separately and reserve 1 cup of pasta water
- Toss pasta into skillet with shrimp and sauce
- Use the pasta water to loosen the sauce
- Finish with more cheese and parsley
✅ Conclusion: A Restaurant-Quality Dish You Can Make Anytime
If you’re looking for a dish that delivers bold flavor, creamy comfort, and weeknight simplicity, this creamy garlic shrimp recipe checks every box. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a meal that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant kitchen—without the price tag or the prep hassle.
Whether you’re serving it over buttery mashed potatoes, tossing it with fettuccine, or enjoying it with a side of crusty garlic bread, this dish is endlessly versatile and always satisfying. Best of all, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected dinner guests.
You’ve now got the tools—from expert cooking tips to creative variations—to make this recipe your own. Want it spicier? Creamier? More veggie-packed? Go for it!
If you tried this creamy garlic shrimp recipe, we’d love to hear your feedback. Leave a comment below or tag us on social media to show off your dish. Don’t forget to share it with friends and family who love easy, flavorful meals.
Happy cooking—and here’s to shrimp that’s always tender, never tough!