A delicious, restaurant-style creamy garlic butter shrimp dish made with juicy seasoned shrimp, fresh baby spinach, sweet cherry tomatoes, garlic, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce. This easy one-pan recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
– 1½ lbs (680 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– ½ teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Creamy Sauce:
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– ½ cup chicken broth
– ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 3 cups fresh baby spinach
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
– ¼ teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Garnishing:
– 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley
– Extra grated Parmesan cheese
– Freshly cracked black pepper
– Lemon wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Place the shrimp in a large bowl.
3. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
4. Toss everything together until the shrimp are evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
1. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer.
3. Cook for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, until pink, opaque, and lightly golden.
4. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
5. Remove the shrimp and transfer them to a plate. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Base
1. Reduce the heat to medium.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the same skillet.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes until they begin to soften.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
1. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream.
2. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
3. Add Italian seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and a little salt.
4. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
5. Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Add the Spinach
1. Add the fresh baby spinach to the skillet.
2. Stir gently until the spinach wilts into the creamy sauce.
3. Add fresh lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Step 6: Return the Shrimp
1. Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet.
2. Gently toss to coat each shrimp with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce.
3. Simmer for another 1–2 minutes, just until the shrimp are heated through.
4. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
1. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top.
2. Add extra grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Finish with freshly cracked black pepper.
4. Serve warm with lemon wedges.
Recipe Information
– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 20 minutes
– Total Time: 35 minutes
– Servings: 4
– Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
– Course: Main Course / Dinner
– Cooking Method: Stovetop
– Difficulty: Easy
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic shrimp tastes wonderful with:
– Steamed white or brown rice.
– Garlic butter pasta or fettuccine.
– Cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.
– Crusty garlic bread for dipping into the creamy sauce.
– Roasted asparagus or broccoli.
– A fresh cucumber and tomato salad.
– Zucchini noodles for a lighter meal.
Nutritional Information
Estimated values per serving, based on 4 servings.
Nutrient Amount
Calories 490 kcal
Protein 39 g
Total Fat 34 g
Saturated Fat 19 g
Carbohydrates 9 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 4 g
Cholesterol 290 mg
Sodium 750 mg
Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on shrimp size, cream, Parmesan brand, and ingredient quantities.
Helpful Cooking Tips
– Use fresh shrimp: Large or jumbo shrimp work best because they remain juicy and tender.
– Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
– Use freshly grated Parmesan: It melts more smoothly than many pre-shredded varieties.
– Keep the heat gentle: Avoid boiling the cream sauce, as this can affect its texture.
– Adjust the thickness: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth.
– Add extra flavor: A little lemon zest gives the sauce a fresh, delicious finish.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Freezing is not recommended because cream sauces can separate and shrimp may become rubbery.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of milk or chicken broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid overheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Frozen shrimp work perfectly. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator or under cold running water, then pat dry before seasoning.
Q2: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?
Absolutely! You can substitute half-and-half or evaporated milk. The sauce will be lighter and may be slightly less thick.
Q3: Can I use kale instead of spinach?
Yes. Baby kale is a great alternative. Allow a few extra minutes for it to soften.
Q4: Can I make this recipe spicy?
Yes! Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a little hot sauce for a spicy garlic shrimp dish.
Q5: What type of shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo peeled and deveined shrimp are ideal. Fresh or properly thawed frozen shrimp both work well.
Q6: How do I prevent the cream sauce from becoming too thin?
Let it simmer gently for a few minutes before adding the shrimp. Parmesan cheese also helps thicken the sauce.
Q7: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the garlic, wash the spinach, halve the tomatoes, and season the shrimp ahead of time. For the best texture, cook the dish just before serving.
Q8: Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes! It contains approximately 9 grams of carbohydrates per serving. Serve it with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.
Q9: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. You can add a little cornstarch mixed with cold water to help thicken it.
Q10: How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp should turn pink and opaque with a gentle C-shape. For food safety, cook until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).