If you’re looking for a dish that’s fast, easy, and absolutely bursting with flavor, you need to try Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp. This recipe is one of those rare meals that feels restaurant-worthy, yet it comes together in under 20 minutes right in your kitchen.
With juicy, tender shrimp coated in a rich, garlicky, buttery cream sauce, this dish is an instant crowd-pleaser. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce — no one will leave the table hungry.
🍤 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Quick & Easy: Done in 20 minutes, start to finish.
✔️ Rich and Creamy: A sauce so good you’ll want to eat it with a spoon.
✔️ Versatile: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables.
✔️ Simple Ingredients: Everything you need is easy to find at the store.
📝 Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this irresistible creamy shrimp dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup chicken broth (or seafood broth)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: Red pepper flakes, for a little heat
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, do this first. Pat them dry with paper towels, then season lightly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer, cooking for about 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan — this adds tons of flavor. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a dash of pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Finish with Shrimp and Lemon
Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing them gently in the sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Let everything cook together for another 1–2 minutes, just until the shrimp are heated through and well coated.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, spooning extra sauce over the top.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Pasta: Fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti are perfect for catching that creamy sauce.
- Rice: Serve it over white or brown rice for a hearty, comforting dish.
- Vegetables: Keep it light by pairing with steamed broccoli, asparagus, or sautéed spinach.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of the garlic butter sauce.
💡 Tips for Success
🔸 Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp: Either works — just make sure frozen shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry.
🔸 Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
🔸 Fresh Garlic is Key: It’s the foundation of the flavor in this dish — fresh makes all the difference.
🔸 Balance the Creaminess: The lemon juice cuts the richness and brightens the sauce perfectly.
❓ FAQs
Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes — the sauce will be a bit lighter, but still delicious.
Can I add other seafood?
Absolutely! Scallops, mussels, or clams would work beautifully in this creamy sauce.
How long does it keep?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and reheated gently.
Is this recipe spicy?
Not as written — but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is proof that simple, everyday ingredients can come together to create something truly irresistible. In just 20 minutes, you can serve up a dish that tastes like it came straight from your favorite restaurant.
Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or any time you need a little indulgence, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again. It’s easy, impressive, and downright delicious — what more could you ask for?
