Description
A quick and flavorful Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, smoky paprika and garlic cream sauce, perfect for a comforting and elegant weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Cooking Base
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish and Serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the smoked paprika and red pepper flakes, cooking for another 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Make it Creamy: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat, then stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
Notes
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Shrimp, creamy garlic paprika sauce, quick shrimp dinner, skillet shrimp, garlic shrimp recipe
