Last Updated on July 2, 2025 by recipeinspire
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How to Whip Up Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 Mins: 3 Easy Steps!
Have you ever found yourself craving a quick gourmet dinner but felt overwhelmed by the thought of cooking? You’re not alone! Many people assume that creating a delicious and impressive meal takes hours in the kitchen. However, with our foolproof guide, mastering the art of Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 mins is not only possible but incredibly satisfying.
Imagine indulging in a plate of succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy garlic sauce after just 15 minutes of cooking. Let’s dive into this flavorsome treat!
Ingredients List

For the perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 mins, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Substitutions: You can replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter version or use low-sodium chicken broth instead of butter for a healthier option.
Timing
Preparation for this dish takes approximately 5 minutes. With a cooking time of about 10 minutes, you can have a gourmet dinner ready in only 15 minutes—a whopping 20% less time than the average dinner recipe!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing.
Step 2: Create the Creamy Sauce
Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma—this is where the magic begins!
Next, pour in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and stir. Reduce the heat to low and add 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, whisking until the cheese has melted and the sauce is velvety.
Tip: For a bit of heat, consider sprinkling in some red pepper flakes at this stage.
Step 3: Combine & Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet, coating them in the creamy sauce. Allow everything to cook together for another 1-2 minutes to marry the flavors.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side for a delightful pop of brightness.
Nutritional Information
This dish boasts valuable nutrients:
- Calories: Approximately 320 per serving
- Protein: 26 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Fat: 22 grams
Adding protein-packed shrimp makes this recipe not only delicious but also a great source of nourishment.
Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
To enhance your dish’s nutritional profile, consider the following swaps:
- Substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist and reduced calories.
- Use whole grain pasta or zoodles (zucchini noodles) to serve alongside for added fiber.
- Incorporate vegetables, such as spinach or bell peppers, into the sauce for extra vitamins.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy garlic shrimp can be served in numerous enticing ways:
- Pair with a side of garlic bread for a classic touch.
- Serve over a bed of wild rice or quinoa for a robust meal.
- For a light option, create a refreshing salad topped with the shrimp and creamy sauce.
Tip: A glass of white wine complements this dish beautifully and enhances the overall dining experience!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the best chefs can make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overdoing it can lead to a rubbery texture.
- Neglecting the sauce: Ensure your sauce is well-seasoned and to your taste; this enhances the dish’s overall flavor.
- Using pre-peeled shrimp: For optimal quality, buy fresh shrimp and peel them yourself to maintain natural sweetness and flavor.
Storing Tips for the Recipe
If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To maintain freshness, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Tip: Avoid reheating more than once to preserve the quality of shrimp and sauce.
Print
How to Whip Up Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 Mins: 3 Easy Steps!
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp recipe is ready in just 15 minutes! Tender shrimp are cooked in a flavorful garlic butter sauce enriched with cream and Parmesan, making a quick, elegant meal perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Cooked pasta or rice, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter. Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine: Return shrimp to skillet and toss in the creamy sauce. Cook for another minute to warm through.
- Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smooth sauce. Avoid overcooking shrimp to keep them tender. For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before the cream.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 185mg
Keywords: creamy garlic shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, easy dinner, shrimp pasta
Conclusion
In just 15 minutes, you have a delightful, gourmet meal that’s sure to impress anyone at your table. This recipe for Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 mins is not only simple to follow but allows for adjustments based on your preferences or dietary needs.
Why wait? Gather your ingredients and whip up this delicious treat today! Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below or explore other incredible recipes on our site.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I have dietary restrictions?
You can use coconut milk or Greek yogurt as excellent alternatives to heavy cream, depending on your desired taste and texture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep all your ingredients beforehand. Just cook and assemble when you’re ready to eat!
How can I make this dish spicier?
Feel free to add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the creamy sauce to kick it up a notch!
Dive into this flavorsome treat, and enjoy the gourmet experience of Creamy Garlic Shrimp in 15 mins!