If there’s one dish that’ll make you feel like you’re dining seaside on the Mediterranean coast, it’s Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce. Imagine plump shrimp bathed in a luscious sauce bursting with smoky paprika, sweet cream, and zesty garlic — every bite feels special, but the best part is how quickly and simply it all comes together. Whether you want to indulge midweek or wow your friends at a dinner party, this Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce will become your new dinner hero.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is how a few simple, quality ingredients come together to create something seriously spectacular. Each one plays a role, from boosting the creaminess to adding pops of color and flavor that make this dish sing.
- Olive oil: Use a good olive oil for added richness and to help the butter brown beautifully without burning.
- Butter: Adds a layer of creamy flavor and helps the shrimp develop those lovely golden edges.
- Large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Opt for fresh or thawed frozen shrimp to keep the texture perfectly juicy.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning upfront ensures every bite is perfectly flavorful.
- Garlic (minced): Four cloves for pure aromatic bliss — don’t skimp!
- Smoked paprika: This is the signature spice, adding deep, smoky notes to the sauce.
- Sweet paprika: Balances the smokiness with a hint of sweetness and beautiful color.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For that little tickle of heat (use as much or as little as you’re comfortable with).
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and melds the flavors for a well-rounded sauce.
- Heavy cream: The key to a luxurious, velvety sauce that clings perfectly to shrimp.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory richness and a gentle nutty flavor to the sauce.
- Lemon juice: Brightens everything up and cuts through the creaminess just enough.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Fresh, vibrant, and the finishing touch your creation deserves.
How to Make Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter has melted, season your shrimp with salt and pepper and lay them in the pan in a single layer. Give them about 1–2 minutes on each side — you’re looking for just-pink, tender shrimp with those gorgeous golden edges. Don’t overcook them! Remove them from the skillet and set aside, but leave all those tasty bits behind for the sauce.
Step 2: Build That Flavor Base
Drop the heat to medium, and add your minced garlic, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and (if you’re feeling bold) red pepper flakes right into the same skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds just until the garlic is fragrant and the spices bloom, filling your kitchen with the irresistible scent that defines Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce.
Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in your chicken broth and grab a wooden spoon. Scrape up every little browned bit stuck to the pan — that’s pure flavor gold. Let this mixture simmer for about 2 minutes, marrying the spices and deepening the backbone of your sauce.
Step 4: Make It Creamy
Time for the magic: add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring as the sauce comes together. It should thicken gently after about 3–4 minutes, turning silky and rich. Give it a taste and adjust the salt if needed. Finally, stir in that vibrant squeeze of fresh lemon juice for that signature bright finish.
Step 5: Toss and Finish
Return your cooked shrimp (along with any juices they left behind) to the skillet. Gently toss everything so each shrimp is enrobed in sauce. Let it all simmer for another minute, just to bring everything together, then shower with chopped fresh parsley. Serve your Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce piping hot and glory in your culinary triumph!
How to Serve Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the joy a finishing touch brings! Freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, while a zest of lemon or extra sprinkle of smoked paprika can take your Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce over the top, both visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
This dish absolutely begs to be paired with creamy mashed potatoes, pillowy rice, or even pasta — anything to soak up that dreamy sauce. Crusty bread is practically mandatory for sopping up every last drop, and a crisp green salad makes a perfect, refreshing counterpoint.
Creative Ways to Present
Try piling your Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce atop crostini as a decadent appetizer, or nestle the shrimp and sauce into individual ramekins for a dinner party starter. For a fun twist, serve the shrimp over creamy polenta or stuff them into warm pita breads with a fistful of greens for a Mediterranean sandwich you won’t soon forget.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, leftover Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making the leftovers almost as good as day one!
Freezing
Cream-based sauces are notoriously tricky to freeze because they can sometimes split when thawed. While you can freeze the sauce and shrimp together for convenience, expect a slightly altered texture after reheating. If you choose to freeze, do so in individual portions for up to one month, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
For best results, reheat shrimp and sauce together gently over low heat on the stovetop, stirring frequently. Avoid high heat as it can turn the shrimp rubbery and make the cream sauce separate. If needed, add a splash of cream or broth to bring the sauce back to silky perfection.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely — just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them very dry before cooking. This prevents excess liquid from diluting your Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce and helps achieve that golden sear on the shrimp.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’d like a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk, though the sauce will be less thick and rich. For the classic luxurious texture, heavy cream really does work best!
Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Try swapping the shrimp for meaty mushrooms or cubes of firm tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavors of the creamy garlic-paprika sauce work wonderfully with these swaps.
What type Main Course
Smoked paprika brings the deepest, most complex flavor and gorgeous color. If you don’t have smoked, regular sweet paprika can be used, but the smoky essence is what makes Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce so special.
Can I make it ahead for a dinner party?
You can prep the sauce a few hours ahead and gently reheat it just before serving. Cook the shrimp right before dinner so they stay perfectly tender and juicy. It’s a great way to entertain without last-minute kitchen stress!
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce enough — it’s a true example of how simple ingredients and inspired flavors can produce something unforgettable. Give it a try, customize it to your taste, and don’t be surprised if your family requests it again and again. Enjoy every creamy, garlicky, paprika-kissed bite!
Print
Shrimp in Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of succulent shrimp coated in a luxurious creamy garlic-paprika sauce. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce:
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon sweet paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ⅓ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Cook shrimp until pink, then set aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté garlic, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, and red pepper flakes. Add chicken broth, cream, and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine: Stir in lemon juice, add back shrimp, and simmer briefly. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Serve over rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- You can use regular paprika instead of smoked for a different flavor profile.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *