Print

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe

5.2 from 29 reviews

A rich and flavorful Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic and paprika-infused cream sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and brightened with a touch of lemon juice. Perfect for a quick and elegant weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika

Cooking and Sauce Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking, preparing the pan for sautéing the shrimp.
  2. Sauté the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, then season evenly with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and sweet paprika. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
  3. Cook Garlic: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned, to build the sauce’s flavor base.
  4. Add Liquids: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring the garlic is evenly mixed into the sauce.
  5. Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and develops a creamy consistency.
  6. Return Shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, gently stirring to coat them thoroughly with the creamy garlic-paprika sauce.
  7. Finish with Lemon Juice: Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sauce, mixing well to add a bright and tangy contrast to the richness.
  8. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley evenly over the dish to add color and a fresh herbal note.
  9. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust with more salt, pepper, or paprika as desired to suit your preference.
  10. Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp and sauce to plates or a serving dish, serving immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • This dish pairs well with steamed rice, crusty bread, or cooked pasta to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less rich.
  • You can use chicken or vegetable broth based on dietary preferences or availability.
  • Ensure shrimp are fresh or fully thawed if using frozen for best texture and flavor.
  • Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, creamy garlic sauce, paprika, skillet dinner, easy shrimp recipe, quick dinner, garlic shrimp, creamy shrimp