Imagine a dish so creamy and comforting that it hugs you from the inside while the rich flavors dance on your taste buds! This Shrimp in Cream Sauce recipe combines tender shrimp with a luscious sauce that’s not too heavy but still feels indulgent. Imagine the aroma of garlic mingling with rich butter, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in your kitchen. Best of all, this dish is surprisingly easy to make and uses simple ingredients you might already have at home. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this creamy delight is a total game changer on your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love Shrimp in Cream Sauce (Creamy, Easy, and Cozy)
This Shrimp in Cream Sauce is a winner for so many reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to whip up—perfect for those busy nights. The creamy texture makes each bite feel luxurious, but you’ll be surprised to learn it’s lighter than it seems. Whether you’re having a family dinner or cooking for friends, this dish is sure to impress without demanding too much effort on your part. Plus, it’s versatile; pair it with rice, pasta, or a simple salad, and you’re all set! Here are a few reasons to dive right into this recipe:
- Speed: Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Texture: Smooth and creamy without being overly heavy.
- Pantry-Friendly: Uses simple ingredients that are likely in your kitchen.
- Meal-Prep: Great for make-ahead meals; just reheat and enjoy.
- Dietary Notes: Gluten-free and can be adjusted to be dairy-free.
Key Ingredients for Shrimp in Cream Sauce
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Adds richness and a lovely, buttery flavor.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star ingredient; juicy and tender.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and depth.
- 2 garlic cloves (minced): Brings an aromatic punch that complements the shrimp.
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream: Makes the sauce velvety and rich.
- Pinch cayenne: A dash of spice that elevates the dish.
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (grated): Melts into the sauce for a deliciously nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped; or 1 teaspoon of dried parsley): Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Ready to cook? See the recipe card for exact measurements below!
How to Make Shrimp in Cream Sauce
Phase 1 – Prep
- Gather your ingredients and utensils. You’ll need a skillet or frying pan and a spatula.
- Peel and devein the shrimp if not prepped. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Minimize any distractions! Prep your workspace for a smooth cooking experience.
Phase 2 – Cook/Assemble
- Heat the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Wait until it’s melted and bubbly.
- Add the shrimp to the pan. Sprinkle half the salt and pepper over them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in the cayenne and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want a little more salt or pepper!
Phase 3 – Serve
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve the shrimp in cream sauce over pasta, rice, or your preferred side.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch and enjoy your delicious creation!
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Swap: Use crab or chicken instead of shrimp for a different protein twist.
- Technique Improvement: Ensure the shrimp are dry before cooking to get that perfect sear.
- Storage/Time Saver: Make a bigger batch and refrigerate! Shrimp in cream sauce is great for next-day meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Cooking the shrimp too long: This can make them rubbery rather than tender. Only cook until they turn pink; it usually takes just a few minutes.
Not seasoning enough: If you skip the salt and pepper, your dish may taste flat. Don’t forget to add seasoning little by little to enhance the flavors.
Overheating the cream: Heavy cream can separate if cooked too hot. Always simmer on medium or low heat to keep it creamy.
Recipe Variations
- Gluten-free: Serve over gluten-free pasta or rice.
- Dairy-free: Substitute heavy cream for coconut cream and skip the Parmesan.
- Spicy: Add more cayenne or toss in crushed red pepper flakes.
- Herbal: Mix in fresh basil or dill for added flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp in Cream Sauce
- Best Pairings: Serve over pasta, rice, or with a side of steamed veggies.
- Toppings: A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors.
- Garnishes: Fresh parsley or chives add a beautiful touch!
Make Ahead & Storage
Can I Meal Prep This?
Yes! This dish stores well and can be made ahead to save time during the week.
Storing Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezing
Although freezing is possible, it may change the texture of the shrimp. Best eaten fresh!
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring gently. Microwave if in a hurry, stirring every 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Just thaw them completely before cooking.
How to make it extra creamy without cream? Use a bit of cream cheese instead for a rich texture!
Can I double it? Absolutely! Just increase the ingredients in the same proportions.
How to fix a too-thick sauce? Add a splash of water or broth and stir until you reach your desired consistency.
Ready to indulge in this Shrimp in Cream Sauce? With its creamy, flavorful sauce and tender shrimp, this dish is a delightful addition to your dinner routine. Don’t forget to rate and comment on your culinary adventure, and check out our related pasta and seafood recipes for more tasty ideas!
Shrimp in Cream Sauce
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter Adds richness and a lovely, buttery flavor.
- 1 pound raw shrimp (peeled and deveined) The star ingredient; juicy and tender.
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Adds a hint of heat and depth.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced) Brings an aromatic punch that complements the shrimp.
- 6 tablespoons heavy cream Makes the sauce velvety and rich.
- pinch cayenne A dash of spice that elevates the dish.
- 3 tablespoons Parmesan cheese (grated) Melts into the sauce for a deliciously nutty flavor.
- 2 tablespoons parsley (chopped) Adds freshness and a pop of color.
Instructions
Preparation
- Gather your ingredients and utensils. You’ll need a skillet or frying pan and a spatula.
- Peel and devein the shrimp if not prepped. Rinse under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Minimize any distractions! Prep your workspace for a smooth cooking experience.
Cooking
- Heat the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Wait until it’s melted and bubbly.
- Add the shrimp to the pan. Sprinkle half the salt and pepper over them. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
- Pour in the heavy cream. Stir gently and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Mix in the cayenne and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. You might want a little more salt or pepper!
Serving
- Remove the pan from heat and stir in the chopped parsley.
- Serve the shrimp in cream sauce over pasta, rice, or your preferred side.
- Garnish with extra parsley for a fresh touch and enjoy your delicious creation!