Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: The Ultimate Shrimp Recipe
Introduction to Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Are you looking for a quick and delightful seafood dish that’s bursting with flavor? Look no further than this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe! Perfectly cooked shrimp enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic sauce is a treat for the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just enjoying a cozy night in, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table.
A Personal Story Behind My Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Journey
Growing up, I often watched my grandmother whip up simple yet flavorful meals in her kitchen. She had a special way of turning fresh ingredients into something magical. This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe reminds me of those cherished moments spent with her, and I find great joy in preparing it for my family. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, just like my grandmother used to do.
What Makes This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out because it combines the sweetness of shrimp with the savory goodness of garlic and butter, all wrapped in a luscious cream sauce. The addition of white cheddar cheese adds a unique twist that elevates the dish to restaurant-quality. It’s not just easy to make, but it also makes for an impressive meal that looks as good as it tastes.
The Full Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, and tails removed
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons white wine
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (or grated Parmesan cheese)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
- No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until the oil is sizzling. Add the shrimp and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside on a plate. Tip: Ensure your shrimp are patted dry for a better sear.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about a minute. Pour in the white wine and stir for another minute. Tip: Keep an eye on the garlic; it can burn quickly, leading to a bitter taste.
- Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and white cheddar cheese. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your liking. Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of water or broth to reach the desired consistency.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes. Tip: Pair with a crisp salad for a complete meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
This dish is incredibly versatile! Serve it over al dente pasta for a classic shrimp pasta dish, or alongside fluffy rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. For a low-carb option, consider serving it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. You can also add vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for added nutrition and color. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different cheeses, like Parmesan or Gruyère, to find your perfect flavor combination.
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best results.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Certainly! Substitute the heavy cream with a dairy-free cream alternative and use a dairy-free cheese for a similar creamy texture.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Equipment
- Large Skillet A non-stick skillet works best for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds jumbo shrimp, peeled, deveined, tails removed
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons white wine No alcoholic drinks allowed, please substitute with a non-alcoholic option.
- 1.5 cups heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.5 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (or grated Parmesan cheese)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes until the oil is sizzling. Add the shrimp and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and fully cooked. Season with salt and pepper, then set aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about a minute. Pour in the white wine and stir for another minute.
- Add the heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and white cheddar cheese. Stir well and bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to medium and continue stirring until the sauce thickens to your liking.
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes.