Description
This recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and creamy garlic-paprika sauce. With a blend of smoked paprika and a touch of heat from optional red pepper flakes, the dish is perfectly balanced with savory garlic and a luscious cream base. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s an easy yet impressive seafood entrée suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the shrimp.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Then remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until aromatic and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add spices: Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, regular paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well to combine and release their flavors.
- Simmer with broth: Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to meld the flavors and reduce slightly.
- Add cream and thicken sauce: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream and cook the sauce for another 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently in the sauce. Cook together for an additional 2 minutes to heat through and infuse the shrimp with the sauce flavors.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase red pepper flakes according to your heat preference.
- Use fresh shrimp for best texture and flavor; frozen shrimp can be used if thawed properly.
- The sauce can be served over rice, pasta, or crusty bread for a complete meal.
- To keep it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.
