Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Looking for a fast, flavorful dinner that feels a little fancy but takes minimal effort? This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is the answer. Juicy shrimp are coated in a velvety, paprika-spiced garlic cream sauce and cooked all in one skillet for a meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. It’s perfect served over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every bit of that luscious sauce.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
One Skillet – Fewer dishes and faster cleanup.
Bold Yet Balanced – Smoky paprika and garlic paired with rich cream.
Quick & Easy – Dinner on the table in just 25 minutes.
Restaurant-Quality at Home – Creamy, flavorful, and elegant.
Versatile – Great with pasta, rice, or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Shrimp:

• 1½ lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder

For the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds richness)
• 1 tsp lemon juice (brightens the flavor)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For Serving:

• Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread
• Lemon wedges on the side

Tools You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

1. In a bowl, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until well coated.
2. Let it sit while you prep the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1½–2 minutes per side, until just pink and cooked through.
3. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
2. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in smoked paprika, onion powder, and salt.
5. Pour in the heavy cream, scraping up any brown bits from the bottom for flavor.
6. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Lemon

1. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is smooth.
2. Add lemon juice for a touch of brightness.

Step 5: Return the Shrimp and Finish

1. Add cooked shrimp back to the skillet and stir to coat in the creamy sauce.
2. Simmer on low for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
2. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges.

Tips for the Best Shrimp Skillet
Use Fresh or Frozen Shrimp – If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Don’t Overcook – Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
Let the Sauce Simmer – This helps it thicken and blend flavors.
Add Veggies – Spinach, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms are great stir-ins.
Adjust Spice – Control the heat by adjusting red pepper flakes or paprika.

Serving Suggestions
Linguine or Fettuccine – Toss the shrimp and sauce directly into cooked pasta.
Steamed Rice – Fluffy rice soaks up the creamy sauce perfectly.
Crusty Bread – Ideal for dipping and scooping up every bit.
Mashed Potatoes – For a rich and hearty base.
Steamed Broccoli or Green Beans – Add a fresh, crunchy side.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:
Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Do not freeze – Cream-based sauces can separate when thawed.

Reheating:
Stovetop: Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce has thickened.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals (30 seconds at a time), stirring between each to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use milk instead of cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Using half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little butter helps thicken it.

2. Is there a dairy-free option?
Use full-fat coconut milk and skip the Parmesan, or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

3. Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine and heat right before serving.

4. What other proteins can I use?
Chicken breast strips or firm white fish like cod or halibut work well in place of shrimp.

Final Thoughts
This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is your new weeknight go-to—rich, comforting, and incredibly easy to make. With just a few pantry staples and fresh shrimp, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy dish on the table in under 30 minutes. Whether you serve it over pasta or mop it up with bread, this meal is bound to become a repeat favorite.

Try it tonight and let the flavor do the talking. Don’t forget to share your version with friends or save it for a cozy night in.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Calories: 390 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fat: 26g | Fiber: 1g | Sodium: 720mg

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