Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp: 15-Minute Dinner

Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp: 15-Minute Dinner 🍤🧄🥘

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a easy creamy garlic shrimp recipe that delivers flavor and satisfaction in just 15 minutes, you’ve come to the right place. This 15-minute shrimp recipe combines tender shrimp with a rich, garlicky sauce that will elevate your weeknight dinners to a new level. Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook looking for a flavorful yet simple meal, this garlic shrimp pasta is the perfect solution that requires minimal time and effort. For more quick dinner ideas, visit our dinner collection.

2. Ingredients Needed for Your Creamy Garlic Shrimp

  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional for added zest)
  • 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your favorite)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Preparation

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Need some pasta inspiration? Check out our easy tomato zucchini pasta for a delicious alternative.

Cooking the Shrimp

Meanwhile, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. For more quick seafood recipes, explore our crispy cheesy smashburger quesadillas.

Creating the Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened. This rich sauce beautifully pairs with the shrimp and pasta, making every bite flavorful.

Combining Everything

Add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat them in the creamy garlic sauce. Stir in the cooked pasta and heat through for another 1–2 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for optimal flavor. Looking for more pasta ideas? Don’t miss our ultimate marry me chicken pasta.

4. Storage Tips for Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta

To keep your easy creamy garlic shrimp fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess. For best texture, avoid freezing, as the cream may separate upon thawing. Want to prep in advance? Consider storing the sauce separately and combining when reheating.

5. Serving Suggestions for Your 15-Minute Shrimp Dinner

This garlic shrimp pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp mixed salad or steamed vegetables. For an extra burst of flavor, garnish with additional fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon. Serve immediately for a delightful, protein-packed 15-minute shrimp recipe that impresses every time. For side dishes, try our easy homemade breakfast wraps to complement your meal.

6. Why This Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe Works So Well

This easy creamy garlic shrimp recipe is perfect because it combines quick cooking techniques with rich, comforting flavors. The use of fresh garlic and cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats every piece of shrimp and pasta beautifully. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation, it embodies everything a busy home cook needs for a fulfilling, restaurant-quality meal in just 15 minutes. For more kitchen gadgets that make cooking easier, check out the KitchenAid Classic Iconic Stand Mixer.

7. Tips to Make Your Garlic Shrimp Pasta Even Better

  • Use large, fresh shrimp for better texture and flavor.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp—they should be tender and pink, not rubbery.
  • Adjust the garlic and red pepper flakes for a milder or spicier version.
  • Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon to add brightness.
  • Pair with a glass of white wine or a refreshing beverage such as our Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker for a complete dining experience.

8. Frequently Asked Questions About Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free pasta options to enjoy this dish without gluten.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, but for the best texture and flavor, reheat gently and add a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce. For efficient prep, consider using the Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master for chopping ingredients quickly.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream with a healthier alternative?

You can substitute with light cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk for a lighter version, though flavors may vary slightly. To keep ingredients fresh longer, store leftovers in JoyJolt Airtight Glass Food Storage Set.

9. Conclusion

In summary, this 15-minute shrimp recipe for easy creamy garlic shrimp offers an effortless way to enjoy a gourmet meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender shrimp, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta to satisfy your cravings quickly. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, satisfying dinner that tastes like it took hours to prepare — all in just 15 minutes!

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A plate of creamy garlic shrimp garnished with fresh herbs, served with lemon wedges on a white ceramic plate.

Quick & Easy Creamy Garlic Shrimp: 15-Minute Dinner

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Discover the best 15-minute creamy garlic shrimp recipe that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp coated in a rich, garlicky sauce served over pasta makes for a satisfying gourmet meal in no time.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
  • 8 ounces of pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or your choice)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season shrimp with salt and black pepper, then cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the same skillet; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice; stir and simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
  6. Stir in cooked pasta and cook for another 1–2 minutes to warm through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

  • Use large, fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp—they cook quickly and should remain tender.
  • Adjust garlic and red pepper flakes to suit your spice preference.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon before serving for extra flavor.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (with GF pasta)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 430 Kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 26g
  • Cholesterol: 210mg

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