Some of my most cherished memories are wrapped in the scent of my grandma’s kitchen—yeast blooming for her Sunday rolls or the sharp, sweet smell of apple pie. But running my own bakery, Sweet Magnolia, means my days are filled with flour and sugar. When I get home, I crave something savory, something fast, and something that feels like a hug in a bowl.
That’s where this recipe was born. On a particularly hectic Tuesday, with a catering order looming, I found a bag of shrimp in the freezer and a deep-seated need for comfort food. I wanted something decadent without the effort.
That night, this One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp came to life. It’s a dish that feels special enough for a celebration but is simple enough for the busiest weeknight. This incredible creamy garlic shrimp is now my go-to meal, a savory secret I pull out whenever I need a quick, delicious dinner that won’t leave my kitchen in a state of chaos.
This garlic butter shrimp recipe is proof that you don’t need hours to create something truly spectacular. With just one pan, this one pan shrimp dish delivers a rich, satisfying flavor that tastes like it simmered all day.
Why You’ll Love This One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
There are so many reasons to fall head-over-heels for this recipe, and I promise it will become a staple in your home just as it has in mine. It’s more than just a quick meal; it’s a game-changer for weeknight cooking.
- Incredibly Fast: This entire meal comes together in under 20 minutes. Seriously! It’s the perfect solution for those nights when you’re tempted to order takeout. You can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table in less time than it takes for delivery to arrive.
- Minimal Cleanup: As the name suggests, everything cooks in a single skillet. That means no pile of dishes to tackle after dinner. This is a huge win in my book, leaving more time for you to relax and enjoy your evening.
- Rich, Decadent Flavor: The combination of savory garlic, rich butter, and luscious heavy cream creates a sauce that is absolutely irresistible. This One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp tastes like a dish from a fancy Italian restaurant, but you made it yourself with minimal fuss.
- Endlessly Versatile: This creamy garlic butter shrimp is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with so many things. Serve this one pan creamy shrimp over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles, or simply with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Simple, Accessible Ingredients: You don’t need to hunt for any specialty items. This shrimp skillet uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand, like butter, garlic, and cream. It makes whipping up this one pan creamy garlic butter shrimp an easy decision any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this stunning One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp, you’ll need just a handful of simple, high-quality ingredients. The magic is in the combination!
- 1 lb large shrimp: Peeled and deveined, with tails on or off (your preference).
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: This is the rich foundation of our sauce.
- 6 cloves garlic: Minced. Don’t be shy with the garlic!
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth: This adds depth and helps create the sauce base.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: For that luxurious, creamy texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Use freshly grated for the best melting and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A simple blend that adds a touch of herbal fragrance.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Optional, but recommended for a gentle kick of heat.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley: Chopped, for a bright, fresh finish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Freshly squeezed, to cut through the richness.
Substitutions & Variations
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it. Feel free to play around and make this One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp your own!
- Add Spinach: Stir in a few large handfuls of fresh spinach at the end of cooking. It will wilt down into the sauce beautifully, adding extra nutrients and color.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes: For a tangy, chewy addition, add 1/4 cup of chopped, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes along with the garlic.
- Make it Spicy: If you love heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a finely diced jalapeño when you sauté the garlic.
- Different Protein: This creamy garlic butter dish works wonderfully with other proteins. Try it with bite-sized pieces of chicken breast, scallops, or even sliced Italian sausage. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Dairy-Free Option: For a dairy-free version, use a high-quality olive oil or dairy-free butter substitute. You can replace the heavy cream with full-fat canned coconut cream for a similar rich texture. Use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Change the Herbs: While parsley is classic, fresh basil, thyme, or oregano would also be delicious in this easy shrimp recipe.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a show-stopping meal in minutes. This process is so quick and satisfying!
- Prepare the Shrimp: First, pat your peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is key to getting a good sear! Season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Shrimp: Next, in a large skillet or pan, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they are pink and opaque. Immediately remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate. Do not overcook them!
- Create the Garlic Butter Base: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once it melts, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Build the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any delicious browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring the liquid to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
- Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue to whisk gently until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened. This is the heart of your creamy garlic butter shrimp sauce.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp in that glorious sauce. Let it warm through for about a minute. Taste the sauce for your one pan shrimp and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed. This one pan creamy garlic butter shrimp is now ready to serve!
Pro Tips for Success
To make the absolute best, most perfect One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp every single time, keep these simple tips in mind. They make all the difference!
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: This is the most important rule! Shrimp cook incredibly fast. They only need a minute or two per side. They will cook a little more when you add them back to the sauce, so it’s better to slightly undercook them initially. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
- Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients: Since there are so few ingredients in this creamy garlic shrimp recipe, their quality really shines through. Use real butter (not margarine), fresh garlic (not the jarred kind), and freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture.
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- Pat the Shrimp Dry: I mentioned it in the instructions, but it’s worth repeating. Drying the shrimp thoroughly ensures they sear in the pan rather than steam. This creates more flavor.
- Scrape the Pan (The “Fond”): Those little browned bits left in the pan after searing the shrimp are pure flavor gold. Deglazing the pan with broth releases them into the sauce, adding incredible depth to your delicious garlic butter shrimp.
Storage & Reheating Tips
While this dish is definitely best enjoyed fresh, leftovers are still incredibly tasty if handled properly. Here’s how to store and reheat your leftover One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp.
Storage: Allow the creamy garlic butter shrimp to cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. I do not recommend freezing this dish, as the cream sauce can separate upon thawing and the shrimp texture can become compromised.
Reheating: The key to reheating is to do it gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp and breaking the sauce. Place the leftovers in a small saucepan or skillet over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Heat slowly, stirring occasionally, just until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery in seconds.
What to Serve With This Recipe
This One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is a star, but every star needs a supporting cast! The rich, creamy sauce is practically begging to be soaked up. Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of Grandma’s No-Knead Crusty Bread is non-negotiable in my house. It’s perfect for dipping and ensuring not a single drop of that incredible sauce goes to waste.
- Pasta: Toss this creamy garlic shrimp dish with your favorite pasta. Angel hair, linguine, or fettuccine are all excellent choices that capture the sauce beautifully.
- Rice or Quinoa: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa to soak up the creamy goodness.
- Low-Carb Options: For a lighter meal, serve it with zucchini noodles (zoodles), cauliflower rice, or steamed asparagus.
- A Simple Salad: Balance the richness with a crisp green salad tossed in a bright Simple Lemon Vinaigrette.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp works perfectly for this One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp. Just make sure you thaw them completely before you start.
The best way to do this is to place them in a colander in the sink and run cool water over them for a few minutes. Once thawed, pat them very dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Because shrimp cooks so quickly and is best enjoyed fresh, I don’t recommend making the entire dish ahead of time. However, you can definitely do some prep work to save time! You can mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and measure out your other ingredients in advance. When you’re ready to eat, the cooking process will take less than 20 minutes.
My sauce seems too thin. How can I thicken it?
If your sauce isn’t as thick as you’d like, you can let it simmer on low for a few extra minutes to reduce and thicken naturally. The Parmesan cheese also acts as a thickener.
Ensure you’re using heavy cream, not half-and-half or milk, as its higher fat content is crucial for a rich, stable sauce. For a quick fix, you can make a small slurry of 1 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water, then whisk it into the simmering sauce until it thickens.
Is this garlic butter shrimp recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, it is! This creamy shrimp recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein, making it an excellent choice for a keto or low-carb lifestyle. Just be sure to serve it with keto-friendly sides like zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a green salad instead of pasta or bread.
Nutrition Information (per serving)
The following is an estimate for one serving of this One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp, assuming the recipe makes 4 servings. Actual values may vary based on specific ingredients used.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 415 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 33 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Sodium | 580 mg |
One Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Total Time: 20 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Keto-Friendly, Low-Carb, Gluten-Free
Description
A decadent yet simple one-pan meal, this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is perfect for busy weeknights. It features seared shrimp tossed in a rich and luscious sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan. This restaurant-quality dish comes together in under 20 minutes with minimal cleanup, making it a go-to for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
Instructions
- Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp completely dry with paper towels. Season them generously on both sides with salt and pepper
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once sizzling, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside
- Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly
- Reduce the heat to low. Whisk in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Continue to whisk gently until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Toss to coat the shrimp in the sauce and let it warm through for about a minute. Taste and adjust with more salt and pepper if needed
Notes
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. It’s better to slightly undercook them initially as they will cook more when returned to the sauce.
Use Fresh, Quality Ingredients: Use real butter, fresh garlic, and freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
Pat the Shrimp Dry: Drying the shrimp ensures they sear rather than steam, creating more flavor.
Scrape the Pan: The browned bits (fond) left after searing the shrimp add incredible depth to the sauce when you deglaze with broth.
Variations: Add fresh spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or more red pepper flakes for heat. This sauce also works well with chicken, scallops, or Italian sausage.
Dairy-Free Option: Use high-quality olive oil, full-fat canned coconut cream, and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 10 mins
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 415 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 580 mg
- Fat: 33 g
- Saturated Fat: 21 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 310 mg