Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

This luxurious one-skillet wonder transforms humble shrimp into an extraordinary meal that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant. Plump, juicy shrimp bathe in a velvety sauce infused with aromatic garlic and the complex, smoky warmth of paprika. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of richness and depth, with hints of spice that enhance the natural sweetness of the seafood. The sauce—silky and indulgent—clings to the shrimp and whatever you serve it with, making every mouthful a decadent experience. Even better, this impressive dish comes together in under 30 minutes using just one pan, proving that sophisticated flavors don't require complicated techniques or hours in the kitchen.

I first created this recipe on a rainy evening when I was craving something comforting yet special. As the aroma of garlic and paprika filled my kitchen, I knew I was onto something magical. When my husband—who typically approaches seafood with skepticism—went back for seconds and then asked if we could have it again the following week, I knew this dish was a keeper. It's now our go-to meal when we want to elevate a weeknight dinner or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined: Look for 16/20 count shrimp which are plump enough to remain juicy after cooking but not so large they're difficult to eat.
• 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Provides earthy, woodsy depth that transforms the sauce. Spanish smoked paprika (pimentón) offers the most authentic flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Sweet Paprika: Balances the smokiness with subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
• 4 Cloves Garlic, minced: The aromatic foundation of the dish. Fresh garlic is essential here—pre-minced versions won't provide the same intensity.
• 2 tablespoons Butter: Creates a rich base for the sauce and helps carry the flavors of garlic and spices.
• 1 cup Heavy Cream: Forms the luxurious body of the sauce. Full-fat version yields the silkiest texture.
• ½ cup Chicken Broth: Adds savory depth while keeping the sauce from becoming too heavy.
• ½ cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Introduces nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated melts much more smoothly than pre-packaged.
• 1tablespoon Fresh Lemon Juice: Brightens all the flavors with its acidity, cutting through the richness of the cream.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley, chopped: Adds vibrant color and a fresh, herbaceous note that balances the richness.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Season the Shrimp Perfectly:

Begin by patting the shrimp completely dry with paper towels to ensure proper searing. Place them in a medium bowl and sprinkle with the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, ½teaspoon salt, and ¼teaspoon black pepper. Gently toss until each shrimp is evenly coated with the vibrant spice mixture. The paprika not only adds flavor but also gives the shrimp a beautiful reddish hue. Let them sit for about 5 minutes while you prepare other ingredients, allowing the seasonings to adhere and begin flavoring the shrimp.

Create the Perfect Sear:

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1tablespoon of olive oil. When the oil shimmers but doesn't smoke, carefully add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Work in batches if necessary to maintain space between each piece. Allow the shrimp to cook undisturbed for exactly 2 minutes until they develop a golden crust, then flip and cook for just 1-2 minutes more until they turn pink and opaque but remain slightly tender in the center. Immediately transfer to a clean plate to prevent overcooking. The goal is juicy, tender shrimp—not tough, rubbery ones.

Build the Aromatic Foundation:

Return the same skillet to medium heat, taking advantage of the flavorful fond (browned bits) left from searing the shrimp. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely. Once the butter stops foaming, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes if you enjoy a hint of heat. Sauté for about 30-45 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning. The garlic should soften and become aromatic but not take on any color—garlic turns bitter when browned, which would compromise the delicate flavor of the sauce.

Develop the Silky Sauce:

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—these contain concentrated flavor. Allow the broth to simmer for about 1 minute, reducing slightly and concentrating its flavor. Gradually pour in the heavy cream while stirring continuously. Add ½teaspoon onion powder and ½teaspoon dried oregano, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the sauce gently simmer (never boil, which could cause it to separate) for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but still remain pourable. Add the grated Parmesan cheese in small handfuls, stirring between additions to ensure it melts completely into the sauce without clumping. Once all the cheese is incorporated and the sauce is smooth, add the fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. This crucial acidic component balances the richness of the cream and cheese while highlighting the flavors of the shrimp.

Reunite the Components:

Gently return the seared shrimp to the skillet, including any juices that have accumulated on the plate—these contain valuable flavor. Carefully fold the shrimp into the sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Allow everything to simmer together for just 1-2 minutes to warm the shrimp through and let them absorb some of the sauce's flavor. Be careful not to cook the shrimp any longer, as they'll become tough. The residual heat of the sauce will complete the cooking process perfectly.

Finish with Flourish:

Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley, which adds a pop of color and fresh flavor that contrasts beautifully with the rich sauce. For an extra touch of indulgence, you can add a final light grating of Parmesan over the top. Serve immediately while piping hot, either straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation or transferred to a serving dish. Accompany with your choice of pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even roasted vegetables to soak up every drop of the magnificent sauce.

I learned about the importance of properly drying shrimp before cooking through a kitchen disaster early in my marriage. Attempting to impress my in-laws, I tossed wet shrimp into a hot pan, creating a splattering mess and shrimp that steamed rather than seared. Now I always thoroughly pat shrimp dry with paper towels first—this simple step ensures a beautiful golden crust and minimizes dangerous oil splatters. That failed dinner party taught me that sometimes the simplest techniques make the biggest difference in cooking success.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish is certainly the star of any meal, pairing it with complementary sides elevates the dining experience. For a classic approach, serve over al dente linguine or fettuccine—the flat noodles capture the sauce beautifully. The buttery flavor complements the shrimp perfectly, while the slight nuttiness of the Parmesan adds depth. For a lighter option, try it with steamed jasmine rice which soaks up the creamy sauce while adding subtle floral notes. For a more rustic presentation, serve with crusty artisan bread or garlic bread to soak up any remaining sauce. A selection of dipping sauces—ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or additional marinara—allows guests to customize each bite.

Clever Variations

The basic recipe creates a magnificent meal, but don't be afraid to make it your own. For a Mediterranean twist, add halved cherry tomatoes and baby spinach during the last minute of cooking, then finish with crumbled feta instead of Parmesan. Seafood lovers can create a mixed seafood version by adding bay scallops or bite-sized pieces of firm white fish along with the shrimp. For a touch of elegance, add a splash of white wine or vermouth when deglazing the pan before adding the broth. Those avoiding dairy can substitute full-fat coconut milk for the heavy cream, creating a tropical variation with a hint of exotic flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

While this dish is quick enough for weeknight preparation, you can streamline the process even further with some advance work. Clean and season the shrimp up to 12 hours ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator. The creamy sauce base (before adding shrimp) can be made up to two days in advance and gently reheated before continuing with the recipe. For entertaining, have all ingredients measured and prepped in advance, storing them in separate containers. When guests arrive, you'll only need about 15 minutes of active cooking time to bring everything together, allowing you to enjoy their company instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even experienced cooks occasionally encounter challenges. If your sauce breaks or appears curdled, lower the heat immediately and whisk in a tablespoon of cold cream to help it re-emulsify. For shrimp that turned out tough or rubbery, remember for next time that shrimp continue cooking even after removed from heat—it's better to slightly undercook them initially. If your sauce isn't thickening properly, try a gentle simmer for a few extra minutes, or whisk a teaspoon of cornstarch with cold water and add it to the simmering sauce. For a sauce that's too thick, simply thin with additional warm broth until you reach your desired consistency.

My most memorable experience with this dish came during a power outage last winter. Working by candlelight with a gas stove, I prepared this for my family as we huddled around the kitchen island for warmth. The aromatic garlic and paprika filled our darkened home with comforting scents, and the rich, creamy dish provided not just nourishment but a sense of normalcy during an unsettling time. My teenage daughter, typically critical of "non-takeout" meals, declared it better than any restaurant version she'd tried. Since then, it's become our tradition to make this dish whenever we need a reminder of home's comforts—proving that sometimes the most special recipes are born from the simplest moments.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely first by placing in a colander under cool running water for about 5 minutes, then pat dry before seasoning.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and omit the Parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be different but still delicious.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This versatile dish pairs well with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, zucchini noodles, or crusty bread for dipping in the sauce. A simple green salad makes a perfect side.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?

Shrimp cook very quickly! They're done when they turn from translucent gray to opaque pink and curl into a loose C-shape. Overcooked shrimp curl into a tight O-shape and become rubbery.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best served fresh, as reheating can overcook the shrimp. If needed, make the sauce ahead and refrigerate, then quickly cook the shrimp and combine just before serving.