Description
This recipe features succulent large shrimp cooked to perfection in a rich, creamy garlic and paprika sauce. The combination of smoked and regular paprika with a hint of red pepper flakes creates a flavorful, slightly smoky, and mildly spicy sauce that clings beautifully to the plump shrimp. Ready in just 20 minutes, this quick skillet dish is perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Heat olive oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking the shrimp evenly without sticking.
- Cook shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.
- Sauté garlic: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, infusing the oil with aromatic flavor.
- Add paprika spices: Stir in the smoked paprika, regular paprika, and optional red pepper flakes to the skillet, combining the spices well with the garlic.
- Simmer broth: Pour in the chicken broth and let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes to meld flavors and reduce slightly.
- Add cream: Stir in the heavy cream and cook for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a creamy consistency.
- Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy paprika sauce. Cook together for 2 more minutes to heat the shrimp through and allow them to absorb the sauce flavors.
- Season and garnish: Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately for a deliciously creamy and flavorful shrimp dish.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Serve this dish over rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Ensure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright contrast, but you may substitute with cilantro or chives.
- Using peeled and deveined shrimp saves prep time and improves texture.
