Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp – Irresistible 20-Minute One-Pan Dinner

By homestylepick.com
Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes

Introduction

If you’re craving a fast, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent without being heavy, these Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp are about to become a go-to favorite. Juicy shrimp are quickly seared, then simmered in a rich garlic butter cream sauce that coats every bite. Everything comes together in one skillet, making this recipe perfect for busy weeknights when you still want something special on the table.

This dish delivers the same cozy, skillet-dinner comfort you love in recipes like Creamy Garlic Parmesan Steak Bites, but with a lighter seafood twist. The shrimp cook in minutes, the sauce comes together effortlessly, and the result tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant — without the wait or cleanup.

Why This Shrimp Recipe Works

Shrimp are ideal for quick skillet meals because they cook fast and absorb flavor beautifully. Searing them first builds a savory base, while finishing them in the sauce keeps them tender and juicy.

The garlic butter cream sauce is simple but powerful. Butter and garlic create depth, cream adds richness, and a splash of broth keeps the sauce smooth instead of heavy. This same one-pan approach is what makes dishes like Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Bites so reliable — minimal steps, maximum flavor.

Ingredients

Instructions

Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika.

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp to a plate.

Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet, then stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pour in the heavy cream and broth, whisking until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes.

Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Add lemon juice, then return the shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat and cook for 1 minute until everything is heated through.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Flavor Profile

These creamy garlic butter shrimp are rich, savory, and perfectly balanced. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the garlic adds bold flavor, and the cream sauce is smooth without being overwhelming. The lemon juice brightens everything, keeping the dish fresh and satisfying.

If you enjoy creamy seafood dishes like Creamy Tuscan Salmon, this shrimp version offers the same comforting feel with even faster cooking time.

Substitutions

Half & half can replace heavy cream for a lighter sauce
Asiago or Romano can replace Parmesan
Vegetable broth can replace seafood broth
Olive oil can replace butter for a dairy-lighter option

Variations

Creamy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning for heat
Spinach Garlic Shrimp: Stir in fresh spinach until wilted
White Wine Shrimp: Replace ¼ cup broth with dry white wine
Mushroom Garlic Shrimp: Sauté mushrooms before adding garlic

Equipment Needed

Large skillet
Tongs
Whisk

Serving Ideas

These creamy garlic butter shrimp pair beautifully with pasta, white rice, buttered noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. They also work well over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a lighter meal. Warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

For a mixed-protein dinner spread, these shrimp fit right alongside comfort-food favorites like Garlic Butter Mushroom Steak Bites.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

How do I know shrimp are done?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose “C” shape.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

Can I meal prep this recipe?
Shrimp are best fresh, but leftovers reheat well when warmed gently.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just check your broth and cheese labels.

For food safety, shrimp should be cooked properly — follow the USDA shrimp cooking temperature guidelines to ensure perfect results.

Final Thoughts

These Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp are proof that a fast dinner can still feel rich and satisfying. With tender shrimp, a bold garlic cream sauce, and one-pan convenience, this recipe fits perfectly into your growing collection of easy skillet meals. It’s quick, comforting, and guaranteed to disappear fast.