Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender shrimp in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with a hint of smoky paprika. The shrimp cook…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
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Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender shrimp in a rich, garlicky cream sauce with a hint of smoky paprika. The shrimp cook fast and get coated in a sauce that’s smooth and flavorful, making every bite just perfect.
I love making this skillet dinner when I want something that feels special but comes together without any fuss. The garlic really shines here, and the paprika adds a cozy warmth that makes the dish a little different than your usual shrimp. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to whip up, which is great for busy evenings.
My favorite way to serve this is over warm rice or with some crusty bread to soak up all that creamy sauce. It’s always a hit with family and friends because the flavors are simple but satisfying. Whenever I make it, there’s always just enough left to enjoy for lunch the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best here for quick cooking and a tender bite. You can use frozen shrimp too—just thaw completely before cooking to avoid extra water in the sauce.
Smoked Paprika: This gives a nice smoky flavor. If you don’t have it, regular paprika is okay, but the smoky hint will be milder. Chili powder adds heat, so skip it if you prefer mild dishes.
Heavy Cream: This is key for that rich, creamy sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce might be thinner.
Tomato Paste: It adds subtle tang and a lovely color. If you don’t have paste, use finely diced fresh tomatoes or omit it for a richer, less tangy sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Optional for extra richness and a nice cheesy depth. Nutritional yeast is a good dairy-free substitute.
How Do You Make the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Sauce Perfectly Smooth?
The sauce is the heart of this dish, and it needs gentle heat and patience to come together nicely.
- After sautéing onions and garlic, stir in tomato paste for 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor.
- Pour in broth and scrape the pan’s bottom to lift all those tasty browned bits.
- Simmer briefly to reduce slightly—this concentrates flavors and avoids a watery sauce.
- Lower heat before adding heavy cream—too high heat can cause cream to separate.
- Stir gently and let sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes; it should coat the spoon smoothly.
- Add Parmesan last to melt slowly, enriching the sauce without clumping.
Take your time with this process, using medium-low heat once cream is added to keep the sauce silky and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – A wide skillet lets shrimp cook quickly and gives space to make the creamy sauce easily.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Perfect for stirring gently without scratching your pan.
- Measuring spoons and cups – To get the paprika, cream, and broth just right for balanced flavor.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping garlic, onion, and parsley smoothly and safely.
- Ladle or large spoon – Handy for serving the shrimp and sauce over rice or pasta.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of firm white fish for a different seafood twist that cooks quickly too.
- Add chopped spinach or kale near the end for extra color and nutrients that wilt nicely in the sauce.
- Stir in a pinch of smoked cayenne or red pepper flakes if you like more heat beyond the chili powder.
- Use sun-dried tomatoes instead of tomato paste for a chewier, tangier flavor that pairs well with the creaminess.
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup (120ml) chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste or finely diced tomatoes (for subtle tang and color)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- 1 lemon, sliced for garnish and optional squeeze
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes total. You’ll spend 10 minutes prepping ingredients and 10 minutes cooking everything quickly and easily. It’s perfect for a fast, flavorful meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and half the smoked paprika. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are just cooked through. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables and Spices:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion. Cook it for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic, the remaining smoked paprika, and chili powder if you want a bit of heat. Stir and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste or diced tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, gently scraping the skillet’s bottom to lift any tasty browned bits. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream, stirring well. Let the sauce thicken for 3-5 minutes. If you’re using Parmesan cheese, stir it in now until melted and smooth.
4. Combine and Serve:
Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them well in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to warm through. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and add lemon slices for garnish. Serve right away with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to enjoy all that creamy goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry well to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?
Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk or a creamy dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without dairy. The sauce may be a bit thinner but still delicious.
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the sauce and shrimp ahead, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat and stir occasionally to bring back creaminess without separating.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp?
This shrimp pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta to soak up the flavorful sauce. A light salad or steamed vegetables make nice, fresh sides too!