Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a delicious dish that brings together tender shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach. This recipe is all about simple ingredients…
By Ava
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Reading time: 7 min
Tip: save now, make later.
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a delicious dish that brings together tender shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach. This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together to create something comforting and full of flavor. The shrimp is perfectly cooked in a smooth sauce that’s a little tangy from the tomatoes and balanced with the greens, making it a delightful dish to enjoy any night.
I love making Creamy Tuscan Shrimp because it feels fancy but is actually super easy to prepare. One of my favorite tricks is to use fresh garlic and sun-dried tomatoes for that burst of taste that really makes the dish stand out. Plus, the cream gives it just the right amount of indulgence without being too heavy. It’s a meal that impresses guests but also makes weeknight dinners feel special for my family.
When I serve this shrimp, I usually spoon it over a bed of warm pasta or fluffy rice to soak up all the creamy sauce. It also pairs nicely with a simple side salad or some crusty bread to scoop up every last bit. This is the kind of recipe that leaves everyone asking for seconds and reminds me why I keep coming back to it time and time again.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions for Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best because they stay tender in the sauce. You can use medium shrimp if needed, just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
Bacon: Adds a nice smoky crunch. If you want a lighter version, try pancetta or omit it altogether; a splash of smoked paprika can add similar flavor.
Butter and Olive Oil: Butter brings richness while olive oil helps with cooking at a higher heat without burning. You can use all butter or all oil but mixing both gives best flavor and texture.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and freshness. Sun-dried tomatoes give a deeper, tangier flavor. Pick based on preference or what you have available.
Fresh Spinach: Wilts quickly and adds a lovely green touch. Kale or Swiss chard can be good substitutes; just cook a bit longer for these tougher greens.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan: These make the sauce creamy and cheesy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or use less cheese but the flavor will be less rich.
Italian Seasoning: If you don’t have this blend, a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme works perfectly. Fresh herbs can be added for garnish too.
How Do You Make the Creamy Sauce So Smooth and Tasty?
Getting a creamy, thick sauce really makes this dish shine. Here’s how I keep it smooth and flavorful:
- After cooking shrimp and bacon, use the same skillet to keep all that flavor.
- Add butter and garlic carefully—saute garlic just until you smell it (about 30 seconds), don’t let it brown or it gets bitter.
- Add tomatoes to soften but not turn mushy—about 2-3 minutes is enough.
- Wilt the spinach quickly so it stays bright and fresh, just 2 minutes is perfect.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer—avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
- Slowly stir in Parmesan cheese while simmering; cheese melts and thickens sauce.
- Keep stirring until the sauce coats the back of a spoon—about 3-4 minutes.
Return shrimp and bacon last to avoid overcooking the shrimp, just heat through in the sauce for 1-2 minutes. This keeps the shrimp tender and flavor-packed.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – big enough to cook shrimp and make the sauce without crowding.
- Slotted spoon – perfect for removing crispy bacon while leaving the fat behind.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get the cream, cheese, and seasonings just right.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – gentle for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop garlic, bacon, and tomatoes easily.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken breast strips if you prefer poultry; cook them until golden before making the sauce.
- Add mushrooms for an earthy touch; sauté them with garlic after the bacon.
- Use kale instead of spinach when you want a heartier green with more texture.
- Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat if you like a spicy kick.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
- Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to prepare and cooks fast, making it perfect for a delicious weeknight meal. Prep and cook time combined should fit easily into a half-hour meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook it until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain, but keep the bacon fat in the skillet for flavor.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
To the bacon fat in the skillet, add 1 tablespoon of butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. When melted and hot, add the shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning. Cook the shrimp about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned. Then add the cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until they soften.
4. Add the Spinach and Cream:
Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
5. Finish the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese and the rest of the Italian seasoning. Stir continuously and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp and bacon to the skillet and stir well to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Heat through for another 2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
Sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side if you like. This dish goes wonderfully over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry to remove excess moisture, so they sear nicely.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the sauce and cook the bacon in advance, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the shrimp fresh when reheating to prevent overcooking. Reheat gently on the stove until warmed through.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the creamy sauce without breaking it.
What Are Good Sides to Serve With Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?
This dish is fantastic served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a low-carb option, try it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.