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As I stood in my kitchen, the intoxicating aroma of sizzling garlic enveloped me, igniting memories of cozy dinners shared with loved ones. This is the magic of creamy garlic prawns—a dish that effortlessly elevates any meal into an unforgettable experience. With tender, succulent prawns enveloped in a rich garlic sauce, this recipe combines simple ingredients and techniques to create a stunning centerpiece for your dining table. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s a quick-prep wonder that transforms weeknight dinners into luxurious feasts, all while being a crowd-pleaser for family and friends alike. So, are you ready to dive into this culinary delight and impress your guests—just wait until they get a taste of that silky sauce!
Why is Creamy Garlic Shrimp a Must-Try?
Rich, Distinct Flavors: The combination of garlic, buttery goodness, and Parmesan offers an indulgent experience that makes every bite memorable.
Quick Prep Time: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
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Customizable Options: From adding a splash of lemon juice for brightness to incorporating red chili flakes for heat, you can easily tailor this recipe to your personal taste.
Stunning Presentation: The glossy, creamy sauce not only tastes amazing but also adds an impressive touch to any dinner table—just imagine the smiles on your guests’ faces!
Versatile Serving Ideas: Pair it with creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned rice, or fresh bread, making it adaptable to any meal occasion. With options like Skillet Garlic Parmesan or Creamy Hash Brown Casserole, you can expand your culinary arsenal effortlessly.
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience waiting to unfold!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
For the Prawns
• Prawns/Shrimp – Fresh or quality frozen, peeled prawns are essential for this dish; for whole prawns, use about 1 kg (2 lbs) to account for shells.
• Olive Oil – Perfect for marinating the prawns, enhancing their flavor and preventing sticking during cooking.
• Garlic – Finely minced garlic is key for infusing flavor into both the prawns and the creamy sauce.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – Provides richness for both cooking the prawns and creating the sauce; ensure it’s unsalted for better control of seasoning.
• Dry White Wine – Used to deglaze the pan, adding complexity to the sauce; opt for something dry like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris.
• Low Sodium Chicken or Vegetable Stock – Adds depth to your sauce without over-salting; chicken stock is preferred for its rich flavor.
• Heavy Cream – Delivers that luscious, creamy texture; full-fat cream is recommended for best results.
• Parmesan – Freshly grated for optimal meltability and added umami flavor; it’s a must for that perfect sauce consistency.
For Garnish
• Parsley – Chopped fresh parsley to add a burst of color and a hint of freshness as a finishing touch.
• Black Pepper & Salt – Use these to season according to your preference, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a blend of simple yet flavorful ingredients that will have you savoring every delightful bite!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Marinate the Prawns
In a mixing bowl, combine your peeled prawns with minced garlic, a drizzle of olive oil, and black pepper. Toss the ingredients gently to ensure the prawns are well-coated. Let them marinate for 20 minutes to absorb the flavors. Just before cooking, stir in a pinch of salt for seasoning.
Step 2: Cook the Prawns
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter until melted and bubbly. Carefully add the marinated prawns to the pan, cooking for about 1 minute on each side. Look for the prawns to turn a lovely pink color, indicating they’re cooked. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic for the Sauce
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter, melting it over medium heat. Once melted, add a generous amount of minced garlic, sautéing briefly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn; this step builds the base for your creamy garlic sauce.
Step 4: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in ⅓ cup of dry white wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any tasty bits. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2 minutes, letting the wine reduce and the raw alcohol flavor evaporate. You want to focus on drawing out that rich aroma which will deepen the sauce’s flavor.
Step 5: Add Stock and Reduce
Next, pour in 1 cup of low sodium chicken or vegetable stock. Increase the heat slightly and let the sauce reduce until there’s only a thin layer left in the pan, which should take about 5 minutes. This will concentrate the flavors even more for your delicious creamy garlic shrimp.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and stir in ½ cup of heavy cream, letting it simmer for an additional 2 minutes. Watch for the sauce to thicken slightly; it should be creamy and luscious. Now, add in ¾ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and well combined with the sauce.
Step 7: Combine Prawns with Sauce
Return the cooked prawns to the skillet, gently tossing them in the creamy garlic sauce until evenly coated. Allow everything to heat through for about 1-2 minutes. Ensure the prawns remain tender and succulent, ready to be plated for your guests to enjoy.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Once the creamy garlic shrimp is ready, garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve it warm over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice, allowing those rich flavors to soak in. Your beautiful dish is now ready to impress!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Choose Quality Prawns: Fresh or high-quality frozen prawns yield the best texture and flavor, ensuring your creamy garlic shrimp is a hit.
Don’t Rush the Marinade: Letting the prawns marinate in garlic and olive oil enhances their flavor. A 20-minute soak is optimal; adding salt right before cooking avoids drawing out moisture.
Simmer Wine Thoroughly: Always allow the wine to simmer until the raw alcohol smell dissipates. This step deepens the flavor of your sauce, making it truly exceptional.
Stir in Parmesan Gradually: To achieve a silky texture, add grated parmesan to the sauce slowly, allowing it to melt evenly. This prevents clumping and ensures a deliciously creamy finish.
Watch Cooking Times: Prawns cook quickly; 1-2 minutes per side is sufficient. Overcooking will lead to a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them.
By following these tips, your creamy garlic shrimp will not just be delicious—it will be absolutely unforgettable!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Serving Suggestions
Transform your meal with delightful sides that complement the indulgence of creamy garlic shrimp. Each option enhances the experience, creating a perfect harmony of flavors and textures.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The ultimate comfort food! Their creamy texture and buttery flavor soak up all that rich garlic sauce, making every bite a dream.
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Fluffy Rice: Whether plain or seasoned, rice adds a mild base to balance the robust flavor of the sauce. Try it with cilantro or lime for an extra zest!
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Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm loaf of crusty bread for a sophisticated touch. Perfect for scooping up every drop of that heavenly sauce.
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Garlic Herb Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, pair your creamy garlic shrimp with garlic herb quinoa, bringing in a nutty flavor and texture that complements the dish beautifully.
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Roasted Vegetables: Add a splash of color and nutrition with a side of roasted vegetables. Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus drizzled with olive oil bring freshness to your meal.
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Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb alternative, cauliflower rice provides a mild flavor and a lovely texture that allows the creamy garlic shrimp to shine.
Keep it simple yet elegant with these serving suggestions! Each bite will not only wow your guests but leave them wanting more. If you’re looking for other delicious ideas, consider trying my Ground Beef Pasta or Crockpot Chicken Nachos for a delightful twist on dinner.
Make Ahead Options
These creamy garlic prawns are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the prawns in the garlic and olive oil mixture up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to stir in the salt just before cooking to maintain their freshness. Additionally, the garlic sauce can be prepared ahead; simply make it up to 3 days beforehand, allowing it to cool before refrigerating. When you’re ready to serve, gently reheat the sauce on low while cooking the prawns fresh for an indulgent finish. This method preserves the rich, creamy texture and flavor, ensuring your dish remains just as delicious as when it was freshly made!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on low heat to maintain texture and flavor without overcooking the prawns.
Freezer: If you wish to freeze the creamy garlic shrimp, place it in a freezer-safe container after cooling. It can last for up to 2 months, but note that the texture may change upon thawing.
Thawing: To thaw, transfer the frozen shrimp to the refrigerator overnight. For quicker thawing, place it under cold running water before reheating gently on the stove.
Reheating: Reheat the creamy garlic shrimp on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or stock if the sauce has thickened too much. Aim for a warm, creamy consistency without cooking the prawns again.
What to Serve with Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that beautifully complement the rich flavors of your creamy garlic shrimp.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The silky texture absorbs the garlic sauce perfectly, providing a comforting base that balances the dish’s indulgence.
- Steamed Asparagus: Crisp and bright, this green vegetable adds a refreshing crunch, cutting through the creaminess of the sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for sopping up every drop of the luscious sauce, this warm and toasty bread adds a cozy touch to the meal.
- Citrus Salad: A mix of fresh greens, oranges, and a light vinaigrette brings brightness and a hint of acidity, complementing the creaminess beautifully.
- Fluffy White Rice: Simple yet effective, rice serves as a neutral canvas to soak up the rich garlic sauce, making each bite a delightful experience.
- Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc: A glass of chilled white wine enhances the meal, harmonizing with the dish’s flavors while providing a refreshing note.
Serve your creamy garlic shrimp alongside these options for a meal that’s not just eaten, but truly savored!
Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best prawns for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting prawns, look for fresh or high-quality frozen ones. Fresh prawns should be firm, with a pleasant ocean smell and a shiny appearance. If using frozen, opt for ones that are flash-frozen and peeled. Medium to large sizes work best, typically around 16-20 count per pound.
What’s the best way to store leftover creamy garlic shrimp?
For sure! Store leftover creamy garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain flavor and texture when reheating, do so gently on low heat to prevent the prawns from becoming rubbery.
Can I freeze creamy garlic shrimp?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, let the dish cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture may alter upon thawing.
How should I thaw frozen creamy garlic shrimp?
Great question! To thaw, transfer the frozen shrimp to the refrigerator overnight for slow thawing. If you’re short on time, run it under cold water for a quicker option. Make sure to reheat it gently in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or stock if the sauce has thickened too much.
What if I can’t find dry white wine?
Not a problem at all! If dry white wine isn’t available, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. This will help mimic the depth of flavor without compromising the overall dish.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! For anyone with dairy allergies, consider using lactose-free heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a similar umami flavor. If you have shellfish allergies, feel free to substitute the prawns with chicken or firm tofu, adjusting the cook time accordingly.
Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Shrimp That's Simply Divine
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine peeled prawns with minced garlic, olive oil, and black pepper. Marinate for 20 minutes.
- Heat a large skillet and add 1 tablespoon of butter until melted. Cook marinated prawns for about 1 minute on each side until pink. Remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, melt another tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in dry white wine, deglazing the skillet and allowing to simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Add low sodium chicken or vegetable stock to the pan. Let the sauce reduce for about 5 minutes.
- Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for 2 minutes. Then add grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
- Return the cooked prawns to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat through for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm over creamy mashed potatoes or rice.
