Description
This creamy garlic paprika shrimp skillet is a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich and velvety sauce made with garlic, smoked paprika, heavy cream, and fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels indulgent yet simple to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Rinse the fresh shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
- Sauté aromatics and spices: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Sprinkle in the smoked paprika and continue cooking for another 30 seconds to bloom the spice and deepen the sauce’s flavor.
- Create the creamy sauce: Pour the heavy cream and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the skillet, stirring well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to become luscious.
- Combine and finish cooking: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently stir to coat evenly with the creamy garlic paprika sauce. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to reheat the shrimp and integrate the flavors. Just before serving, stir in the chopped fresh parsley to add brightness and color.
Notes
- Using peeled and deveined shrimp saves time and ensures even cooking.
- Adjust the smoked paprika quantity to modify the smoky flavor intensity.
- Serve with rice, crusty bread, or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or half-and-half.
- Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, but you can substitute with cilantro or basil if preferred.
