Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp

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Succulent shrimp bathed in a velvety cream sauce, infused with smoky paprika and fragrant garlic, this dish is a luxurious treat you can whip up on a busy weeknight. Each bite bursts with rich, savory flavor balanced by a hint of spice and a silky smooth finish.

Perfect for impressing dinner guests or simply indulging yourself, creamy garlic paprika shrimp comes together in just minutes yet feels like restaurant-quality comfort. You’ll love how effortlessly it pairs with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp

This recipe is a quick, crowd-pleasing favorite that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The paprika adds depth and warmth, while the creamy garlic sauce hugs the shrimp in a luscious coating. With minimal ingredients and a cooking time of under 30 minutes, it’s a weeknight hero or an elegant weekend choice.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For best results, choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp, either fresh or frozen. Fresh shrimp deliver unbeatable sweetness, but frozen shrimp are a convenient and equally tasty option. If using frozen, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear beautifully and the sauce clings perfectly.

Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp

This dish calls for just a handful of kitchen staples that come together for a decadent yet approachable meal. The ingredients are simple but shine when cooked with care and attention.

• Shrimp: The star of the dish, bringing a sweet, briny bite.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps carry the garlic and paprika flavors.
• Garlic: Infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and taste.
• Paprika: Lends a smoky depth and gorgeous color.
• Heavy cream: Creates the luscious, silky sauce that ties it all together.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors.
• Parsley: A sprinkle of freshness for garnish.

How To Make the Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, melt more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in paprika and cook for another 30 seconds to bloom the spice.

Step 3: Add the Cream

Pour in the heavy cream, stirring well to deglaze the pan and pick up all the flavorful bits. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Finish the Dish

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat them in the sauce. Let everything warm through for another minute, then remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp

This recipe feeds about 4 people generously when served as a main course. Enjoy it right away while the shrimp are tender and the sauce is hot and creamy. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Paprika Shrimp?

Garlic Butter Rice

Fluffy rice with extra garlic butter is the perfect companion to soak up all that creamy sauce.

Crusty French Bread

A warm baguette or rustic loaf makes every last drop of sauce count.

Steamed Broccoli

Add a pop of color and freshness with tender green broccoli florets.

Mashed Potatoes

For a hearty, comforting side, buttery mashed potatoes work beautifully.

Zucchini Noodles

If you’re craving something lighter, spiralized zucchini keeps things low-carb and delicious.

Mixed Green Salad

A crisp salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.

Roasted Asparagus

Earthy roasted asparagus brings out the smoky notes of the paprika.

Want More Shrimp Ideas?

If you love this creamy garlic paprika shrimp, you’ll probably enjoy these other shrimp favorites:

• Baked Stuffed Shrimp Casserole for a comforting and cheesy take.
• Honey Garlic Shrimp Sausage Broccoli with sweet and savory flavors.
• Marry Me Shrimp Pasta when you want pasta perfection.
• Creamy Garlic Marry Me Salmon if you’re a fan of creamy garlic sauce on fish too.
• Irresistible Sheet Pan Sausage and Sweet Potatoes for a different protein that also shines with garlic.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra smoky? Serve it over pasta or rice?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

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