Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, swirled into a velvety cream sauce, and finished with fresh spinach for color and balance—this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach is quick, elegant, and packed with flavor. Serve it over pasta, rice, or even crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the garlicky goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Rich and creamy with fresh, vibrant spinach.
Ready in 20 minutes from pan to plate.
Restaurant-quality flavor at home.
Low-carb and gluten-free friendly.
Easy enough for weeknights, fancy enough for guests.
Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach
Start strong with these must-have ingredients. Your taste buds will thank you.
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the stars of this dish. They cook quickly and soak up all the delicious flavors.
Olive Oil: A staple in many kitchens, olive oil adds richness and helps sauté the garlic without burning.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that aromatic base. It brings a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy and indulgent. For a lighter option, consider using half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative.
Fresh Spinach: Chopped spinach not only adds color but also a nutritious boost. It wilts beautifully in the sauce.
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they add a nice kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning, these will enhance all the flavors in your dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley is perfect for garnishing, adding a fresh touch to your finished dish.
Pasta or Rice: Serve your creamy shrimp over your choice of cooked pasta or rice for a complete meal.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Feel free to get creative with your ingredients, too! Adding bell peppers or mushrooms can enhance the flavor and nutrition even further.
How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach
Creating this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. Let’s dive in!
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about a minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful here; burnt garlic can ruin the dish. You want it golden, not brown!
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, toss in the shrimp. Season them with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They should turn pink and opaque. Once done, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. This step is crucial; you don’t want overcooked shrimp!
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream. Bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. Now, add the chopped spinach. Cook until it wilts, which should take about 2 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the cream and spinach create a luscious sauce!
Step 4: Combine and Heat
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the cream sauce, stirring until it melts and combines smoothly. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, mixing well to coat them in that creamy goodness. Heat everything through for another 2 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Step 5: Serve
Finally, serve your creamy garlic shrimp over a bed of cooked pasta or rice. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for that pop of color. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Tips for Success
Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
Don’t rush the garlic; sauté it gently to avoid burning.
Adjust the creaminess by mixing in chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
Experiment with different greens like kale or arugula for variety.
Keep the heat moderate to ensure even cooking of the shrimp.
Equipment Needed
Large Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best, but any large pan will do.
Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your skillet.
Measuring Cups: Handy for measuring cream and cheese.
Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for chopping garlic and spinach.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a plant-based twist.
Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
Cheesy Delight: Mix in a blend of cheeses, such as mozzarella or feta, for a richer taste.
Low-Carb Version: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
Serving Suggestions
Side Salad: Pair with a crisp Caesar or mixed greens salad for a refreshing contrast.
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Wine Pairing: A chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish beautifully.
Presentation: Serve in a shallow bowl, garnished with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
FAQs about Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Frozen shrimp can be just as delicious as fresh, especially when cooked properly.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a low-fat cream alternative. For a dairy-free version, try coconut milk or a cashew cream.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Bell peppers, mushrooms, or even zucchini can be great additions. Just sauté them along with the garlic for extra flavor.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach can be made ahead of time. Just keep the sauce and shrimp separate until you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Spinach is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy. The rich, creamy sauce enveloping the tender shrimp and vibrant spinach brings comfort to the table. Each bite is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, whether shared with family or enjoyed solo after a long day. This dish is a testament to how easy it can be to whip up something special. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the process, and let the flavors transport you to a cozy Italian kitchen. Enjoy every delicious moment!
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the Parmesan cheese to the cream mixture, stirring until melted and combined. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and mix well to coat in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Serve the creamy garlic shrimp over cooked pasta or rice, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with chicken broth or use a low-fat cream alternative.
Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
