When the chaos of the week leaves me yearning for a cozy, comforting meal, there’s one dish that never fails to deliver: Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet. Picture this: succulent shrimp sizzling in a rich, velvety sauce infused with garlic and smoky paprika, paired with vibrant red peppers and the freshness of spinach. Each bite feels like a warm hug, and the zest of lemon at the end teases your palate just enough to keep you coming back for more.
This delightful meal not only brings restaurant-quality indulgence to your table but does so in just 30 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. Whether you stick with shrimp or mix it up with chicken or salmon, this dish promises a burst of flavor that’ll revive your love for home-cooked meals. Join me as we dive into this easy yet impressive recipe that will surely impress family and friends alike!
Why is Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet a Must-Try?
Quick Preparation: This recipe is all about speed, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: The smoky paprika and garlic create a rich, aromatic sauce that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp, making every bite a delight.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize by swapping shrimp with chicken or salmon, letting you enjoy this dish in different ways every time.
Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Packed with spinach and bell peppers, this skillet meal is not only tasty but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for health-conscious eaters.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether it’s family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
Don’t miss out on other delightful quick dinner recipes that bring joy to your kitchen!
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb. peeled and deveined raw shrimp – The star of our dish; feel free to substitute with chicken or salmon for variety.
For the Seasoning
• 1 tsp. sea salt (divided) – Enhances the natural flavors; reduce amount if using fine salt.
• 3/4 tsp. cracked black pepper (divided) – Adds a bit of heat; adjust according to your taste.
For Sautéing
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and is perfect for searing; other cooking oils work too.
• 1 large shallot, finely chopped (about 1/2 cup) – Adds sweet and savory depth; onions can be a good alternative.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper – Brings color and sweetness; feel free to swap with other bell pepper varieties.
For the Flavor Base
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – A key flavor component; adjust based on how much you love garlic!
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste – Adds umami and depth; use sparingly to keep the sauce creamy.
• 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes – Introduces heat; omit for a milder result.
For the Sauce
• 3/4 cup lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth – Provides moisture; homemade or store-bought will work well.
• 2 tsp. paprika – The signature spice; smoked paprika offers an extra layer of flavor.
• 2 handfuls fresh baby spinach – Brings freshness and vital nutrients; kale or other greens can be used as a substitute.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Adds that creamy texture; consider half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter touch.
• 1-2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice – Brightens dish flavors; adjust according to preference.
For Garnishing
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves – Adds freshness to the dish; any herbs you love can work here.
Serving Suggestions
• Cooked orzo or rice, or crusty bread – Delicious serving options; use your favorite carbs for a complete meal.
Get ready for a culinary experience that will leave everyone at the table asking for seconds! Enjoy the wonderful world of flavors with your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet while taking your midweek dinners up a notch!
How to Make Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet
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Prepare Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, then season them with 1/2 tsp. of sea salt and black pepper. This simple step ensures they are flavorful and ready to shine in the skillet.
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Sear Shrimp: Heat 2 Tbsp. of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes. Flip them over and cook for an additional minute until they are opaque and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
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Sauté Vegetables: Lower the heat to medium, then add the remaining olive oil, shallots, and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallots are translucent and the peppers are tender.
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Add Aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the garlic begins to turn golden.
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Deglaze & Simmer: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth to deglaze the skillet, scraping any tasty browned bits off the bottom. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture is reduced by half.
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Finish Sauce: Add the paprika and fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring for 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts. Then, pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring well. Season with the remaining salt and pepper to taste.
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Combine & Serve: Carefully return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing in the sauce until well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving over cooked orzo, rice, or with crusty bread.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of additional paprika for extra flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and refrigerate the shrimp for up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Additionally, you can chop the shallots and bell peppers and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, avoid cooking the shrimp or adding cream until just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy this comforting dish, simply sear the shrimp and sauté the prepped vegetables before deglazing and finishing the sauce. This way, you can savor a delicious, homemade dinner with minimal effort during your busy week!
How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to maintain the creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze in a well-sealed container for up to 3 months. The shrimp’s texture may change slightly upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore richness and prevent drying out. Stir frequently until heated through.
Note: If freezing, it’s recommended to omit the spinach and add it fresh when reheating to ensure optimal texture and flavor in your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet.
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Variations
Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp for chicken breast, adjusting the cooking time until it’s fully cooked and juicy.
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Salmon Switch: Use salmon fillets instead of shrimp, cooking them until they flake beautifully in the sauce. The richness of salmon adds a delicious twist!
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Gluten-Free Pasta: Replace orzo with gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs while keeping the meal comforting and satisfying.
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Extra Veggies: Enhance nutrition by adding chopped zucchini or asparagus. The additional crunch and color make the dish even more appealing.
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Spice it Up: For extra heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced fresh chili. Just a little kick makes each bite even more exciting!
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Creamy Vegan Variation: Use firm tofu instead of shrimp and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a hearty vegan alternative.
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Herb Boost: Incorporate fresh basil or cilantro in place of parsley to elevate the flavor profile and add a fresh aroma to your dish.
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Smoky Flavor: Switch to smoked paprika to bring a deeper, more robust flavor that adds a wonderful depth to your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet.
These variations provide endless opportunities to personalize this delightful recipe, turning your culinary experience into something truly special every time!
Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet
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Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Pat your shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure they sear nicely and avoid steaming in the skillet.
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Mind the Heat: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cooking in batches helps achieve that ideal golden sear on the shrimp without steaming.
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Season Wisely: Adjust the heat from the crushed red pepper flakes to your liking, especially if cooking for kids or heat-averse friends.
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Creamy Consistency: If you desire an even creamier sauce, add a little more heavy cream at the end. Be sure to taste test for flavor balance.
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Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and herbs whenever possible—this enhances the aromatic profile of the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for a delightful meal.
What to Serve with Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet?
Every delightful bite of this creamy dish deserves a companion that enhances its charm and flavor.
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Fluffy Rice: A classic pairing that soaks up the luscious sauce beautifully, making each mouthful satisfying and complete.
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Buttery Orzo: This tender pasta brings a light and delightful texture that harmonizes perfectly with the rich creamy sauce, creating an elegant meal.
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Crusty Bread: The ideal vessel for scooping up that heavenly sauce. A warm, freshly baked loaf adds a comforting touch and accentuates the dish’s flavors.
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Garlic Butter Broccoli: The slight crunch and vibrant color of steamed broccoli with garlic butter create a fresh contrast to the creamy shrimp, balancing richness with verdant brightness.
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Light Garden Salad: Crisp greens vinaigrette serve as a refreshing counterpoint to the rich shrimp dish, cleansing the palate between bites.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled Chardonnay offers a fruity and slightly buttery taste that pairs exquisitely with the rich flavors, elevating the meal’s overall experience.
Make your meal unforgettable by combining these options with your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for an enticing culinary journey!
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent flesh with a slight sea scent. Ideally, choose shrimp that are labeled as “wild-caught” if possible, as they often taste fresher. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re peeled and deveined for convenience.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Very simple! Store leftover Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a touch of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze this dish, and how should I do it?
Yes! You can freeze the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for up to 3 months. To do so, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion. It’s best to omit spinach before freezing; add it freshly when reheating to preserve the texture.
What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If you find the sauce too thick after cooking, simply add a splash of chicken or vegetable broth while stirring over low heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This will help you achieve that perfect creamy texture without losing flavor.
Is this dish suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This recipe does contain shellfish, which is a common allergen. To accommodate individuals with allergies, you can easily substitute shrimp with chicken or salmon. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on your chosen protein.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some elements ahead. Chop veggies and season the shrimp a day before. Store everything in separate containers in the fridge and assemble just before cooking—it will take you about 30 minutes to whip everything up!
Let me know if you have any other questions about your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet recipe!
Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for an Easy Weeknight Win
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, then season with 1/2 tsp. of sea salt and black pepper.
- Heat 2 Tbsp. of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 3 minutes, then flip and cook for an additional minute until cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium, add remaining olive oil, shallots, and red bell pepper; sauté for 3-4 minutes until shallots are translucent.
- Stir in minced garlic, tomato paste, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in broth to deglaze skillet, scraping browned bits. Simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced by half.
- Add paprika and fresh spinach, stirring until spinach wilts. Pour in heavy cream and lemon juice, stirring well.
- Return shrimp to skillet, tossing in sauce. Garnish with parsley before serving.