Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe

If weeknight dinner plans ever need saving, my Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet always comes to the rescue! It’s one of those irresistible meals that tastes indulgent, looks gorgeous in the pan, and yet comes together in just 30 minutes. You get plump, juicy shrimp, a lush garlicky sauce tinged with paprika and cream, and enough color to make your kitchen feel like a Mediterranean café.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What I love most about this Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is how it leans on simple ingredients—most of which you probably have on hand. Each one adds something unique, from creamy richness to lively pops of color and bold, savory flavor. Here’s what you’ll need to make dinner magic:

• Shrimp (1 lb., peeled and deveined): The star of the show! Fresh or frozen, just be sure to pat them dry so they pan-sear beautifully.
• Sea salt & black pepper: Essential for seasoning the shrimp every step of the way—bring out their sweetness.
• Extra-virgin olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything sauté to golden perfection.
• Shallot (1 large): Its delicate, mild flavor melts into the sauce and makes it feel fancy.
• Red bell pepper: For a sweet crunch and a pop of vibrant color that brightens up the whole dish.
• Garlic (4 cloves): Don’t hold back! Garlic infuses every bite with addictive aroma and flavor.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce’s depth and gives that beautiful brick-red hue.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Just a hint for subtle warmth and a little kick—not spicy, just irresistible.
• Vegetable or chicken broth: Deglazes the pan, making sure every bit of flavor ends up in your sauce.
• Paprika: Smoky, sweet, and totally essential for the backbone of flavor here!
• Fresh baby spinach: Wilts perfectly into the sauce for color, nutrients, and a little earthy freshness.
• Heavy cream: The magic touch that gives the sauce its dreamy, velvety finish.
• Fresh lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness of the cream, bringing the dish to life.
• Chopped fresh parsley: For a fresh pop of flavor and gorgeous green finish.
• Rice, orzo, or crusty bread: The perfect partners for soaking up every last drop of that luscious sauce!

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is how easy it is to make it your own. Play around with swaps and additions to fit your mood, dietary needs, or whatever you need to use up in the fridge!

• Make It Dairy-Free: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or your favorite unsweetened dairy-free alternative. It’ll still be luscious!
• Boost the Veggies: Throw in a handful of mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes along with the bell pepper for extra flavor and color.
• Turn Up the Heat: Add a pinch more red pepper flakes or swap in hot smoked paprika if you like things spicy.
• Try a Different Protein: This technique works beautifully with scallops or chunks of firm white fish (like cod) if you’re out of shrimp.

How to Make Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Step 1: Season and Sear the Shrimp

Start by giving your shrimp a good pat with paper towels to make sure they’re super dry—this helps them sear rather than steam. Season the shrimp on both sides with half the sea salt and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, and when the oil shimmers, add your shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Sear for about 3 minutes on the first side, flip, and cook 1 more minute until opaque and just firm. Transfer to a plate; they’ll finish in the sauce later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Lower the heat to medium and splash in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the chopped shallot and diced red bell pepper, stirring for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. Next, toss in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and red pepper flakes. Stir well and cook another 2 to 3 minutes—this is when the tomato paste caramelizes for that deep, complex base.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Pour in your broth, scraping up any browned bits that are clinging to the bottom of the pan (hello, flavor!). Bring everything to a gentle simmer and let it reduce for about 5 minutes, which concentrates the taste. Now sprinkle in the paprika and add your spinach, stirring until the leaves have wilted right into the sauce.

Step 4: Finish with Cream and Lemon

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the fresh lemon juice, as well as the rest of your salt and pepper. Let the sauce bubble gently for a minute so everything melds together—the color will turn irresistibly dreamy.

Step 5: Return Shrimp and Serve

Finally, nestle your perfectly cooked shrimp back into the skillet, turning them to coat in that lush, fragrant sauce. Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of green and freshness. Serve the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet straight from the pan with your favorite side—you’ll want extra bread for dunking!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Garnishes

A shower of fresh chopped parsley is my go-to garnish for this skillet—it makes every plate pop and adds a needed touch of brightness. A little extra squeeze of lemon right before serving will wake up the whole dish, while a dusting of smoked paprika over the top is super pretty (and amps up the flavor even more!).

Side Dishes

This creamy, saucy shrimp begs for something to soak it up. I love it piled over fluffy rice, creamy orzo, or even tangled into pasta. Crusty bread is a must for sopping up every last bit of sauce—trust me, you won’t want to leave anything behind!

Creative Ways to Present

For a playful, tapas-style gathering, serve the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet straight from the pan with little forks or toothpicks for dipping and sharing. Or nestle individual portions in shallow bowls atop orzo and finish each with a swirl of cream and a sprinkle of parsley for dinner party elegance!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet can be tucked into an airtight container and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce stays lush, and the shrimp reheat surprisingly well, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to!

Freezing

If you need to freeze leftovers, let the dish cool completely first, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. The flavor stays incredible for up to three months, though the shrimp may be a bit softer after thawing—but the creamy paprika sauce is just as fabulous.

Reheating

For best results, gently reheat the shrimp and sauce in a nonstick skillet over medium heat, stirring and adding a splash of extra broth or lemon juice to refresh the flavors. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too: just reheat in short bursts, stirring between each, to keep the shrimp nice and tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet to your dinner table! With its craveable flavors and comforting, velvety sauce, it’s a meal that makes any occasion feel special—yet it’s easy enough for any weeknight. Let me know how you served yours, and happy cooking!

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