As I stood in my kitchen, the rich aroma of garlic and butter began to swirl around me, instantly whisking me to the heart of Italy. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp – a dish that not only brings comfort to the dinner table but also fits seamlessly into a gluten-free, paleo, and low-carb lifestyle. In just 30 minutes, you can whip up this engaging meal that boasts minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. With its creamy texture and delightful garlicky punch, this shrimp dish will make your taste buds sing. So, are you ready to dive into a vibrant culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this shrimp recipe a must-try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp is a breeze to prepare, making it perfect for any home cook. Rich, Satisfying Flavors: Infused with garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, each bite is a burst of deliciousness. Diet-Friendly: It’s gluten-free, paleo, and low-carb, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy it. Minimal Cleanup: Cooking and serving from the same pan makes for easy cleanup. Versatile Options: Swap shrimp for chicken or serve it over your favorite pasta for a delightful twist. Whether you’re craving a cozy night in or hosting friends, this dish delivers comfort and flavor all in one.
One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp Ingredients
• Ready to create something delicious? Let’s gather our ingredients!
For the Sauce
- Grass-Fed Butter or Ghee – Adds richness and flavor to the dish. Substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic – Provides a fragrant base, crucial for the sauce. Use minced fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Bone Broth (Chicken) – Enhances the savory profile. Regular chicken broth can also be used.
- Canned Coconut Milk – Creates a creamy texture, ideal for paleo diets. Use heavy cream or half & half if not adhering to dairy-free diets.
- Nutritional Yeast – Adds a cheesy flavor without dairy. Omit if not needed, but it complements the dish beautifully.
For the Shrimp
- Large Shrimp – The main protein source; deveined with tails on for presentation. Ensure shrimp are thawed and patted dry before cooking for optimal texture.
For the Vegetables
- Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the flavor. Can be swapped with shallots for a milder taste.
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Introduces tanginess and texture; can be omitted for a simpler dish. Save some oil for cooking.
- Spinach – Provides color and nutrients, wilts down significantly. If greens are not preferred, reduce the amount or replace with another leafy green.
For Seasoning
- Italian Seasoning – Offers a blend of herbs complementing the shrimp; can be substituted with individual herbs like basil and oregano.
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – Enhances the overall flavors; adjust to taste.
Now that we have everything ready, let’s dive into the cooking process and create your One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp dish!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Sauté the Garlic
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter or ghee. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let it burn. The skillet should start to glisten with a golden hue as the garlic releases its aromas, setting the stage for your One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Add 1 pound of large, deveined shrimp to the skillet, ensuring they are patted dry for optimal cooking. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and curl slightly, indicating perfect doneness. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside in a bowl, allowing the buttery garlic flavor to linger in the pan.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion
Increase the heat to medium-high and add 1 diced yellow onion to the same skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Make sure to scrape the brown bits from the bottom of the pan to infuse your dish with deeper flavors. The lovely aroma of sweet onion will fill your kitchen as you prepare for the next steps.
Step 4: Add the Broth
Pour in 1 cup of bone broth, stirring to combine, and allow it to simmer for a few moments. You want to reduce the liquid by at least 50%, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This reduction will concentrate the flavors, creating a delicious base for the One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp.
Step 5: Incorporate the Tomatoes
Next, drizzle in the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes and add ½ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the tomatoes have softened. This step adds a delightful tangy accent that complements the garlic shrimp beautifully.
Step 6: Make it Creamy
Stir in 1 cup of canned coconut milk and 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer. The coconut milk should give the sauce its creamy texture, enveloping the ingredients in a rich flavor that’s characteristic of the One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp.
Step 7: Add the Spinach
Fold in about 3 cups of fresh spinach into the sauce, stirring until it wilts down, which should take about 2 minutes. The vibrant green will brighten the dish, adding both color and nutritional value. The sauce will thicken slightly as the spinach integrates, rounding out the inviting flavors.
Step 8: Return the Shrimp
Finally, return the previously cooked shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, kosher salt, and black pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, allowing the shrimp to absorb the creamy goodness of the sauce. You’ll know it’s ready when the shrimp are heated through and the sauce clings beautifully to each piece.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp over cauliflower rice or your favorite grains, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley and lemon wedges. The stunning presentation and enticing aroma will surely draw everyone to the table, making this dish a perfect centerpiece for any meal.
One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and personalize it to suit your flavor preferences and dietary needs!
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Chicken Swap: Use diced chicken breast instead of shrimp for a hearty twist. Cook until golden for a different protein experience.
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Pasta Paradise: Serve this dish over your favorite pasta, like spaghetti or fettuccine, for a comforting, traditional meal. The creamy sauce envelops the pasta beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes while cooking for a zesty touch. The heat will awaken your taste buds and add excitement to the dish.
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Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute coconut milk with heavy cream or half & half if you’re not adhering to a dairy-free diet. Cream brings a rich, silky texture.
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Add Veggies: Keep it colorful by swapping spinach for broccoli or zucchini. This adds a crunchy texture and increases nutritional value.
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Herb Infusion: Replace Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a fragrant update. Fresh herbs can elevate the dish to a whole new level of flavor.
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Locale Twist: Serve with cilantro-lime cauliflower rice instead of plain for a vibrant Mexican flair. The zesty twist plays beautifully against the creamy sauce.
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Cajun Inspiration: Mix in a Cajun seasoning blend for a New Orleans-inspired flavor journey. It’s a fun way to crank up the warmth and savoriness!
No matter how you decide to customize your One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp, know that it’s bound to bring love and satisfaction to your table. And if you’re in the mood for more shrimp recipes, consider trying Sheet Pan Garlic or Pan Seared Chimichurri for even more delicious inspiration!
How to Store and Freeze One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp in an airtight container, and it will keep well for up to 4-5 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to preserve the creamy texture.
Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze the shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently.
Separately: For best results, store the sauce and shrimp separately, as it can help maintain the quality of both components during storage.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to the skillet to help revive the creamy sauce consistency and avoid it becoming too thick.
Make Ahead Options
You can easily prepare components of the One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp up to 24 hours in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights! Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also chop the onion, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes ahead of time, sealing them separately to maintain freshness. For added convenience, cook the sauce (without the spinach and shrimp) and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, simply reheat the sauce in a skillet, add the spinach and shrimp, and follow the finishing steps. This simple prep means you’ll have a rich and creamy dish ready in minutes, without sacrificing quality!
Expert Tips for One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- Shrimp Preparation: Always ensure shrimp are completely dry before cooking. This prevents excess moisture from thinning your creamy sauce.
- Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking shrimp to retain their tender texture; they only need about 2 minutes per side until opaque.
- Flavor Boost: Don’t skip the reduction step with the broth; it intensifies the flavors that make this One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp irresistible.
- Creamy Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a teaspoon of arrowroot powder with cold water and stir it into the skillet at the end of cooking.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to substitute spinach with kale or Swiss chard, or omit greens entirely if preferred.
What to Serve with One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Elevate your dining experience with delightful sides that harmonize beautifully with this creamy shrimp dish.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes provides a comforting contrast to the shrimp’s robust flavors, making each bite a delight.
- Garlic Bread: Warm, toasty garlic bread makes for the perfect vessel to soak up the rich sauce left on your plate. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints.
- Zesty Lemon Asparagus: The freshness of asparagus, lightly sautéed and finished with a squeeze of lemon, brightens the meal and complements the garlic shrimp splendidly.
- Steamed Broccoli: This green veggie offers a crunchy texture that balances the creamy sauce, plus it’s packed with nutrients to round out your meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve your creamy shrimp over cauliflower rice. This creates a fulfilling yet light dish that stays aligned with dietary goals.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the shrimp, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances every bite.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc harmonizes perfectly, as its acidity brightens the dish and highlights the flavors of the shrimp.
- Chocolate Mousse: End your meal with a light, airy chocolate mousse for a touch of elegance, providing a sweet contrast to the garlic shrimp’s savory profile.
One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, opt for large, deveined shrimp with tails on for a beautiful presentation. Look for shrimp that feel firm and have a slight ocean scent. Avoid any that have a strong fishy odor or are mushy, as this indicates they may not be fresh.
How should I store leftover One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
To store your delicious leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 4-5 days. Gently reheat them in a skillet over low heat for best results, adding a splash of broth or water to maintain creaminess.
Can I freeze One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp?
Yes, you can! I recommend freezing the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers to maintain quality. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently to preserve its tenderness.
What if my sauce turns out too thin?
No worries! If you find your sauce too thin, you can make a quick arrowroot slurry. Mix 1 teaspoon of arrowroot powder with 2 teaspoons of cold water, then stir it into the sauce while simmering. Allow it to cook for another minute or two until the sauce thickens beautifully.
Is this dish safe for pets?
Generally, this recipe isn’t suitable for pets, as certain ingredients like garlic can be toxic to dogs and cats. It’s best to enjoy this One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp yourself and keep your furry friends safe with pet-friendly treats!
What dietary restrictions does this recipe meet?
This dish is excellent for a variety of dietary needs! It’s gluten-free, paleo, low-carb, and Whole30 compliant, making it a delicious choice for anyone looking for a healthy yet flavorful meal.
One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp to Savor in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter or ghee. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they are opaque and curled. Remove from skillet.
- Increase heat to medium-high, add the diced onion, and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
- Pour in the bone broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until reduced by 50%.
- Add the oil from sun-dried tomatoes and chopped tomatoes to the skillet, sauté for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in the coconut milk and nutritional yeast, bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Fold in the fresh spinach, stirring until it wilts down, about 2 minutes.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet, season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes.
- Serve over cauliflower rice or grains, garnishing with parsley and lemon wedges.
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