Name: Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet: A Flavorful Weeknight Win
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb peeled and deveined raw shrimp (Main protein source; substitute with chicken or salmon if desired.); 1 tsp sea salt (Divided; enhances flavor.); 3/4 tsp cracked black pepper (Divided; adds warmth and depth.); 3 Tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (Cooking fat that adds flavor.); 1 large shallot (Finely chopped; use onion if unavailable.); 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper (Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with other sweet peppers if necessary.); 4 cloves garlic (Minced; key flavor component.); 2 Tbsp tomato paste (Contributes richness and umami flavor.); 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (Adds heat; optional depending on spice preference.); 3/4 cup lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth (Liquid for sauce.); 2 tsp paprika (Adds smokiness and color.); 2 handfuls fresh baby spinach (Provides nutrition and color.); 1/2 cup heavy cream (Creates the creamy sauce.); 1-2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice (Brightens the dish.); 2 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley leaves (Garnish with freshness and color.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

As the golden sun begins to set, there’s something magical about the kitchen filled with the warm aroma of sizzling garlic and smoky paprika. That’s exactly what I experienced while whipping up this Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet—a quick and nutritious weeknight meal that dances between simplicity and vibrant flavor. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying dinner ready to bring to the table, with variations to suit your mood—feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or salmon. Plus, this dish is gluten-free and bursting with the goodness of fresh veggies, making it perfect for anyone craving comfort without the guilt. Curious how such a delightful dish comes together so swiftly? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is this recipe a must-try?

Simplicity at its Finest: This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet requires minimal prep and cooking time, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

Nutrient-Packed Goodness: Loaded with vibrant veggies like spinach and red bell peppers, it’s not just delicious but also nutritious.

Flavor Explosion: The rich, creamy garlic sauce paired with earthy paprika tantalizes your taste buds in every bite.

Versatile Makeover: Easily swap out shrimp for chicken or salmon—there’s a version for every palate!

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family dinners or gatherings; it’s a dish everyone will love, just like the delightful Breakfast Skillet Savor you can whip up next.

Quick Cleanup: Using just one skillet means less mess and more time to enjoy your delicious meal!

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Ingredients

For the Skillet
• 1 lb. peeled and deveined raw shrimp – Main protein source; substitute with chicken or salmon if desired.
• 1 tsp. sea salt (divided) – Enhances flavor; if using fine table salt, reduce to 3/4 tsp.
• 3/4 tsp. cracked black pepper (divided) – Adds warmth and depth.
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil – Cooking fat that adds flavor.
• 1 large shallot (finely chopped) – Aromatic base; use onion if unavailable.
• 1/2 cup finely chopped red bell pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch; substitute with other sweet peppers if necessary.
• 4 garlic cloves (minced) – Key flavor component; can increase for more garlic intensity.
• 2 Tbsp. tomato paste – Contributes richness and umami flavor.
• 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper flakes – Adds heat; optional depending on spice preference.
• 3/4 cup lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth – Liquid for sauce; adjust for preferred sodium level.
• 2 tsp. paprika – Adds smokiness and color; smoked paprika is a great alternative for deeper flavor.
• 2 handfuls fresh baby spinach – Provides nutrition and color; kale can be substituted if desired.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream – Creates the creamy sauce; substitute with coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
• 1-2 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (from 1 lemon) – Brightens the dish.
• 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley leaves – Garnish with freshness and color.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which ensures a nice sear. Season the shrimp with 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt and 3/8 teaspoon of cracked black pepper. This simple seasoning helps enhance the flavor of the shrimp in your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. Cook for 3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque on one side, then gently flip and cook for an additional minute until fully cooked. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the finely chopped shallot and red bell pepper to the skillet, cooking for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally, bringing out the sweetness of the vegetables, as they will provide a lovely base for your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Tomato Paste
Next, stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the garlic to become aromatic and the tomato paste to caramelize slightly. This step builds layers of flavor that enhance the overall taste of the dish.

Step 5: Deglaze the Pan
Pour in the lower-sodium vegetable or chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until the liquid is reduced by half. This concentrated broth will form a rich base for the sauce in your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet.

Step 6: Add Paprika and Spinach
Stir in the paprika and fresh baby spinach, cooking for 1-2 minutes or just until the spinach wilts. The vibrant color of the spinach adds nutrition and visual appeal to your dish as it melds perfectly with the other ingredients.

Step 7: Create the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Mix well and adjust the seasoning with the remaining salt and black pepper to your taste. Let it simmer gently for a couple of minutes – this creamy sauce is what makes your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet irresistibly delicious.

Step 8: Combine Shrimp and Garnish
Finally, nestle the cooked shrimp back into the skillet, allowing them to soak in the sauce. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet over rice, orzo, or with crusty bread for a truly delightful weeknight meal.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

As you prepare to delight your senses with this creamy, flavor-packed dish, consider pairing it with complementary sides that fill your table with warmth and comfort.

Fluffy Rice: A classic choice to soak up the luscious sauce while adding a soft texture to balance the shrimp’s tenderness.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttered slices provide a delicious crunch that perfectly complements the creamy sauce. A must for those who love to dip!
Fresh Garden Salad: Light and vibrant, a salad with mixed greens and a zesty vinaigrette gives a refreshing contrast to the richness of the skillet.
Herb-Infused Quinoa: Nutty quinoa offers a wholesome alternative, creating a protein-packed base that pairs beautifully with the flavors of garlic and paprika.
Roasted Veggies: Brimming with caramelized flavors, roasted seasonal vegetables add an earthy, roasted sweetness that enhances the entire meal.
Sparkling White Wine: A chilled glass serves as a delightful accompaniment, cutting through the richness and elevating your dining experience with every sip.

Each pairing brings its own unique flavors and textures to the table while ensuring your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is the star of the show!

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Variations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe—there are so many delightful ways to make it your own!

Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with sliced chicken breast for a heartier option. It will soak up the flavors beautifully.
Salmon Twist: Try using salmon fillets for a rich, flaky texture that compliments the creamy sauce perfectly. Pair with a squeeze of lemon for freshness.
Vegetable Medley: Add zucchini or asparagus for more colorful veggies. They’ll bring extra nutrition and a satisfying crunch to each bite.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or thyme to infuse a fragrant twist into the dish. Fresh herbs will elevate the flavors and aroma.
Smokey Flavor: For an earthy touch, swap regular paprika for smoked paprika, enhancing the dish with a captivating depth of flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious, dairy-free version. It adds a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with the other flavors.
Extra Heat: Kick up the spice level by increasing the crushed red pepper flakes or adding diced jalapeños for a fiery kick. Perfect for those who crave heat!
Serve it Differently: Instead of rice, try serving this savory skillet over orzo or even alongside sliced crusty bread to scoop up that creamy sauce, much like you would with Bang Bang Shrimp.

There’s more to discover in the kitchen! You can explore even further with a comforting Shrimp Steak Alfredo when you’re feeling adventurous. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Avoid Overcrowding: Ensure shrimp are not overcrowded in the skillet for even cooking and that perfect sear on every shrimp.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shallots, garlic, and peppers will maximize flavor. Don’t skimp on freshness for your Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet!

Adjust Spice: Modify the crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat. Start with a smaller amount; you can always add more later!

Thickening the Sauce: For a creamier sauce, feel free to add more heavy cream, adjusting to your preferred richness and texture.

Prep Ahead: Chop veggies and season shrimp in advance to streamline your cooking process, making this quick dinner even quicker!

Storage Tips for Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, allow the dish to cool before sealing.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for up to 3 months. Be aware that the texture of shrimp may change upon thawing.

Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. Enjoy this delightful dish warm!

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillets are perfect for busy home cooks who love meal prepping! You can season and store the shrimp in the refrigerator up to 24 hours in advance for convenience. Similarly, sauté the vegetables (shallots and bell peppers), then allow them to cool before refrigerating separately. For best quality, keep the heavy cream and spinach in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, simply combine the cooked shrimp and prepped vegetables in the skillet and add in the cream and spinach, letting it simmer until warm. This straightforward meal prep will ensure you enjoy a flavorful dish with minimal effort!

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for firm, translucent, and unblemished specimens. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, clean seawater scent, while frozen shrimp can be convenient but ensure they’re well-packaged without ice crystals, indicating they haven’t been thawed and refrozen. Sizes vary, but medium to large shrimp work best for this Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet, offering a nice balance between tender texture and robust flavor.

How should I store leftovers of my shrimp skillet?
Very good question! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep it looking and tasting fresh, let the dish cool down completely before sealing it. For longer storage, you can freeze the Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for up to 3 months, but make sure to thaw it in the refrigerator before reheating.

Can I freeze the shrimp skillet, and how would I do that?
Certainly! Freezing is a great option for meal prep. After cooking the dish, let it cool fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. To freeze effectively, divide the skillet into individual portions for easy reheating later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy goodness. The texture of the shrimp may change slightly, but the flavors remain delightful!

What if I can’t handle spicy food?
No worries at all! If you prefer a milder dish, simply omit the crushed red pepper flakes altogether, or adjust the quantity to your taste. The creamy garlic sauce itself is rich and flavorful, making it delicious even without the heat. Alternatively, you could swap in sweet paprika for a softer flavor profile while maintaining that beautiful smokiness.

Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of?
Great point! This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those who are sensitive to gluten. However, keep in mind any shellfish allergies if you or someone in your family is allergic to shrimp. Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or salmon, but ensure that the alternative protein is cooked all the way through for safety and enjoyment.