This Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp is a treat! With juicy shrimp in a rich and creamy sauce, it’s bursting with flavor thanks to garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach.
Seriously, who can resist shrimp swimming in garlic and butter? I love serving it over pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up all that goodness. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, fresh or frozen shrimp. If you have a shellfish allergy, chicken can be a good alternative. Just make sure it’s cooked through!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes: These add a delicious tang. If they’re not available, you could use fresh tomatoes, but you may want to cook them down a bit more for the same depth of flavor.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or coconut milk. This will alter the flavor slightly, but it still works well!
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach gives a lovely color and nutrition boost. Kale or arugula can be substituted, but cook them a bit longer to soften.
How Do I Get the Shrimp Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right can be tricky! Here’s the secret:
- Always use a hot skillet; it ensures the shrimp gets a nice sear.
- Cook shrimp for just 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so watch closely!
- If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them before cooking to ensure even cooking.
You’ll be serving perfectly cooked shrimp in no time!
Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably oil-packed)
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to cook. In just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, delicious meal ready to impress your family or guests!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, season them with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Add Flavorful Ingredients:
Next, add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for another 1-2 minutes to let their flavorful oils release into the mixture. This step is key for adding depth to your sauce!
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream while stirring to combine everything well. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Add Spinach and Seasoning:
Now, toss in the fresh baby spinach and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts down, which takes about 2 minutes. You’ll love how vibrant this makes the dish!
6. Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir them gently to coat with the creamy sauce. Heat everything together for another 1-2 minutes, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your delicious shrimp with fresh parsley before serving. This creamy garlic butter Tuscan shrimp pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a side of crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy this restaurant-quality dish right at home!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your creamy, garlicky Tuscan shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to properly thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly by placing them in a sealed plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
For a dairy-free version, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a plant-based cream alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them along with the onion and garlic until softened before adding the cream and spinach. Enjoy the variety!