Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet: A Quick, Flavorful Weeknight Win 🍤🔥

This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is your go-to for a delicious, low-effort dinner that’s bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich, garlicky, and mildly spiced cream sauce, perfect for serving over rice or with crusty bread. With minimal prep and cleanup, this senior-friendly recipe is gentle on the joints and ready in under 20 minutes. Ideal for a cozy weeknight meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or pre-minced for ease)
- 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat; omit for mild)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked rice or crusty bread, for serving
Instructions
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. (~1 minute)
- Add Spices: Stir in sweet paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until aromatic. (~1 minute)
- Cook Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. (~5 minutes)
- Make Creamy Sauce: Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream (or coconut cream). Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. (~3 minutes)
- Season & Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately over cooked rice or with crusty bread for dipping. (~2 minutes)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
- Total Time: ~15–17 minutes
- Serves: 4
- Calories: Approx. 300–350 kcal per serving (without rice or bread)
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over fluffy rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Pair with crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Enjoy with a side salad or steamed veggies and a glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
- Senior-Friendly: No heavy chopping or complicated steps.
- Rich & Flavorful: Creamy, garlicky sauce with a touch of paprika warmth.
Optional Variations
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free sauce.
- Spicy Boost: Increase cayenne or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for more heat.
- Veggie Add-Ins: Toss in spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
Make this Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet for a fast, flavorful dinner that’s sure to impress! Share your creations in the comments or tag us on social media with #ShrimpSkillet #EasyRecipe #SeniorFriendlyRecipes #ComfortFood #DeliciousDinner. Let me know how it turns out—I’d love to see your pictures! 😍