Ingredients

Scale

For the Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon sweet paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Sauce:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
½ cup chicken broth (or seafood broth for extra flavor)
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (optional, for more spice)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

For Garnish & Serving:

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Extra Parmesan cheese for sprinkling
Serve with rice, pasta, or crusty bread

Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. The paprika will give the shrimp a rich, smoky flavor and a beautiful red hue when cooked.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly crispy. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic and Aromatics

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this adds incredible flavor!). Stir in the heavy cream, onion powder, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper, letting the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Lemon Juice

Lower the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce. Add fresh lemon juice to brighten up the flavors and give the dish a subtle citrusy kick.

Step 6: Return the Shrimp to the Skillet

Add the seared shrimp back to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes to soak up all the flavors.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to scoop up the creamy goodness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Nutrition

Calories: 420
Sugar: 3g
Fat: 27g
Carbohydrates: 9g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 35g