Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.2 from 12 reviews

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and creamy sauce infused with garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese. Perfectly paired with pasta or crusty bread, this 20-minute recipe delivers a delightful Italian-inspired meal that's both comforting and elegant.

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Shrimp and Garlic

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6-8 garlic cloves, minced or finely chopped
  • 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Vegetables and Seasonings

  • 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup sun-dried tomato strips (not packed in oil, about 3 ounces)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 3 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, finely chopped

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving

Pasta (Optional)

  • 12 ounces pasta, cooked until al dente and drained
  • 1/2 - 1 cup reserved pasta cooking water

Instructions

  1. Cook garlic: In a large skillet over low heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent browning and to release the garlic's aroma.
  2. Cook shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Increase the skillet to medium heat, add the shrimp, and cook for about 2 minutes on one side and 1 minute on the other until the shrimp start turning pink. Transfer the shrimp to a plate—it’s okay if they aren’t fully cooked yet.
  3. Sauté onion: In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally.
  4. Add sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in the sun-dried tomato strips and cook for 2 minutes to release their flavor and soften.
  5. Create the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, water or vegetable broth, and sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over low heat, cooking while stirring frequently to thicken the sauce slightly.
  6. Add spinach and Parmesan: Add fresh baby spinach leaves to the skillet and allow them to wilt in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until combined, then taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
  7. Finish shrimp: Return the partially cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the fresh chopped basil and gently stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes until shrimp are fully cooked and tender.
  8. Serve: Serve the creamy Tuscan shrimp immediately with crusty bread or toss with the cooked pasta.
  9. If serving with pasta: Add the cooked pasta directly into the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly. Add reserved pasta cooking water a little at a time to keep the pasta creamy and saucy.

Notes

  • Be careful not to brown the garlic to avoid bitterness.
  • Shrimp should be slightly undercooked when first removed, as they finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Using sun-dried tomatoes not packed in oil prevents excess oiliness in the sauce.
  • Adjust cream and broth quantities if you prefer a thicker or more saucy consistency.
  • Reserve pasta cooking water to help create a silky sauce when combining with pasta.
  • Serve with extra Parmesan and fresh basil for garnish.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/creamy-tuscan-shrimp-recipe/