Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a simple but delicious meal that brings together tender shrimp, a rich creamy sauce, and the smoky warmth of paprika. The garlic adds just…

By Willow • February 15, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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This Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a simple but delicious meal that brings together tender shrimp, a rich creamy sauce, and the smoky warmth of paprika. The garlic adds just the right kick, making every bite full of flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together quickly, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something a little special without a lot of fuss.

I love making this because it feels like a treat but is really straightforward. The shrimp cook fast and soak up that creamy, garlicky sauce so well. I usually toss in a handful of fresh herbs at the end to brighten it up, which gives it a fresh twist every time I make it. Plus, the paprika adds this beautiful color and smoky hint that makes it more exciting than your usual creamy shrimp.

My favorite way to enjoy this skillet is over a bed of fluffy rice or with crusty bread to soak up all the sauce. It’s a cozy meal that always gets “mmm” sounds around the table. It’s one of those dishes I keep coming back to when I want comfort food that feels a little bit special.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Large shrimp work great here because they cook quickly and hold their texture well. If you want, you can use smaller shrimp or even frozen, just thaw them first.

Paprika & Chili Powder: Smoked paprika adds a nice depth, while sweet paprika keeps it mild. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika is fine, but the flavor will be less intense. Chili powder is optional, so skip it if you want no heat.

Heavy Cream & Chicken Broth: Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. If you prefer lighter, try half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Chicken broth adds flavor; water works if you don’t have broth, just add a bit more seasoning.

Tomato Paste & Cherry Tomatoes: Tomato paste gives the sauce a nice tang and color. Cherry tomatoes add freshness and texture but regular diced tomatoes can substitute too.

Butter & Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for searing shrimp, while butter helps create a rich, garlicky base. You can use all olive oil or butter depending on your preference.

How Do I Get Perfectly Seared Shrimp without Overcooking?

Shrimp cook quickly, so searing them just right is key. Here’s how to nail it:

• Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to get a good sear and prevent steaming.
• Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat, then add olive oil.
• Cook shrimp about 2 minutes per side—watch for color change to pink and slight charring. Overcooked shrimp get rubbery fast.
• Remove shrimp while still a little underdone; they cook more in the sauce later.

This method ensures your shrimp stay tender and juicy in the creamy sauce.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet – perfect for searing shrimp evenly and cooking the sauce without sticking.
• Mixing bowl – handy for tossing shrimp with spices before cooking.
• Spoon or spatula – to stir garlic, tomatoes, and sauce gently without breaking the shrimp.
• Chef’s knife – for mincing garlic and chopping parsley or cilantro easily.
• Measuring spoons and cups – to get the spices, cream, and broth just right for balanced flavor.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap shrimp for scallops or chunks of chicken breast for a different protein, both cook quickly and soak up the sauce well.
• Add spinach or kale at the end for extra greens and a fresh touch that pairs well with creamy sauce.
• Use smoked sausage slices for a smoky twist and heartier bite that adds depth to the dish.
• Stir in a splash of lemon juice or zest to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness.

Creamy Garlic-Paprika Shrimp Skillet

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp sweet paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This tasty shrimp skillet takes about 20 minutes total — 5 minutes to prep the ingredients and about 15 minutes to cook everything. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for busy days.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Seasoning the Shrimp:

Start by tossing the peeled shrimp in a bowl with smoked paprika, sweet paprika, chili powder (if you like some heat), salt, and pepper. Make sure each shrimp is nicely coated with the spices.

2. Searing the Shrimp:

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and get a little charred. Take them out and set aside for now.

3. Making the Sauce:

In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Adding Cream and Tomato:

Stir in the tomato paste, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3 to 5 minutes until it thickens a bit.

5. Finishing the Dish:

Put the shrimp back in the skillet and stir them into the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm the shrimp through. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little extra kick. Sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.

Serve your creamy garlic-paprika shrimp hot with crusty bread, rice, or pasta — perfect for soaking up that yummy sauce!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly in a sealed bag submerged in cold water. Pat dry to avoid excess moisture during searing.

How Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Swap out the heavy cream and butter for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use olive oil instead of butter. The sauce will still be rich but with a slightly different flavor.

Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?

You can cook the shrimp and sauce separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove before combining to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm on the stove over low heat to keep the sauce creamy and the shrimp tender.