Name: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines succulent shrimp with a velvety sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The sun-dried tomatoes add a tangy sweetness, the spinach provides freshness, and the Parmesan cheese ties everything together with creamy richness. It’s quick to make, low in carbs, and can be served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Olive oil
Butter
Garlic (minced)
Sun-dried tomatoes (drained and chopped)
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Fresh spinach
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and cook the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add sun-dried tomatoes: Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Add spinach: Toss in the fresh spinach and stir until wilted.
Return shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and simmer in the sauce for 1–2 minutes to heat through. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.
Serve: Enjoy immediately over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Add mushrooms: Sauté sliced mushrooms with the garlic for an earthy twist.
Low-carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
Dairy-free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Chicken Tuscan style: Swap shrimp for boneless chicken breast or thighs.
Spicy version: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Avoid microwaving for long periods as shrimp can become rubbery when overcooked.

FAQs

What type of shrimp should I use?

Use large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined for the best texture and flavor.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine and reheat just before serving.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbs and fits well into a keto diet when not served with pasta or bread.

What can I serve with creamy Tuscan shrimp?

Serve it over pasta, mashed potatoes, rice, or with steamed veggies or crusty bread for dipping.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?

Simmer it a bit longer to reduce, or stir in extra Parmesan to thicken it naturally.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Heavy cream is best for a rich texture. Milk will result in a thinner sauce and may curdle with the tomatoes.

Are sun-dried tomatoes necessary?

They add key flavor, but you can substitute with fresh cherry tomatoes or roasted red peppers in a pinch.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but they should only be warmed in the sauce briefly to avoid overcooking.

How do I make it extra cheesy?

Add more Parmesan or stir in some shredded mozzarella for a cheesier finish.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a luxurious yet easy one-pan dish that delivers bold Italian flavors in every bite. With a luscious garlic cream sauce, juicy shrimp, and vibrant veggies, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for both busy weeknights and special dinners. Serve it however you like and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal with minimal effort.