This creamy garlic butter Tuscan shrimp is a delicious mix of shrimp, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes in a rich sauce. It’s quick to make and full of flavor!
Every bite feels like a cozy hug. I serve it over pasta, and let’s be real: it’s hard to resist going back for seconds! Who can say no to buttery goodness? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are key for this dish. If fresh isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well too—just make sure they’re thawed before cooking. For a non-seafood option, you could swap in cooked chicken or even mushrooms for a vegetarian dish.
Bacon: Bacon adds a wonderful smokiness. If you’re looking for a healthier choice, turkey bacon can be used. For a vegetarian variant, coconut bacon or simply omitting it can still yield tasty results.
Heavy Cream: This is what makes the sauce creamy! If you prefer a lighter option, use coconut milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind it will change the flavor slightly.
Spinach: Baby spinach is super easy and tender. If you have kale or arugula, either can be substituted, but you may need to cook them a bit longer since they are sturdier.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor. If you don’t have it, Pecorino Romano makes a suitable alternative. Nutritional yeast can also be a great substitute for a vegan option!
How Do I Ensure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll nail it! The key is not to overcook them, as they get tough quickly.
- Use a hot skillet. Start cooking the shrimp in a pre-heated skillet for consistent cooking.
- Keep it simple! Season with salt and pepper right before cooking.
- Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, typically around 2 minutes per side. Remove them promptly to avoid overcooking!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked shrimp that keep their tender texture and flavor! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, typically Tuscan)
- 1 1/2 cups baby spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional for added Tuscan flavor)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough for guests. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping and about 20 minutes cooking. So, let’s get started on this creamy, delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. This should take around 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, but keep the bacon fat in the skillet for added flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter to the skillet with the bacon fat. Allow it to melt and get hot. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside as well.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, toss in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, just until it gets fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4. Add the Tomatoes:
If you’re using cherry tomatoes, add them in now along with the sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté everything together for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir everything to combine well. Let the sauce simmer for around 3-5 minutes until it thickens up a bit.
6. Stir in the Cheese and Seasoning:
Now it’s time to stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and sprinkle the Italian seasoning. Adjust the taste with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice!
7. Add the Spinach:
Add the baby spinach to the skillet and cook it for about 1-2 minutes, just until it wilts down nicely.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon to the skillet. Gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are coated in that luscious creamy sauce, heating everything through for about 1-2 minutes.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish your dish with some chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately. This creamy garlic butter Tuscan shrimp goes wonderfully with crusty bread, over pasta, or served with steamed rice. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp beforehand. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quicker method, put them in a sealed bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even coconut milk. Keep in mind that using coconut milk will add a slight coconut flavor to the dish.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave while stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
What Should I Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Tuscan Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
