This Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty meal that comes together in just one pan! Juicy shrimp cooked with bell peppers and onions in a warm paprika sauce make every bite special.
It’s super easy to whip up, and trust me, the aroma alone will make your family come running! I love serving it over rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh large shrimp work best for this recipe, but frozen shrimp is a great alternative. Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking! If you’re not a shrimp fan, chicken or tofu could work well, too.
Olive Oil: I love using extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor. However, you can substitute with vegetable oil or butter if that’s what you have on hand.
Paprika: Smoked paprika adds a rich, smoky flavor that is key to this dish. If you only have sweet paprika, you can use it, but smoke will add that extra depth. You can also mix in a tiny bit of liquid smoke for a similar effect.
Cream: Heavy cream lends a lovely richness, but using coconut milk gives a lighter feel and is great for dairy-free diets. You can even skip the cream entirely for a lighter dish, adding extra tomatoes instead.
Bell Pepper: Red pepper is sweeter, but feel free to use yellow or green if that’s what you have. In a pinch, diced zucchini or mushrooms also work.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but with a few simple tips, you’ll get it just right! The key is not to overcook them – they’ll become rubbery if you do. Here’s how to get that perfect bite:
- Start cooking shrimp in a hot skillet. They should sizzle when added.
- Cook for only 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. This usually takes just a few minutes.
- As soon as they’re done, remove them from the skillet; they’ll continue cooking a bit from the residual heat.
How to Make Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Paprika Shrimp Skillet takes approximately 10 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to create this flavorful dish. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Skillet:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil is nice and hot before adding the shrimp so they cook quickly!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt, pepper, and 1 tsp of smoked paprika. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side, or until they are pink and just cooked through. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Add Garlic and Spices:
Now, add the minced garlic, the remaining paprika, ground cumin, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 30 seconds until the spices are fragrant.
5. Add Tomatoes:
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps to blend all the flavors together.
6. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the heavy cream (or coconut milk) and stir to combine everything. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally.
7. Bring Back the Shrimp:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow the shrimp to soak up all the yummy flavors.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat, then sprinkle fresh parsley over the top. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish hot with lemon wedges on the side, perfect for squeezing on top. Enjoy this delightful meal over rice, pasta, or with some crusty bread to really enjoy that creamy sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely beforehand. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by putting them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, which will give a nice flavor while keeping it dairy-free. You can also use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a similar consistency in taste.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you enjoy a little heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper to your liking or adding some red pepper flakes. You could also use spicy smoked paprika instead of regular smoked paprika for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream to help maintain the creamy texture.
