The Ultimate Guide to Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Introduction
If you’re looking for a restaurant-quality dinner that’s both luxurious and effortless, this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with rich garlic parmesan sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and wilted spinach, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes—and it tastes like something you’d order at a fancy bistro.
This is the kind of one-skillet seafood recipe that wins over shrimp lovers and creamy pasta fans alike. The balance of rich cream, zesty garlic, and vibrant tomatoes creates a sauce that clings beautifully to shrimp, and can easily be served over pasta, rice, or low-carb zoodles for a lighter version.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or making a weeknight dinner extra special, this Tuscan-style shrimp dish never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Shrimp
- 🍤 Quick & Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes with minimal prep.
- 🍅 Rich Yet Fresh – Sun-dried tomatoes and spinach balance the creamy sauce.
- 🧄 Bold Garlic Flavor – Infuses the whole dish without overpowering it.
- 🍽️ Versatile – Serve over pasta, mashed cauliflower, or crusty bread.
- 🧑🍳 One Pan – Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
What Is Tuscan Shrimp?
Inspired by flavors from central Italy, Tuscan shrimp is typically made with garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy parmesan sauce. It’s not a traditional Tuscan recipe but rather a modern Italian-American creation that captures the heart of Tuscan ingredients with added indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This dish keeps things simple but flavorful. Here’s what goes into the creamy Tuscan shrimp:
Protein:
- Shrimp – Large or jumbo, peeled and deveined (tails optional). Fresh or thawed frozen shrimp both work.
Sauce:
- Butter – For sautéing and richness.
- Garlic – Minced for aromatic depth.
- Heavy Cream – The base of the creamy sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, cheesy body to the sauce.
Flavor Boosters:
- Sun-Dried Tomatoes – Packed with umami and tang.
- Spinach – Fresh leaves that wilt into the sauce.
- Italian Seasoning – A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme.
- Salt & Pepper – Adjust to taste.
- Optional Red Pepper Flakes – For a gentle kick.
Choosing the Right Shrimp
Fresh or frozen shrimp can be used here. If using frozen, thaw them thoroughly before cooking. Shrimp cook quickly, so watch for that signature opaque pink color—they’re done in minutes!
Look for medium to large shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 per pound) for the best bite and presentation.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, sprinkle with a bit of salt, and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque. Remove them and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic & Tomatoes
Add a little more butter or oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then stir in the sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and stir in grated parmesan. Add Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer gently until slightly thickened.
Step 4: Add Spinach
Toss in fresh spinach leaves and stir until wilted—about 1 minute.
Step 5: Return the Shrimp
Add the cooked shrimp back into the sauce and spoon it over to coat. Let everything warm through for another 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
How to Serve Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
- Pasta – Fettuccine, penne, or linguine are classic choices.
- Rice or Risotto – For a hearty grain-based option.
- Zucchini Noodles or Cauliflower Mash – Great low-carb alternatives.
- Crusty Bread – Perfect for scooping up the luscious sauce.
Tips & Tricks
- 🔥 Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – They only need a couple of minutes per side.
- 🧀 Grate Your Own Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese won’t melt as smoothly.
- 🌿 Use Baby Spinach – It’s tender and quick-cooking.
- 🥓 Add Bacon for Extra Flavor – A few crispy bacon bits take this dish over the top.
- 🌾 Gluten-Free Friendly – Serve with gluten-free pasta or veggies.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickens too much.
- Freezing Not Recommended: Creamy sauces tend to split once thawed.
Variations to Try
- Tuscan Chicken – Swap shrimp for seared chicken breast.
- Low-Carb Version – Serve over sautéed zucchini noodles or steamed broccoli.
- Seafood Mix – Add scallops or small chunks of salmon for a twist.
Quick Recipe Card
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Description:
A quick and elegant one-skillet shrimp dish cooked in a creamy garlic parmesan sauce with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach. Perfect for pasta or low-carb dinners.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Best Served With: Pasta, rice, or crusty bread
🛒 Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 cups fresh spinach
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
👩🍳 Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes.
- Add cream, parmesan, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Stir in spinach and cook until wilted.
- Return shrimp to the pan, coat with sauce, and warm through.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice, or vegetables.