Name: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), drained and chopped; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups fresh spinach; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a rich and indulgent dish packed with bold Italian flavors. Tender shrimp are sautéed in garlic and olive oil, then simmered in a luscious, creamy sauce loaded with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, Parmesan, and a hint of herbs. It’s a restaurant-quality meal I can make easily at home in just one pan—and in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe brings so much flavor with minimal effort. The creamy sauce is velvety and full of depth thanks to the sun-dried tomatoes and garlic, while the shrimp cook up juicy and tender in minutes. It feels like something I’d order at a fancy restaurant, but it’s incredibly simple to make on a busy weeknight. I also like that it’s versatile—perfect served over pasta, rice, or even with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Olive oil
Garlic (minced)
Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped)
Heavy cream
Fresh spinach
Grated Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil or parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

I start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
I add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Then I remove them from the pan and set them aside.
In the same skillet, I sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
I stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring to combine.
I mix in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, letting the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.
I stir in the spinach and cook until wilted.
I return the shrimp to the skillet and simmer everything together for another 1–2 minutes to heat through.
I taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

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

Variations

Sometimes I use chicken or scallops instead of shrimp for a different protein.
I love adding mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for extra texture and flavor.
To make it dairy-free, I use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
If I want a lighter version, I swap the cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk.
For a bit of spice, I add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cream sauce may thicken, but I add a splash of water or cream when reheating to loosen it up.

To reheat, I warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, stirring often so the sauce doesn’t separate. I avoid using the microwave, as it can make the shrimp rubbery. Creamy Tuscan Shrimp

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I can use frozen shrimp. I just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

What can I serve with Tuscan shrimp?

I like serving it over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or even zucchini noodles. It’s also great with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

I can prep the sauce ingredients ahead, but I prefer to cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture. If I need to reheat, I do so gently to avoid overcooking.

How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

I make sure to simmer the cream gently and not boil it. Stirring frequently and using fresh cream helps prevent curdling.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, I sometimes deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding the cream—it adds a nice depth of flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is one of my go-to recipes when I want something comforting, quick, and impressive. The flavors are rich, the texture is silky, and it’s easy enough to make anytime. Whether I’m serving it for a casual dinner or entertaining guests, it never fails to wow. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into something truly special in just a single pan.