Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and a hint of Italian herbs. The sauce is smooth and flavorful, making every bite comforting and satisfying. It’s a great way to bring a little bit of Italy to your dinner table without too much fuss.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but comes together pretty quickly. The combination of creamy sauce and juicy shrimp always gets compliments from family and friends. A little tip I have is not to overcook the shrimp since they cook fast and stay nice and juicy when you’re done.
My favorite way to enjoy Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is over a bed of pasta or even mashed potatoes to soak up all that tasty sauce. It’s also lovely served with crusty bread on the side for dipping. This dish always makes me feel like I’m having a cozy meal that’s both simple and elegant, perfect for a weeknight dinner or when guests come over.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Shrimp
- Large shrimp work best here for that tender, juicy bite. If unavailable, you can use smaller shrimp or even prawns. Just adjust cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Heavy Cream
- It gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or a combo of milk and cream cheese, but the sauce might be less thick.
- Sun
- Dried Tomatoes: These add a nice tangy, sweet pop. I prefer ones packed in oil because they’re more flavorful and softer. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers make a good substitute.
- Parmesan Cheese
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts beautifully and adds a nutty flavor. Pre-grated works too but may not melt as smoothly. You could try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
- Spinach
- Fresh spinach wilts quickly and adds color and nutrients. Baby spinach is great here. If you only have frozen, thaw and squeeze out excess water before adding.
How Do I Make a Creamy Sauce Without It Splitting?
Making a smooth creamy sauce can sometimes be tricky. Here’s how to keep it from separating:
- Lower the heat: When adding cream, keep the heat medium or low to prevent the sauce from boiling fast and breaking.
- Stir steadily: Stir the cream, broth, and cheese constantly to help everything blend evenly.
- Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and prevents clumping.
- Add cheese gradually: Add it in small amounts, stirring fully before adding more.
- Don’t overcook: Once the sauce thickens, reduce heat to keep it smooth.
Following these steps will help you get a velvety, rich sauce that’s perfect for coating the shrimp and spinach.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir the sauce gently without scratching the skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for precise amounts of cream, broth, and seasonings.
- Sharp knife – essential for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and parsley.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken breast slices if you prefer a milder protein; cook fully before adding sauce.
- Add sautéed mushrooms for a deeper earthy flavor and extra texture.
- Use kale or Swiss chard instead of spinach for a heartier green that holds up longer in the sauce.
- Mix in a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne for a spicy kick beyond the red pepper flakes.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp and Seasoning:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For The Creamy Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably in oil)
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick to whip up, with most of your time spent cooking the shrimp and gently simmering the creamy sauce until it’s just right.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Shrimp:
Sprinkle salt and black pepper over the shrimp. Heat olive oil in a large skillet on medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and are cooked through. Take the shrimp out and set them aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, turn the heat down to medium and stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Mix well to combine.
3. Add Cheese, Seasonings, and Veggies:
Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring constantly until the cheese melts, and the sauce thickens a bit. Next, add the sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes if you want some spice. Toss in the fresh spinach leaves and cook for 2-3 minutes until they wilt.
4. Combine Shrimp and Finish:
Put the cooked shrimp back in the skillet. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes so the shrimp warms up and the flavors meld. Taste and add more salt or pepper if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and serve the dish hot. It’s delicious paired with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all the creamy goodness. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for faster thawing. Pat dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream for a Lighter Option?
Definitely. You can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter sauce, but the texture will be less rich and creamy. For best results, keep the heat moderate to avoid curdling.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?
This dish is fantastic over cooked pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to scoop up the sauce. For a low-carb option, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or cauliflower rice.