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Creamy Keto Garlic Shrimp Skillet - Fast, Flavorful, and Low-Carb

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried parsley + oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup chicken or seafood broth (low-sodium)
  • 1/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice, plus extra wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional add-ins: 1 cup baby spinach or sliced mushrooms

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry. Moisture prevents browning, so use paper towels to blot them well. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Sear the shrimp. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 1–2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Sauté the aromatics. Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet, then stir in garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–60 seconds until fragrant, not browned.
  4. Deglaze and simmer. Pour in broth, scraping up browned bits. Stir in Italian seasoning and smoked paprika. Let it reduce for 2 minutes.
  5. Add the cream and cheese. Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth. Simmer gently 2–3 minutes to thicken. Do not boil or the sauce may split.
  6. Finish the dish. Return shrimp to the pan with any juices. Add lemon juice and parsley. If using spinach or mushrooms, stir them in now and cook 1–2 minutes until wilted/tender. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Serve. Spoon over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, sautéed asparagus, or steamed broccoli. Garnish with extra Parmesan and lemon wedges.