This Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a quick and colorful dish that packs a flavorful punch! Juicy shrimp are sautéed with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all seasoned with smoky paprika.
I love how easy this meal is to whip up after a long day. Just toss everything in the skillet, and you’ve got a delicious dinner that looks as good as it tastes!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. If fresh shrimp isn’t available, frozen shrimp work well too. Just remember to thaw them completely before cooking!
Smoked Paprika: This ingredient gives the dish its distinctive smoky flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika can be used, but it won’t provide the same depth of taste. Consider adding a pinch of cumin for extra warmth.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil adds great flavor, but you can substitute it with vegetable oil or butter if needed. I prefer olive oil for its health benefits and taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with coconut milk or half-and-half. Each option brings a different flavor, so choose based on your preference!
Chopped Parsley: It’s lovely for garnish, but feel free to use basil or cilantro instead if you prefer a different fresh herb.
How Do You Perfectly Cook Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp right is key to this dish. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be firm, opaque, and pink. Here’s how to do it:
- Make sure shrimp are dry before seasoning. This helps them sear nicely.
- Cook shrimp over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes on each side. They’ll turn pink and have a slight curve when done.
- Remove shrimp promptly to avoid overcooking. They’ll continue to cook slightly even off the heat.
Trust your eyes and take them off the heat when they look just done! This will help keep them tender and juicy.
How to Make Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/2 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Juice of half a lemon
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s quick yet delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. In a bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. This step adds fantastic flavor!
2. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Next, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
4. Add Tomatoes and Broth:
Stir in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, which usually takes about 4 minutes. Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for a couple of minutes, so it reduces slightly.
5. Create the Creamy Sauce:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the sauce thickens a bit. This will create a creamy base for the shrimp.
6. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, letting them heat through for an additional minute. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately!
This vibrant, creamy, and smoky shrimp skillet pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or pasta! Enjoy your flavorful meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. A quick way to do this is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning for the best results.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the onions and garlic. Start with a small amount and adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you want to lighten the dish, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. Each alternative provides a different flavor profile, so choose based on your preference!