Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Recipe
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a flavorful, one-pan, 30-minute dinner that brings gourmet taste to your kitchen with minimal effort. Bursting with garlic, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes, this Italian-inspired dish is perfect for busy weeknights yet elegant enough to serve guests. It’s naturally low-carb, high in protein, and gluten-free, with easy dairy-free options included.
Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Shrimp Recipe
- Quick & Easy – Ready in 30 minutes with simple steps and pantry staples.
- One-Pan Convenience – Fewer dishes, more flavor. Everything is cooked in the same skillet!
- Restaurant-Quality Results – Rich, creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and vibrant veggies.
- Customizable & Inclusive – Low-carb, gluten-free, and easily adapted to be dairy-free.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (16–20 count)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes in oil, drained and chopped
- 1 cup canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup thawed, well-drained frozen spinach)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half; see dairy-free options below)
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
- Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and toss with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. - Sear the Shrimp
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer (do not overcrowd). Sear for 2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside. - Sauté Garlic & Veggies
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté the garlic briefly, then stir in sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and spinach. Cook until spinach wilts. - Make the Cream Sauce
Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir gently. Season with a pinch more paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes. - Combine & Serve
Return shrimp to the skillet. Spoon sauce over shrimp and simmer for another 1–2 minutes until heated through. Serve immediately.
Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions
- Dairy-Free Version
Use unsweetened coconut milk or thick cashew milk. For thinner plant milks (like oat or almond), create a slurry with olive oil and flour to help the sauce thicken. - No Sun-Dried Tomatoes?
Use halved cherry tomatoes, diced fresh tomatoes, or well-drained canned tomatoes. - Vegetable Variations
Add mushrooms, kale, arugula, bell peppers, or asparagus. - Protein Swaps
Swap shrimp for seared scallops, salmon fillets, or chicken breasts or thighs. - Cheesy Finish
Top with grated Parmesan, Asiago, or Pecorino Romano for an extra savory layer. - Fresh Zing
Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
What to Serve with Tuscan Shrimp
- Low-Carb Sides: Steamed or roasted broccoli, green beans, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts.
- Pasta Lovers: Pair with ravioli, tortellini, penne, or fettuccine for a comforting meal.
- Gluten-Free Options: Serve over zoodles (zucchini noodles) or spaghetti squash.
Can You Use Pre-Cooked Shrimp?
Yes! If using pre-cooked shrimp, skip the searing step and add them directly to the sauce at the end, just long enough to heat through.
This Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is proof that you don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen to enjoy a satisfying, restaurant-style meal. It’s a perfect mix of ease, elegance, and bold flavors—one that will surely become a regular in your dinner rotation.