Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a dish that brings together tender shrimp, a rich and creamy sauce, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh spinach. The sauce is smooth and flavorful, with a hint of garlic and parmesan that makes every bite so satisfying. It’s an easy recipe that feels a little fancy but comes together quickly, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
I love making Creamy Tuscan Shrimp when I want something comforting but still light. The shrimp cook fast, and the creamy sauce thickens just right to coat everything. I usually serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all that sauce. Pro tip: don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes—they add a wonderful punch of flavor and color that really wakes up the dish.
This dish always reminds me of dinners with friends, where everyone can’t stop talking about how good it tastes. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a treat but isn’t complicated at all. If you like shrimp and creamy sauces, you’ll find yourself making this one again and again, just like I do!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Using large shrimp helps keep the dish hearty and easy to eat. If you’re short on fresh shrimp, frozen works fine; just thaw well and pat dry before cooking.
Sun-dried tomatoes: These add a tangy, sweet flavor. If you can’t find them, roasted red peppers can be a tasty swap.
Heavy cream: This makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter option, try half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Chicken broth or white wine: Either helps add depth. White wine gives a nice subtle flavor, but chicken broth works well if you prefer no alcohol.
Spinach: Fresh spinach wilts quickly and adds color and nutrients. You can also use baby kale or Swiss chard for a bit more texture.
How Do You Make the Sauce Creamy Without It Splitting?
Keeping the cream sauce smooth means controlling heat and timing. Here’s how:
- After adding cream, lower heat to medium-low to avoid curdling.
- Stir gently and simmer just long enough, about 3-5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Adding cheese slowly helps thicken and enrich without clumping.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or pasta water to loosen it.
These steps keep your sauce velvety and perfect for coating the shrimp and veggies.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for cooking shrimp evenly and making the creamy sauce all in one pan.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – help you add the right amount of cream, broth, and spices easily.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and herbs cleanly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for chicken breast slices for a different protein that soaks up the sauce well.
- Add sun-dried tomato pesto for an extra burst of tangy, rich flavor in the sauce.
- Include sliced mushrooms to add earthiness and more texture to the dish.
- Try fresh basil instead of parsley for a sweeter, aromatic garnish.
How to Make Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (or dry white wine)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 20-25 minutes total. Prep time for chopping and seasoning is around 5-10 minutes, and cooking the shrimp and sauce will take about 15 minutes. It’s a quick and creamy meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Shrimp:
Start by seasoning your shrimp with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp and set them aside.
2. Make the Sauce:
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until you can smell its wonderful aroma. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 1-2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth or white wine and scrape the skillet bottom to lift all those tasty browned bits.
3. Add Cream & Cheese:
Now stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat. Allow this to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce becomes nicely thickened.
4. Add Spinach & Shrimp Back:
Throw in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until they wilt, about 1-2 minutes. Then return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything in the creamy sauce. Warm it all through for another minute.
5. Taste & Serve:
Give your dish a taste and add more salt or pepper if needed. Finish by sprinkling fresh chopped basil or parsley on top. Serve your creamy Tuscan shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the fridge overnight or under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.
Can I Substitute Heavy Cream for a Lighter Option?
You can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or coconut milk, but the sauce will be less rich and slightly thinner. If using coconut milk, expect a mild coconut flavor addition.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to keep the sauce creamy.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta like fettuccine or linguine, steamed rice, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter meal, try serving it alongside roasted vegetables or a simple salad.
