Name: Savory Tuscan Shrimp in Creamy Sauce – 30-Minute Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Raw Shrimp (large, peeled, and deveined); 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (adds a warm, smoky flavor); 1/2 teaspoon Italian Seasoning (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (enhances all flavors); 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper (coarse, provides a hint of spice); 5 cloves Garlic (minced adds aromatic depth); 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (for sautéing); 4 oz Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped, about 1/4 cup); 14 oz Artichoke Hearts (drained and chopped, 1 can); 4 oz Fresh Spinach (provides a fresh component); 1 cup Heavy Cream (creates a rich sauce); 1/4 teaspoon Additional Smoked Paprika (for deepening flavor); Salt to taste (for final seasoning adjustments)

When the sun begins to set and the day’s hustle fades, I crave a cozy meal that feels as luxurious as a night out—but without the hassle of leaving home. That’s when I whip up my Creamy Tuscan Shrimp. In just 30 minutes, I can transform everyday ingredients into an elegant dish that tastes like it belongs on a restaurant menu. The moment I sear the shrimp in fragrant garlic and smoked paprika, the savory scents start to dance through my kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation.

With tender shrimp mingling with sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and fresh spinach, this one-pan wonder not only delivers bold flavors but also caters to my low-carb lifestyle. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish never fails to impress. Join me in creating a creamy delight that captures the essence of Tuscany and transforms your dining table into a warm Italian bistro!

Why You’ll Love This Tuscan Shrimp Recipe

Simplicity Made Elegant: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights while still delivering a gourmet experience.

Flavors That Pop: The bold combination of smoked paprika, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes brings a delightful richness to each bite.

One-Pan Wonder: Clean-up is a breeze since everything cooks in one pan, allowing more time to enjoy your meal with loved ones.

Adaptable Base: Feel free to substitue shrimp for chicken or tofu, accommodating various dietary needs without sacrificing flavor.

Low-Carb & Satisfying: Perfect for those seeking healthy options, with each serving offering protein-rich ingredients without the carbs.

Join the culinary excitement and try this comforting dish today! If you’re curious to explore more delightful recipes, check out my collection of quick weeknight dinners.

Tuscan Shrimp Ingredients

• Dive into the essential components of this Tuscan Shrimp dish!

For the Shrimp

Raw Shrimp – 1 lb (large, peeled, and deveined). Provides protein and texture. Use pre-cooked shrimp for convenience.
Smoked Paprika – 1 teaspoon. Adds a warm, smoky flavor to the shrimp.

For the Seasoning

Italian Seasoning – ½ teaspoon (thyme, basil, oregano, rosemary). Offers a blend of herbs typical in Italian cuisine.
Salt – ¼ teaspoon. Enhances all flavors in the dish.
Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon (coarse). Provides a hint of spice.

For the Aromatics

Garlic – 5 cloves, minced. Adds aromatic depth and savory notes.
Olive Oil – 2 tablespoons. For sautéing shrimp and vegetables.

For the Sauce

Sun-Dried Tomatoes – 4 oz, chopped (about ¼ cup). Contributes a tangy, slightly sweet flavor.
Artichoke Hearts – 14 oz, drained and chopped (1 can or about 1 cup). Adds texture and a unique taste.
Fresh Spinach – 4 oz. Provides a fresh, green component, wilting into the sauce.
Heavy Cream – 1 cup. Creates a rich and luxurious sauce. Can be substituted with crème fraîche for a more heat-stable option.
Additional Smoked Paprika – ¼ teaspoon. Used in the cream sauce to deepen flavor.
Salt to taste – For final seasoning adjustments.

How to Make Tuscan Shrimp

Sear the Shrimp: Rinse 1 lb of raw shrimp, then season generously with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and minced garlic, cooking for 2 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Prepare the Tuscan Sauce: In the same skillet, toss in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and artichokes, cooking for 1 minute. Stir in the fresh spinach and let it cook until wilted, about 2 minutes, filling your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas.
Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and add the additional smoked paprika to the skillet. Bring the sauce mixture to a simmer, stirring continuously for about 1 minute, and season with salt to taste.
Combine: Return the seared shrimp to the skillet, spooning that creamy sauce over them. Simmer for an extra 2 minutes, allowing the shrimp to warm through and absorb the delightful flavors.

Optional: Serve with fresh parsley sprinkled on top for an extra touch of flavor and color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?

Creating a delightful meal is all about balance, and these side dishes will complement your creamy masterpiece beautifully.

Zucchini Noodles: These low-carb noodles provide a fresh, light base, soaking up the rich sauce while adding a hint of texture.
Garlic Bread: Crisp, buttery garlic bread is perfect for dipping into that luscious creamy sauce, bringing a touch of indulgence to your dinner table.
Cauliflower Rice: A fantastic grain-free option, cauliflower rice adds a mild, fluffy element that pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of Tuscan shrimp.
Arugula Salad: A peppery arugula salad with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the rich and creamy sauce, balancing the meal beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears seasoned with olive oil and lemon elevate your plate’s aesthetics while providing a fresh, slightly crunchy texture.
Chardonnay: A crisp, chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the luxurious flavors of the dish, making each bite feel even more special.

Choosing the right sides not only enriches your dining experience but also turns an already stunning dish into a memorable feast!

Expert Tips for Tuscan Shrimp

Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: Avoid overcrowding the shrimp in the skillet to ensure they sear rather than steam. Cook in batches if necessary for the best texture.
Creamy Sauce Swap: For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, but be sure to add it off heat to maintain creaminess.
Flavor Boost: Don’t skimp on the garlic! Fresh minced garlic enhances the dish’s aromatic depth, making each bite irresistible.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition in your Tuscan shrimp dish.
Serving Fresh: Serve immediately for the best experience, as the sauce can lose its velvety texture if refrigerated or reheated.

Storage Tips for Tuscan Shrimp

Fridge: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day to maintain the best flavor and texture.
Reheating: Gently reheat the Tuscan shrimp in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it may alter the creamy sauce’s consistency.
Freezer: This dish is not recommended for freezing, as the sauce may lose its luscious creaminess upon thawing and reheating. It’s best enjoyed fresh!

Tuscan Shrimp Variations

Feel free to mix things up and make this dish your own with these delightful ideas that add both flavor and fun!

Chicken Option: Swap out the shrimp for chicken breast, cooking until golden brown for a heartier protein twist. The rich sauce complements chicken beautifully.
Tofu Substitute: For a vegetarian option, use firm tofu, cubed and sautéed until crispy for an equally delicious dish that suits plant-based diets.
Dairy-Free Twist: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream for a creamy, dairy-free delight, maintaining that rich texture without the lactose.
Zesty Spin: Add a splash of lemon juice or lemon zest to the sauce for a bright pop of acidity that beautifully balances the creaminess.
Veggie Boost: Toss in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for added nutrition and color, making it a vibrant one-pan meal.
Spice it Up: Sprinkle in red pepper flakes for an extra kick to the dish, perfect for those who love a bit of heat in their meals.
Herb Infusion: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley over the top before serving to add a burst of freshness and elevate the dish’s presentation.
Exotic Additions: Incorporate olives or capers for an extra layer of flavor that hints at Mediterranean goodness, enriching each savory bite.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Tuscan Shrimp are ideal for meal prep, allowing you to savor restaurant-quality flavors on busy weeknights! You can prep the shrimp seasoning and chop all the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to cook, heat the olive oil in your skillet, add the garlic and shrimp, and sauté until pink. After preparing the Tuscan sauce with the sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes, and spinach, pour in the cream and return the shrimp to the pan. This way, you’ll enjoy a delightful dish that’s just as delicious and fresh, saving you time and effort without sacrificing flavor!

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Look for shrimp that is firm, translucent, and without any black spots or strong odor. If you can, fresh shrimp is preferable, but frozen shrimp are perfectly fine—just ensure to thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.

How should I store leftover Tuscan shrimp?
If you find yourself with leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 1 day. To enjoy the best texture and flavor, it’s best consumed fresh. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the creamy sauce from breaking.

Can I freeze Tuscan shrimp for later?
I recommend avoiding freezing Tuscan shrimp, as the sauce may lose its creamy texture when thawed and reheated. Instead, focus on making just the amount you can enjoy fresh, as this dish is truly best right after cooking!

What can I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
If you accidentally overcook your shrimp, don’t worry! While they may become a bit rubbery, you can add a splash of broth or cream to the skillet with the shrimp and let it simmer for a minute, which can help soften them just a little bit.

Are there any dietary substitutions I should consider?
Very! For a dairy-free version, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. If you’re watching carbs, this recipe is already low-carb, but you can serve it over sautéed zucchini noodles for extra veggies without the carbs. Always ensure that any substitutes fit your dietary restrictions, especially if you’re cooking for others with allergies.