Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tbsp unsalted butter; 6 garlic cloves; 1 lb shrimp; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 small brown shallot; ½ cup dry white wine; 1½ cups reduced fat cream; salt and pepper; 3 cups baby spinach; ½ cup parmesan cheese; 1 tsp cornstarch; 4 tbsp parsley; 2 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice; 4 tbsp capers; lemon slices; Fresh Parsley

For a delightful twist on traditional piccata, this creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata offers a rich and savory flavor profile. Juicy shrimp bathed in a luscious cream sauce with garlic, capers, and parmesan cheese creates a meal that's both elegant and comforting. Perfect for a special dinner or a satisfying weeknight treat.

Photos of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Recipe

You might not always have shallots, capers, or reduced fat cream in your pantry. Shallots add a mild onion flavor, while capers provide a tangy burst that complements the dish. The reduced fat cream is essential for achieving the creamy texture without too much richness. Make sure to check these items off your list when you head to the supermarket.

Ingredients for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata

Butter: Provides a rich base for the sauce.

Garlic: Adds aromatic depth and flavor.

Shrimp: The main protein, bringing a sweet and briny taste.

Olive oil: Helps in sautéing and adds a fruity flavor.

Shallot: Gives a subtle, sweet onion flavor.

White wine: Adds acidity and depth to the sauce.

Reduced fat cream: Creates a creamy texture without too much fat.

Salt: Enhances the overall flavors.

Pepper: Adds a hint of spiciness.

Baby spinach: Adds color and nutrients.

Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor to the sauce.

Cornstarch: Thickens the sauce to the desired consistency.

Parsley: Adds a fresh, herby note.

Lemon juice: Provides acidity and a fresh tang.

Capers: Adds a briny, tangy flavor.

Lemon slices: Used as a garnish for extra freshness.

Fresh parsley: Used as a garnish for a pop of color and flavor.

One reader, Aymer Merriman says:

This creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are perfectly balanced, and the shrimp is cooked to perfection. The sauce is rich and delicious, making it a perfect dish to impress guests or enjoy a cozy night in. Highly recommend!

Aymer Merriman

Mastering the Techniques for Perfect Shrimp Piccata

How to fry garlic: Heat the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add minced garlic and fry for 1 minute until fragrant. How to cook shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet and fry for 2 minutes on each side until just cooked through and pink. How to fry onion: Use the remaining butter in the skillet to fry the chopped shallot until softened. How to reduce wine: Pour white wine into the skillet and allow it to reduce to half while scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan. How to simmer cream: Reduce the heat to low-medium, add the cream, and bring to a gentle simmer while stirring occasionally. How to wilt spinach: Add spinach leaves to the sauce and allow them to wilt. How to thicken sauce: For a thicker sauce, add a cornstarch mixture to the center of the pan and continue to simmer while quickly stirring until the sauce thickens. How to combine ingredients: Add shrimp, lemon juice, capers, and parsley back into the pan and stir through. How to garnish: Take the dish off the heat and serve with lemon slices and extra parsley to garnish.

How To Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata

Grab a bite of this mouthwatering shrimp piccata for dinner tonight! It’s submerged in a flavorful creamy garlic butter sauce and spinach for a fuller meal.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1tbspunsalted butter
6garlic cloves,minced
1lbshrimp,tails on or off
1tbspolive oil
1small brown shallot
½cupdry white wine
1½cupsreduced fat cream
Salt and pepper,to taste
3cupsbaby spinach
½cupParmesan cheese,fresh grated
1tspcornstarch,mixed with 1 tbsp of water
4tbspparsley,fresh chopped
2tbspfresh lemon juice,adjust to tastes
4tbspcapers,rinsed and drained
Lemon slices,to serve
fresh parsley,chopped, extra, to garnish

Instructions

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Melt the butter, then add in the garlic and fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
Add in the shrimp, then fry 2 minutes on each side, until just cooked through and pink. Transfer to a bowl, then set aside.
Fry the onion in the butter remaining in the skillet.
Pour in the white wine, and allow to reduce to half, while scraping any bits off of the bottom of the pan.
Reduce the heat to low-medium heat, then add the cream and bring to a gentle simmer, while stirring occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add in the spinach leaves and allow to wilt in the sauce, then add in the parmesan cheese.
Let the sauce gently simmer for a further 1 minute or so until the cheese melts through the sauce.
For a thicker sauce, add the milk/cornstarch mixture to the center of the pan, and continue to simmer while quickly stirring the mixture through until the sauce thickens.
Add the shrimp back into the pan along with the lemon juice, capers and parsley, then stir through.
Take off the heat, serve with lemon slices and extra parsley to garnish.
Serve over pasta, rice or steamed vegetables, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 567.22kcal
Fat: 45.46g
Saturated Fat: 26.25g
Trans Fat: 0.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 14.38g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2.20g
Carbohydrates: 10.89g
Fiber: 1.34g
Sugar: 4.08g
Protein: 25.24g
Cholesterol: 285.43mg
Sodium: 1147.39mg
Calcium: 379.42mg
Potassium: 388.20mg
Iron: 1.58mg
Vitamin A: 555.47µg
Vitamin C: 17.22mg

Expert Advice: Perfecting the Sauce for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata

To ensure your shrimp are perfectly cooked, make sure they are dry before adding them to the skillet. Pat them with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture. This will help them sear nicely and prevent them from steaming, which can make them rubbery.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Delicious Shrimp Dish

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure and chop all ingredients before starting to cook. This will streamline the process and reduce cooking time.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of peeling and mincing fresh cloves.

Buy peeled shrimp: Purchase shrimp that are already peeled and deveined to cut down on prep time.

Quick spinach wilt: Add spinach directly to the hot sauce to wilt it quickly, rather than pre-cooking it.

Pre-grated cheese: Use pre-grated parmesan cheese to avoid the time-consuming task of grating it yourself.

Substitute Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Recipe

unsalted butter - Substitute with ghee: Ghee has a similar rich flavor and can be used in the same quantities.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove to maintain the garlic flavor.
shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops have a similar texture and cook quickly like shrimp.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.
brown shallot - Substitute with red onion: Red onion can provide a similar sweetness and texture to shallots.
dry white wine - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can add depth of flavor without the alcohol content.
reduced fat cream - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk provides a creamy texture and is a good dairy-free option.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce can add a salty and umami flavor, but use sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.
pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a similar heat but a slightly different flavor profile.
baby spinach - Substitute with kale: Kale can provide a similar leafy texture and is nutrient-dense.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with nutritional yeast: Nutritional yeast offers a cheesy flavor and is a good vegan alternative.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can thicken sauces similarly to cornstarch.
parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro can add a fresh, herbaceous note similar to parsley.
fresh lemon juice - Substitute with lime juice: Lime juice provides a similar acidity and brightness.
capers - Substitute with green olives: Green olives can offer a similar briny flavor to capers.
lemon slices - Substitute with lime slices: Lime slices can provide a similar visual and flavor element.
fresh parsley - Substitute with fresh basil: Fresh basil can add a different but complementary herbaceous flavor.

Elevate Your Dinner Party with This Impressive Presentation

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata in elegant, smaller portions to highlight the dish's sophistication and ensure a refined dining experience.
Use decoration: Garnish the plate with finely chopped fresh parsley and thin lemon slices to add a touch of color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal.
Layer the components: Start with a base of baby spinach wilted in the creamy sauce, then artfully arrange the shrimp on top, ensuring each piece is visible and evenly spaced.
Highlight textures: Drizzle the sauce around the shrimp in a circular pattern, allowing the creamy texture to contrast with the firm, succulent shrimp.
Add height: Create height by stacking the shrimp slightly on top of each other, giving the dish a more dynamic and three-dimensional appearance.
Incorporate microgreens: Use a small amount of microgreens or edible flowers to add a touch of elegance and a pop of color, making the dish visually striking.
Use high-quality tableware: Serve the dish on a pristine, white plate with a wide rim to frame the creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata beautifully, ensuring the focus remains on the food.
Balance flavors: Ensure that each bite contains a balance of shrimp, sauce, and capers, providing a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Finish with a touch of luxury: Add a light sprinkle of parmesan cheese just before serving to enhance the dish's richness and provide a final touch of indulgence.
Serve with complementary sides: Pair the dish with a small portion of perfectly cooked pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables, arranged neatly on the side to complement the main components without overshadowing them.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Shrimp Piccata

Large skillet: A wide, flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. Essential for cooking the shrimp and making the sauce.
Spatula: A flat, broad tool used for flipping and stirring ingredients in the skillet.
Garlic press: A tool used to crush garlic cloves efficiently, ensuring they are finely minced.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure small quantities of ingredients like butter, olive oil, and cornstarch accurately.
Measuring cups: Used to measure larger quantities of ingredients such as wine and cream.
Knife: A sharp tool for chopping the shallot and parsley.
Cutting board: A surface used for chopping and preparing ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used to temporarily hold the cooked shrimp.
Whisk: A tool used to mix the cornstarch and milk mixture smoothly.
Tongs: Used to handle and turn the shrimp while cooking.
Citrus juicer: A tool for extracting fresh lemon juice.
Grater: Used to grate the parmesan cheese finely.
Serving spoon: A large spoon used to serve the finished dish.
Plates: Used to serve the final dish, whether over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables.
Lemon zester: Optional, but useful for garnishing with lemon zest if desired.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata

To store leftover creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Seal the container tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to reheat, transfer the desired portion to a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir gently until the shrimp is heated through and the sauce is warm and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, you can add a splash of cream or white wine to help loosen it up.
For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
To thaw frozen creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, reheat it in a skillet over medium-low heat until the shrimp is heated through and the sauce is warm and creamy. Avoid refreezing previously frozen and thawed creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata to maintain the best quality and texture.
If you plan to freeze the dish, it's recommended to slightly undercook the shrimp initially. This way, when you reheat the frozen and thawed creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata, the shrimp will not become overcooked and rubbery.
To maintain the vibrant green color of the spinach in the dish, you can blanch the spinach separately and add it to the sauce when reheating. This will help prevent the spinach from becoming dull or discolored during storage or freezing.

How To Reheat Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata

Reheat the creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring gently to ensure even heating and prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth if needed to thin out the sauce and maintain its creamy consistency.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover shrimp piccata in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until the dish is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as the shrimp may become rubbery.
If you have leftover pasta or rice to serve with the creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata, reheat them separately. For pasta, boil a pot of water, then remove it from heat and add the pasta, allowing it to sit for 1-2 minutes until heated through. For rice, microwave with a sprinkle of water for 1-2 minutes, or reheat in a skillet with a bit of butter or olive oil.
To maintain the bright, fresh flavors of the dish, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of chopped parsley after reheating. This will help to revive the flavors and counteract any loss of freshness from refrigeration.
If you find that the sauce has thickened too much during storage, gradually stir in a small amount of heavy cream, milk, or chicken broth while reheating to achieve the desired consistency. Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Surprising Facts About the Origins of Shrimp Piccata

A unique aspect of this creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata recipe is the inclusion of capers, which add a tangy, briny flavor that complements the richness of the cream sauce and the freshness of the lemon juice.

Budget-Friendly Tips for Making Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata at Home

This creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata recipe is moderately cost-effective for a household. The primary expense lies in the shrimp and reduced fat cream, but other ingredients like garlic, spinach, and parmesan cheese are relatively affordable. The use of white wine can be adjusted based on budget, opting for a more economical bottle. Overall, the recipe scores a 7 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD.

Is Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Healthy or Unhealthy?

This creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. On the positive side, it includes nutrient-rich ingredients like shrimp, garlic, spinach, and lemon juice. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, while garlic and spinach provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The lemon juice adds a refreshing tang and vitamin C.

However, the recipe also contains some less healthy components. The use of butter and cream increases the saturated fat content, which can contribute to heart disease if consumed in excess. Additionally, the dish may be high in sodium due to the added salt and parmesan cheese.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Reduce the amount of butter and cream used, or replace them with healthier alternatives like olive oil and Greek yogurt
Increase the proportion of vegetables, such as adding more spinach or incorporating other nutrient-dense options like bell peppers or cherry tomatoes
Use whole wheat pasta or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta to increase fiber intake
Opt for low-sodium broth and reduce the amount of added salt to control sodium levels
Serve the dish with a side salad or extra steamed vegetables to balance out the meal and add more nutrients

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of this creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata while also supporting a healthier lifestyle.

Editor's Take: Why Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata is a Must-Try

This creamy garlic butter shrimp piccata recipe is a delightful fusion of rich flavors and textures. The combination of garlic, white wine, and reduced-fat cream creates a luscious sauce that perfectly complements the tender shrimp. The addition of spinach and parmesan adds depth, while the capers and lemon juice provide a refreshing tang. The recipe is well-balanced and versatile, making it suitable for serving over pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables. It's a sophisticated yet approachable dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Imagine crispy potatoes with a golden-brown crust, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan. These delightful bites are the perfect complement to the creamy shrimp piccata, adding a satisfying crunch and a burst of savory goodness.

Lemon Herb Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears, lightly roasted and drizzled with a zesty lemon and herb dressing. The bright, citrusy notes and fresh herbs create a refreshing contrast to the rich, buttery shrimp dish, making each bite a harmonious blend of flavors.

Caprese Salad: A vibrant salad featuring juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. Drizzled with a balsamic reduction, this classic Italian side dish adds a burst of color and a delightful tanginess that pairs beautifully with the shrimp piccata.

Buttery Garlic Bread: Slices of warm, crusty bread, generously spread with a butter and garlic mixture, then toasted to perfection. This indulgent side is perfect for soaking up the luscious sauce from the shrimp piccata, ensuring no drop of that creamy goodness goes to waste.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and vibrant salsa made with ripe mangoes, creamy avocado, and a hint of lime. This tropical side dish adds a sweet and tangy twist, balancing the richness of the shrimp piccata with its fresh and fruity flavors.

Delicious Variations on the Classic Shrimp Piccata Recipe

Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp: Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a zesty lemon and garlic butter sauce. This dish is perfect for those who crave a burst of citrusy flavor combined with the richness of butter. Serve it over a bed of pasta or alongside some steamed vegetables for a delightful meal.

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp: Transport yourself to the heart of Tuscany with this creamy delight. Shrimp are cooked in a luscious sauce made with sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and parmesan cheese. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that's both comforting and elegant.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: A classic favorite, this shrimp scampi is cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of white wine. The addition of red pepper flakes gives it a subtle kick, making it a perfect dish for those who love a bit of heat. Serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Shrimp Alfredo: Indulge in the creamy goodness of shrimp alfredo. This dish features tender shrimp in a rich alfredo sauce made with heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and a touch of garlic. It's a comforting and satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion.

Shrimp and Asparagus Stir-Fry: For a lighter option, try this vibrant stir-fry. Shrimp and asparagus are cooked together with a savory soy sauce and ginger glaze. The dish is quick to prepare and packed with fresh flavors, making it a great choice for a healthy weeknight dinner.

Appetizer and Dessert Ideas for a Complete Shrimp Piccata Dinner Party

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and filling them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Top with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and bake until golden brown. The creamy filling and the earthy flavor of the mushrooms create a perfect harmony, making them an irresistible starter.

Bruschetta: Transport your taste buds to Italy with this classic bruschetta. Toast slices of baguette until crispy, then top with a vibrant mix of diced tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of the crunchy bread and the fresh, tangy topping is a delightful way to kick off any meal.

Desserts:

Tiramisu: Indulge in a Classic Italian Delight: Imagine layers of espresso-soaked ladyfingers mingling with a rich, creamy mascarpone mixture. This dessert is elevated with a dusting of cocoa powder and a hint of coffee liqueur. Each bite offers a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it an ideal end to your meal. Serve it chilled to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Panna Cotta: Savor a Silky, Elegant Treat: This dessert features a smooth, creamy vanilla base that melts in your mouth. It's often paired with a tangy berry compote or a drizzle of caramel sauce to add a burst of flavor. The delicate texture and subtle sweetness make it a sophisticated choice for any occasion. Garnish with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for an extra touch of elegance.

Why trust this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter with succulent shrimp to create a mouthwatering dish. The addition of white wine and parmesan cheese elevates the sauce to a creamy perfection, while spinach adds a nutritious touch. The capers and lemon juice provide a zesty contrast that balances the richness. Trust this recipe for its well-rounded flavors and straightforward instructions, ensuring a delightful meal every time.

Discuss this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Piccata recipe and share your own tips and twists in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How can I make the sauce thicker?

If you want a thicker sauce, just mix the cornstarch with a bit of milk and add it to the center of the pan. Keep simmering and stirring quickly until the sauce thickens up.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

What type of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best for this recipe. It adds a nice depth of flavor without being too sweet.

Can I substitute the cream with something else?

You can use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor might be slightly different.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.