Let’s get cooking! Follow these detailed steps to create your creamy garlic shrimp masterpiece.

Start by gathering your shrimp. Ensure they are peeled and deveined (you can often find this done at the store). Rinse them lightly under cool water and pat dry. Drying is crucial. It helps get that beautiful sear when they hit the skillet.

Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the light olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Allow this to melt together. Once hot, toss in your minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté this for about a minute—just until it becomes fragrant, not browned. Nobody likes burnt garlic.

In the same skillet, add the shrimp in a single layer. You might hear a nice sizzle—this is a great sign! Cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque. Flip them over and cook for another 1-2 minutes. The shrimp should be just cooked through, then remove them to a plate.

Now for the glorious cream sauce. In the same skillet, add the heavy cream, Italian herb blend, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat while whisking to combine the flavors. As it heats, this will thicken slightly.

Once you notice the sauce is thicker, it’s time to add the cheese. Stir in the shredded cheese until melted and smooth. Then, return the shrimp to the skillet, allowing them to bask in that creamy goodness for a couple of minutes to soak up some flavor. Don’t forget to add the fresh parsley right before serving!