Are you looking for a delicious, protein-packed keto recipe that comes together in minutes? This Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp is the perfect answer. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, this low-carb recipe delivers restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen.
Shrimp is an excellent choice for keto dieters because it’s high in protein, low in calories, and virtually carb-free. Combined with a rich garlic butter sauce and fresh cream, this dish becomes a satisfying meal that keeps you in ketosis while providing outstanding nutritional value.
Why Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This recipe has become a favorite among keto enthusiasts for several compelling reasons. First, shrimp cooks incredibly fast—you’ll have dinner on the table in under 15 minutes. Second, the ingredient list is simple and readily available at any grocery store. Third, the flavor profile is absolutely delicious, making you forget you’re eating a “diet” food.
The combination of garlic, butter, and heavy cream creates a sauce that’s rich and satisfying. This doesn’t feel like a restricted diet meal; it feels like a luxury dinner you’d order at a fine restaurant. The shrimp absorbs all these wonderful flavors while maintaining its tender, juicy texture.
Ingredients for Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Before you start cooking, make sure your shrimp is completely thawed if frozen. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels—this step is crucial for achieving a nice sear and removing excess moisture that could prevent browning. Mince your garlic and have all ingredients measured and ready. This mise en place approach makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Heat the Pan and Sear the Shrimp
Add 2 tablespoons of butter to a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is foaming and smells nutty, add the shrimp in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan; if necessary, cook in batches. Sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and develop a slight golden color. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Base
Reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly. You want the garlic to become fragrant but not brown, as burned garlic becomes bitter. This brief cooking time is all you need to infuse the butter with delicious garlic flavor.
Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These flavorful bits, called fond, add tremendous depth to your sauce. Let this simmer for 30 seconds, then slowly stir in the heavy cream. Mix until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your preference. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes at this point.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to coat with the creamy sauce. Let everything cook together for 1-2 minutes to warm through and allow the flavors to meld. The sauce should be smooth and velvety. If it seems too thick, add a splash more broth. If it seems too thin, let it simmer for another minute or two.
Step 6: Plate and Garnish
Transfer the shrimp and sauce to serving plates. Top with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This garnish not only looks beautiful but also adds an extra layer of umami flavor.
Nutritional Information Per Serving (Serves 2)
- Calories: 385
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 31g
- Net Carbs: 1.2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0.3g
This nutritional profile makes this recipe ideal for keto dieters. The high protein content helps you feel full and satisfied, while the minimal carbs keep your body in ketosis.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy keto garlic butter shrimp pairs beautifully with several side dishes. Serve it over cauliflower rice for a complete, low-carb meal. You can also pair it with zucchini noodles (zoodles), which provide a pasta-like experience without the carbs. For a vegetable-based option, serve it alongside sautéed spinach, roasted asparagus, or steamed broccoli.
If you’re looking for something more indulgent, serve the shrimp with a side of keto-friendly mashed cauliflower or creamy mushrooms sautéed in butter.
Tips for Success
Using Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp: Both work beautifully in this recipe. If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight and pat dry thoroughly before cooking.
Size Matters: Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe. They cook evenly and absorb the sauce beautifully. Avoid very small shrimp, as they can overcook quickly.
Don’t Skip the Searing: While it’s tempting to skip this step for a simpler preparation, searing the shrimp creates a flavorful crust that adds depth to the dish.
Customize Your Cream: If you’re dairy-sensitive, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a tropical twist, though this will alter the flavor profile somewhat.
Make It Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or even fresh jalapeños for a kick. Some people also enjoy adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep
Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. You can store the shrimp and sauce together. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce consistency.
For meal prep, consider cooking the shrimp and sauce in batches and portioning into meal prep containers with your chosen side dish. This makes weekday lunches or quick dinners incredibly convenient.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes! Frozen shrimp is just as nutritious as fresh. Thaw it completely and pat dry before using.
Is this recipe dairy-free? Traditional preparation includes butter, heavy cream, and optionally Parmesan, so it contains dairy. However, you can substitute dairy-free alternatives if needed.
How spicy is this dish? The recipe as written is mild. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can adjust heat level to your preference.
Can I meal prep this? Absolutely. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently before serving.
What can I substitute for lemon juice? White wine, lime juice, or white vinegar all work well and provide similar acidity to balance the rich sauce.
Conclusion
Creamy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp exemplifies how satisfying and delicious keto eating can be. It proves that eating low-carb doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or enjoying less impressive meals. With simple ingredients and straightforward techniques, you can create restaurant-quality dinners in your own kitchen while staying true to your keto goals.
Whether you’re new to keto or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe deserves a place in your regular rotation. It’s quick, it’s delicious, and it delivers the nutrition your body needs. Try it this week and discover why it’s become such a popular favorite in the keto community.