Creamy Garlic Butter

Creamy Garlic Butter is a rich and indulgent dish featuring succulent seafood, usually shrimp or salmon, smothered in a luscious garlic butter sauce. This restaurant-style recipe delivers a savory blend of cream, garlic, herbs, and cheese, perfect for an elegant dinner or special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Combines tender seafood with a decadent garlic butter sauce
• Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
• Pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or steamed vegetables
• Elegant presentation with simple preparation
• Packed with comforting, bold flavor

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Salmon fillets or large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Butter
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

1. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add salmon or shrimp and cook until golden and just cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Pour in cream and stir in Parmesan, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
5. Return seafood to the pan and spoon sauce over the top.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Use chicken instead of seafood for a different protein option
• Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for color and texture
• Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version
• Stir in pasta to create a creamy seafood pasta dish

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to restore the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp or salmon?

Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking.

What kind of cream is best?

Heavy cream is ideal for richness and thickness.

Can I make this ahead of time?

The sauce is best made fresh, but seafood can be pre-cooked.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and suitable for a keto diet.

What herbs go well in the sauce?

Parsley, basil, thyme, or dill complement the flavors.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Cream is preferred, but whole milk with flour can work as a light alternative.

Can I bake this instead of cooking on the stovetop?

Yes, assemble in an oven-safe dish and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes.

Does it pair well with pasta?

Absolutely, it’s excellent over linguine or fettuccine.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Simmer longer or add more Parmesan cheese.

Is this recipe spicy?

It can be if you add red pepper flakes—adjust to taste.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter is a decadent and flavorful seafood dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare yet elegant enough for guests. Whether served over pasta or with vegetables, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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