Creamy Spinach Artichoke Shrimp Skillet: Low-Carb Luxury
Get ready to indulge in pure comfort with our Creamy Spinach Artichoke Shrimp Skillet: Low-Carb Luxury! This dish is everything you could want—succulent shrimp, tender spinach, and a velvety cream sauce that comes together in just one pan. It’s the perfect blend of elegance and ease, ideal for busy weeknights or an impressive low-carb dinner. The best part? It’s as nutritious as it is delicious, packing protein and greens without a hint of guilt. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or just looking for a mouthwatering way to enjoy shrimp, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds. Ready to dive in? Let’s make magic happen in the kitchen!
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 2 lbs Shrimp (raw or pre-cooked): Tender, protein-packed shrimp make the star of this dish. Use raw shrimp for a fresher taste and sauté them until pink, or save time with pre-cooked shrimp added at the end.
- 2 Tbsp Butter: Adds richness and flavor while helping to sauté the shrimp, onions, and garlic to perfection.
- 1 Onion (diced): A chopped onion provides a subtle sweetness and depth to the creamy sauce.
- 6 cloves Garlic (minced): Minced garlic enhances the dish with its bold, savory aroma and flavor.
- 1 (12 oz) Jar Artichoke Hearts (drained and chopped): These tender, tangy vegetables add texture and a slightly briny flavor.
- ¼ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped): Sun-dried tomatoes bring a sweet and tangy pop of flavor that pairs beautifully with the cream sauce.
- ½ Tsp Italian Seasoning (dried): A blend of herbs like oregano and basil adds a classic Mediterranean flair.
- ½ Tsp Parsley (dried): Provides a mild herbal note and a touch of brightness to balance the rich sauce.
- ½ Tsp Paprika (dried): Adds warmth and a subtle smoky undertone to the dish.
- 1 Tbsp Flour: A small amount of flour thickens the cream sauce, giving it a luxurious texture.
- 1 (8 oz) Bag Spinach (fresh): Fresh spinach wilts into the creamy sauce, adding a vibrant color and a boost of nutrients.
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream: The foundation of the creamy sauce, it creates a rich, velvety base for the shrimp and spinach.
- ⅔ cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded): Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce for a nutty, savory flavor and extra creaminess.
- Salt and Black Ground Pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors and bring the dish together.
WHAT MAKES CREAMY SPINACH AND SHRIMP A CROWD-PLEASER?
- Packed with Flavor: I love the combination of creamy sauce, tender shrimp, spinach, and artichokes makes it a hit with all ages.
- Quick and Easy: It’s a one-pan dish that comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Low-Carb and Nutritious: It’s a wholesome meal loaded with protein and veggies, making it a healthy choice everyone can enjoy.
HOW TO PREPARE CREAMY SHRIMP SKILLET?
Time needed: 45 minutes
Prepare the Shrimp:
If using raw shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using pre-cooked shrimp: Skip this step; you’ll add the shrimp later.- Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to release its aroma.
- Cook the Vegetables:
Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2 minutes to heat them through. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, parsley, and paprika, and mix well to evenly coat the veggies. - Add the Spinach:
Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring to wilt it into the creamy sauce. This will take about 2–3 minutes. - Make the Sauce:
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly. - Incorporate the Cheese:
Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. - Finish with Shrimp:
If using pre-cooked shrimp, stir them into the sauce at this point and heat through for about 2–3 minutes. If you cooked the shrimp earlier, return them to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce, warming them up for 1–2 minutes. - Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. This creamy shrimp skillet pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or on its own for a satisfying low-carb meal.
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Cook raw shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque (2–3 minutes per side). If using pre-cooked shrimp, add them at the end just to heat through.
Substitute butter with a dairy-free alternative, heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk, and Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast or a dairy-free cheese option.
Gradually add cream and adjust the consistency by stirring in a bit of chicken broth if it becomes too thick.
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine and reheat gently just before serving.
CREAMY SHRIMP RECIPE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS:
- Swap Shrimp for Chicken or Salmon: Replace shrimp with diced chicken breast or salmon fillets for a protein twist. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Use Coconut Milk for a Dairy-Free Option: Substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free alternative that adds a subtle tropical flavor.
- Replace Spinach with Kale or Swiss Chard: If you don’t have spinach, use kale or Swiss chard. Remove tough stems and chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced fresh chili to the sauce for a kick of heat.
- Go Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for cornstarch or arrowroot powder (use half the amount) to thicken the sauce without gluten.
- Try a Different Cheese: Replace Parmesan with Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or a sharp white cheddar for a unique flavor profile.
WHAT DO YOU SERVE WITH ARTICHOKE SHRIMP CREAM SKILLET?
For a perfect meal, serve your creamy spinach shrimp skillet with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or mashed cauliflower to soak up all that rich sauce. If you’re not focused on carbs, crusty bread, pasta, or steamed rice also work wonderfully. To drink, try a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer for a casual vibe. For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water with lemon is refreshing. Whether you’re making this for a quick weeknight dinner, a romantic date night, or a holiday gathering, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy!
HOW CAN WE STORE AND REHEAT LEFTOVER CREAMY SHRIMP SAUTE?
To store leftovers, simply transfer the creamy spinach shrimp skillet to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce if it’s too thick. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly, and if you’re using shrimp, be careful not to overcook it during reheating. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, but the stovetop method tends to keep the sauce creamier.
CAN CREAMY SPINACH SHRIMP SKILLET BE FROZEN FOR ANOTHER DAY?
While this creamy spinach shrimp skillet is best enjoyed fresh, it can be frozen for later consumption, though the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon reheating. To freeze, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream or broth to help bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. Keep in mind that shrimp can become a little rubbery after freezing, so it’s ideal to freeze just the sauce and spinach, then add fresh shrimp when reheating.
LOOKING FOR MORE DINNER OPTIONS? TRY THESE!
Sticky Sweet Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe: Combining the irresistible sweetness of honey with the rich depth of garlic, this dish offers a perfect balance of flavors that’s sure to satisfy.
Easy Mongolian Chicken Recipe: Ready in 30 Minutes: Packed with tender chicken, savory soy sauce, and a hint of sweetness, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you need a fast yet tasty dinner.
Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast: This recipe for Parmesan Crusted Chicken Breast is a great addition to your meal repertoire. It’s easy enough to make but fancy enough for company. It appeals to the whole family, especially kids who love the explosive flavor.
Creamy Spinach Artichoke Shrimp Skillet: Low-Carb Luxury
Equipment
- Large Skillet
Ingredients
- 2 lbs Shrimp (raw or pre-cooked)
- 2 Tbsp Butter
- 1 Onion (diced)
- 6 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 (12 oz) Jar Artichoke Hearts (drained and chopped)
- ¼ Cup Sun-Dried Tomatoes (chopped)
- ½ Tsp Italian Seasoning (dried)
- ½ Tsp Parsley (dried)
- ½ Tsp Paprika (dried)
- 1 Tbsp Flour
- 1 (8 oz) Bag Spinach (fresh)
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- ⅔ cup Parmesan Cheese (shredded)
- Salt and Black Ground Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: If using raw shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and sauté for 2–3 minutes on each side until they turn pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. If using pre-cooked shrimp: Skip this step; you’ll add the shrimp later.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to release its aroma.
- Cook the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for 2 minutes to heat them through. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, parsley, and paprika, and mix well to evenly coat the veggies.
- Make the Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the vegetable mixture and stir for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste. Gradually pour in the heavy whipping cream, stirring constantly to create a smooth sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Add the Spinach: Add the fresh spinach to the skillet, stirring to wilt it into the creamy sauce. This will take about 2–3 minutes.
- Incorporate the Cheese: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts completely, creating a rich and velvety sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Finish with Shrimp: If using pre-cooked shrimp, stir them into the sauce at this point and heat through for about 2–3 minutes. If you cooked the shrimp earlier, return them to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce, warming them up for 1–2 minutes.
- Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve immediately. This creamy shrimp skillet pairs wonderfully with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or on its own for a satisfying low-carb meal.