This Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that brings the flavors of the sea right to your table! With juicy shrimp and a hint of smoky paprika, it’s hard to resist.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just sauté, stir, and enjoy! I often pair it with rice or crusty bread to soak up that yummy sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and have great texture. If you’re looking for a substitute, feel free to use scallops or even chicken if it’s more convenient.
Smoked Paprika: This gives the dish a delicious smoky flavor. If you can’t find smoked paprika, regular paprika works, though the smoky flavor will be missed. You might add a dash of liquid smoke for similarity.
Cayenne Pepper: This adds a nice kick! If you prefer milder flavors, you can omit it or use a pinch of red pepper flakes instead.
Heavy Cream or Coconut Milk: Using heavy cream brings richness to the dish, but coconut milk offers a dairy-free option and adds a subtle sweetness. Choose based on your dietary preferences!
Fresh Parsley: Adds freshness and color at the end. You can replace it with cilantro if you enjoy that flavor more, or omit it entirely if herbs aren’t your thing!
How Can I Cook Shrimp Perfectly?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky if you’re not careful. The key is to avoid overcooking them, which makes them tough. Follow these steps:
- Heat the oil in the skillet before adding the shrimp. They should sizzle as they hit the pan.
- Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Watch them closely!
- Remove them from heat as soon as they’re cooked. They’ll continue cooking in the residual heat if left in the pan.
With these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender shrimp that add to the flavor of your Paprika Shrimp Skillet!
How to Make Paprika Shrimp Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red or orange), diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut milk (optional for creaminess)
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of half a lemon
- 6 oz cooked spaghetti or any pasta of choice
- Lemon wedges, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Paprika Shrimp Skillet can be prepared in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. This builds the base flavor of your dish!
2. Add Garlic and Bell Peppers:
Next, toss in the minced garlic and diced bell pepper. Continue to sauté for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and the peppers are slightly softened. Stir occasionally to prevent burning!
3. Season It Up:
Now it’s time to add flavor! Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if you like it spicy), salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well to coat the vegetables with those lovely spices.
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. Let this mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and the flavors to meld together.
5. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp into the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they become rubbery!
6. Add Creaminess (Optional):
If you want a creamy sauce, pour in the heavy cream or coconut milk now. Stir to combine, and let the sauce gently simmer for another 2 minutes until it’s slightly thickened.
7. Combine with Pasta:
Gently toss the cooked spaghetti (or your pasta of choice) into the skillet, ensuring the noodles are well-coated with the delicious sauce. This will bring everything together!
8. Final Touches:
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. This adds a bright flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Paprika Shrimp Skillet immediately, garnished with extra parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy the wonderful colors and flavors in one delicious dish!
This Paprika Shrimp Skillet is a delightful meal that’s sure to impress. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet!
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter or dairy-free option, coconut milk works wonderfully! You can also use half-and-half or low-fat milk, but keep in mind that the sauce will be less creamy. If you want it thicker, consider adding a bit of cornstarch mixed with water.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Add a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen up the sauce!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative by adding spinach, zucchini, or even cherry tomatoes to the skillet whenever you sauté the bell pepper. Just ensure that the additional vegetables don’t release too much moisture that could dilute the sauce.
