Name: One Pan Creamy Garlic Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/2 tablespoons grass-fed butter or ghee; 6 garlic cloves, minced; 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, deveined, with tails on; 1/2 yellow onion, diced; 1/2 cup chicken bone broth; 8 ounces sun dried tomatoes in olive oil; 15 ounces canned coconut milk; 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast; 8 cups spinach, lightly packed; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; kosher salt, to taste; black pepper, to taste

This fast and flavorful meal combines succulent shrimp with a rich, garlic-infused sauce in a single skillet. It is a nutrient-dense option that fits perfectly into low-carb and dairy-free lifestyles.

List of ingredients

2 1/2 tablespoons grass-fed butter or ghee – used for sautéing and adding richness.
6 garlic cloves, minced – provides the primary aromatic base.
1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, deveined, with tails on – the main protein source.
1/2 yellow onion, diced – adds subtle sweetness and depth.
1/2 cup chicken bone broth – used to deglaze the pan and build the sauce.
8 ounces sun-dried tomatoes, in olive oil – provides a concentrated, tangy flavor.
15 ounces canned coconut milk – creates the creamy, dairy-free texture.
2 tablespoons nutritional yeast – adds a savory, cheesy element without dairy.
8 cups spinach, lightly packed – adds color and essential nutrients.
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning – a blend of herbs for classic flavor.
Kosher salt, to taste – for seasoning.
Black pepper, to taste – for a slight spicy kick.

step-by-step instructions

Sauté Garlic: Melt the ghee, butter, or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent it from burning.
Sear Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Add them to the pan and cook for approximately 2 minutes per side until they are just opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a separate bowl.
Cook Onions: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the diced yellow onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Deglaze Pan: Pour in the chicken bone broth. Stir frequently, scraping the brown bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan to incorporate all the flavor. Simmer until the broth has reduced by at least 50%.
Add Tomatoes: Measure 1 tablespoon of oil from the sun-dried tomato jar and add it to the pan. Stir in the drained, julienned sun-dried tomatoes and sauté with the onions for 2-3 minutes.
Create Creamy Base: Pour in the coconut milk and stir in the nutritional yeast. Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to medium-low.
Wilt Spinach: Add the spinach to the simmering sauce. Stir for about 2 minutes until the leaves have slightly wilted.
Combine and Season: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture and stir frequently for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Final Touch: Season with kosher salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately, ideally over cauliflower rice.

Optimization of Ingredients

Preparing Frozen Shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are completely thawed in the refrigerator overnight. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sear rather than steam.

Managing Spinach Volume

Using 8 cups of lightly packed spinach may seem excessive, but it wilts significantly. One standard 5-ounce grocery store container is usually the perfect amount for this recipe.

The Role of Nutritional Yeast

Nutritional yeast provides a nutty, cheesy flavor that complements the coconut milk. This allows the dish to remain dairy-free while maintaining a savory, rich profile.

Choosing the Right Cooking Fat

Grass-fed butter or ghee is recommended for the best flavor. For a strictly plant-based approach, coconut oil is a suitable substitute that pairs well with the coconut milk.

Selecting the Best Bone Broth

Chicken bone broth offers more collagen and a deeper flavor than standard chicken stock. If using a store-bought version, choose one with minimal additives for a cleaner taste.

Handling Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Use sun-dried tomatoes packed in olive oil for the best texture and flavor. Ensure you save a tablespoon of the packing oil to use in the sautéing process for extra richness.

Alternative Protein and Base Options

Substituting Chicken for Shrimp

To use chicken, cut breasts or thighs into bite-sized pieces. Season them with salt and pepper and sauté for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked through before proceeding with the sauce.

Serving with Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb or paleo meal, serve the shrimp over steamed cauliflower rice. The neutral flavor of the cauliflower allows the garlic and coconut sauce to stand out.

Using Grain-Based Sides

If you are not following a low-carb diet, white rice or rice noodles are excellent choices. The noodles absorb the creamy sauce, making the dish more filling.

Using Whole Grain Pasta

To turn this into a pasta dish, use whole grain or chickpea pasta. Toss the cooked pasta directly into the pan during the final simmering stage to coat every strand.

Transforming the Recipe into Soup

Increase the amount of bone broth to 3-4 cups to create a hearty shrimp soup. You can add extra vegetables like carrots or celery to increase the nutritional value.

Sauce Customization and Thickening

Substituting Dairy for Coconut Milk

If you prefer dairy, replace the coconut milk with half-and-half or heavy cream. This will result in a more traditional Italian-style creamy garlic sauce.

Thickening with Arrowroot Slurry

When using thinner dairy substitutes like whole milk, the sauce may need thickening. Mix equal parts arrowroot flour and water, then stir it into the simmering sauce at the end.

Using Coconut Cream for Density

For a thicker, more indulgent sauce, use canned coconut cream instead of coconut milk. This increases the fat content and creates a velvet-like consistency.

Adjusting the Garlic Intensity

If you prefer a milder garlic flavor, reduce the clove count to four. For those who love a pungent kick, increase it to eight cloves and sauté them slowly.

Cooking Success Strategies

Preventing Garlic Burn

Garlic burns quickly over high heat, which creates a bitter taste. Keep the heat at medium and stir constantly during the first minute of cooking.

The Importance of Broth Reduction

Reducing the bone broth by half is critical for concentrating the flavor. This step ensures the sauce is not watery and has a deep, savory base.

Avoiding Rubberized Shrimp

Overcooking shrimp makes them tough and rubbery. Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn opaque, and only return them at the very end to warm through.

Searing for Maximum Flavor

Ensure the pan is sufficiently hot before adding the shrimp. A good sear creates a golden exterior that adds complexity to the overall flavor of the dish.

Serving and Garnish Ideas

Adding Acidity with Lemon

Serve the finished dish with fresh lemon wedges on the side. Squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before eating cuts through the richness of the coconut milk.

Integrating Heat with Red Pepper Flakes

For a spicy version, stir in red pepper flakes when adding the spinach. This distributes the heat evenly throughout the sauce rather than just on top.

Finishing with Fresh Parsley

Garnish the dish with finely minced fresh parsley. The bright, grassy notes of the parsley provide a fresh contrast to the heavy garlic and cream.

Topping with Cheese

For those not avoiding dairy, a sprinkle of shredded parmesan cheese adds a salty finish. This complements the nutritional yeast already in the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Advice

Refrigeration Guidelines

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Ensure the dish is cooled slightly before sealing to prevent excessive condensation.

Freezing the Creamy Base

The coconut-based sauce freezes surprisingly well. You can freeze the sauce separately and add fresh shrimp and spinach when reheating for the best texture.

Optimal Reheating Method

Reheat the dish gently on a stovetop over low heat. Avoid the microwave if possible, as high heat can cause the coconut milk to separate or the shrimp to overcook.

Make-Ahead Preparation

You can dice the onions, mince the garlic, and julienne the tomatoes in advance. Store them in separate containers to reduce active prep time on cooking day.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Sauce Appears Too Thin

If the sauce is too runny, simmer it for an additional 5 minutes without the lid. This allows more moisture to evaporate, naturally thickening the consistency.

Spinach Not Wilting Properly

Ensure the coconut milk has reached a simmer before adding the spinach. If the pan is too cool, the spinach will take much longer to wilt and may release too much water.

Shrimp Lacking Seasoning

If the dish tastes bland, add a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice. Salt enhances the existing flavors of the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes.

Coconut Flavor is Too Strong

If the coconut taste is too prominent, add a bit more Italian seasoning or a pinch of salt. These savory elements help balance the natural sweetness of the coconut.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can use an Instant Pot using the sauté function for the initial steps. However, the stovetop method is generally faster and provides better control over the reduction of the broth.

Does the sauce taste like coconut?

While coconut milk is used, the strong flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and nutritional yeast mask most of the coconut taste. It tastes creamy rather than tropical.

Can I use a different type of onion?

You can use white onion for a sharper taste or shallots for a more delicate, sophisticated flavor. Yellow onion is recommended for its balanced sweetness when sautéed.

What is the best way to devein shrimp?

Use a small paring knife to make a shallow slit along the back of the shrimp. Gently remove the dark vein with the tip of the knife or a toothpick before rinsing.