This Creamy Garlic Shrimp Toast is an elegant yet simple dish made for shrimp lovers. Juicy, butterflied shrimp are seared in a rich garlic cream sauce with smoky paprika, then spooned generously over crisp, buttery slices of toasted French bread. Every bite offers a perfect mix of creamy, garlicky sauce and golden, crunchy toast — making it an indulgent meal for two that feels straight out of a fine dining restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this recipe for its simplicity, luxurious flavors, and versatility. The shrimp cook quickly while absorbing the smoky, garlicky essence of the sauce. The toasted French bread adds texture and soaks up every drop of the creamy goodness. Best of all, this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for an impressive weeknight dinner or a cozy date night at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

12 ounces large shrimp, peeled, deveined, and butterflied
1 pinch cayenne pepper
¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
3 cloves garlic, crushed (or more to taste)
2 thick slices French bread (½- to ¾-inch thick)
6 tablespoons clarified butter, melted, divided
2 teaspoons fresh lemon zest
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
½ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons minced fresh Italian parsley
1 pinch salt, or to taste

Directions

1. Place the butterflied shrimp in a mixing bowl. Add cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and crushed garlic. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated, then refrigerate until needed.
2. Trim most of the crust off the French bread slices.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of clarified butter. Add the bread and toast until golden brown on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove the toast to a plate and wipe out any crumbs from the skillet.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of clarified butter to the skillet. Increase the heat to high until the butter begins to smoke lightly.
5. Add the shrimp and spread them out evenly using tongs. Sear without stirring for 1 minute.
6. Sprinkle with lemon zest, then add lemon juice and heavy cream. Stir gently, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the mixture boil and reduce for 1½ to 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and the shrimp are fully cooked.
7. Turn off the heat and stir in minced parsley. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
8. Spoon the shrimp and sauce evenly over the toasted bread slices. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops, lobster chunks, or crawfish for a twist.
• Bread Options: Try sourdough or ciabatta instead of French bread for different textures.
• Add Vegetables: Stir in a handful of baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms while simmering the sauce.
• Spice Level: Adjust cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to make it milder or spicier.
• Cheesy Touch: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano on top before serving.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, store the shrimp and sauce separately from the bread to prevent sogginess. Reheat the shrimp mixture gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Re-toast the bread in a dry skillet or toaster before assembling. Avoid microwaving, as it may cause the shrimp to become rubbery.

FAQs

How do I butterfly shrimp properly?

To butterfly shrimp, run a sharp knife along the back of each shrimp, cutting almost through but not all the way. Open them like a book to flatten.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

No, it’s best to use raw shrimp so they can absorb the flavors of the garlic cream sauce while cooking.

What’s the best substitute for clarified butter?

You can use regular unsalted butter, but clarified butter prevents the bread from getting soggy and gives a richer flavor.

Can I make this with frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw the shrimp completely and pat dry before seasoning.

What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Shrimp Toast?

It pairs beautifully with a light green salad, roasted vegetables, or steamed asparagus.

Can I double the recipe for more servings?

Absolutely. Simply double all ingredients, but cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are ready when they turn pink, opaque, and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking, which makes them rubbery.

Can I make the sauce thicker?

Yes, simmer a little longer to reduce or add a teaspoon of grated Parmesan to thicken it naturally.

What type of cream should I use?

Use heavy cream for the richest texture. Light cream can be substituted but will yield a thinner sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

Only slightly — the pinch of cayenne adds gentle warmth without overpowering the creamy garlic flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp Toast is a restaurant-worthy dish made right in your kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of juicy shrimp, silky garlic cream sauce, and golden toasted bread makes this a satisfying and elegant meal for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer or a main course for two, it’s sure to impress with its flavor, texture, and simplicity.

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