Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet

Name: Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 cups fresh spinach; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Parmesan cheese for topping

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Recipes

I absolutely love preparing this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet for weeknight dinners! It's an elegant dish that comes together in no time, yet feels indulgent enough for special occasions. The combination of succulent shrimp, vibrant tomatoes, and fresh spinach in a luscious cream sauce never fails to impress. I often serve it over pasta or alongside crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the rich sauce. Trust me, this is one recipe you won’t want to miss adding to your dinner rotation!

Created by

Harriet Bloom

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:29:35.619Z

When I first tried making Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I initially worried that the cream sauce would be too heavy, but the addition of fresh spinach and tomatoes balances it perfectly. I’ve learned that cooking the shrimp just until they're opaque keeps them tender. No overcooking here!

This dish is also incredibly versatile. On a whim, I added some sun-dried tomatoes for an extra punch of flavor, and it turned out to be a delightful addition. Don't be afraid to experiment with what you have in your kitchen!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy sauce bursting with flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for weeknight meals
Perfect balance of indulgence and freshness
Versatile — great over pasta, rice, or with bread

Ingredient Insights

The choice of shrimp is crucial for this dish. Opt for large, high-quality shrimp, as they provide a more satisfying bite and better absorb the flavors of the sauce. Fresh shrimp should have a mild, briny scent, while frozen shrimp, which can be just as good, should be thoroughly thawed under cold water before use. The texture will significantly impact the overall experience, making it worthwhile to select your shrimp with care.

Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet wouldn’t be the same without the vibrant cherry tomatoes. Their natural sweetness and slight acidity enhance the creamy sauce, preventing it from becoming too rich. If you can’t find cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes can substitute beautifully. Both types should be rinsed and halved prior to cooking, allowing them to release their juices more effectively during the sauté process.

Technique Tips

When sautéing the shrimp, ensure your skillet is adequately heated. A medium heat setting is ideal; this helps achieve a nice sear without overcooking them. Look for a slight pink blush and firm texture on the shrimp as indicators that they are cooked perfectly. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on the cooking time, generally not exceeding 3 minutes on each side.

As the dish develops, adding the spinach should be your final step before serving. The spinach wilts quickly; typically, it takes about 2-3 minutes to become tender and vibrant. This quick cooking preserves its bright color and nutrients while ensuring that it complements the sauce's creaminess rather than becoming soggy.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
2 cups fresh spinach
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Parmesan cheese for topping

Make sure to have all the ingredients prepped before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften. Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning, stirring well to combine.

Add Spinach and Combine

Add the fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted. Return the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the creamy sauce. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to heat through.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet!

Feel free to adjust the seasoning as needed and serve with your favorite side dish.

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine before the cream. It will elevate the dish beautifully.

Meal Prep and Storage

If you're considering meal prep, this Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it's best to store the shrimp separately from the sauce to maintain their texture. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp, which should ideally be added back into the skillet just long enough to warm through.

For a freezer-friendly option, cook the shrimp and sauce separately, allowing them to cool before transferring to airtight containers. The sauce can be frozen for up to three months. Defrosting in the refrigerator overnight is the recommended method when you're ready to enjoy this dish again.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Skillet over a fluffy bed of pasta is a popular option, but consider using zucchini noodles or whole-grain pasta for a healthier twist. Alternatively, serving with crusty bread not only allows you to savor every drop of the luscious sauce but also adds an enjoyable texture contrast to the dish.

For a vibrant meal, accompany the dish with a side salad of mixed greens, tossed with a light vinaigrette. This combination balances the richness of the shrimp and cream, providing a refreshing contrast. If you're feeling adventurous, add a splash of white wine or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for an elevated flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed and drained before cooking for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce won't be as rich.

→ Can I add more vegetables to the skillet?

Absolutely! Bell peppers and zucchini are great additions that pair well with the creamy sauce.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.