Creamy Jalapeño Shrimp is a flavorful and spicy seafood dish that combines tender shrimp with a rich, creamy jalapeño sauce. The heat from the jalapeños perfectly balances with the creaminess, creating a dish that is both comforting and bold in flavor. It is perfect for a quick dinner or an impressive meal for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy – This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Rich and flavorful – The creamy sauce adds a luxurious texture, while the jalapeños provide just the right amount of spice.
Versatile – Serve it over rice, pasta, or with warm tortillas for a delicious meal.
Customizable heat level – Adjust the number of jalapeños to make it as mild or spicy as you like.
Great for seafood lovers – A perfect way to enjoy shrimp in a new and exciting way.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Fresh jalapeños, finely chopped
Heavy cream
Garlic, minced
Butter
Olive oil
Parmesan cheese, grated
Lime juice
Chicken or seafood broth
Salt and pepper
Paprika (optional)
Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish

Directions

Prepare the shrimp – Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika if using.
Sauté the shrimp – In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the jalapeños and garlic – In the same skillet, add the chopped jalapeños and garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Make the creamy sauce – Pour in the chicken or seafood broth, followed by the heavy cream. Stir and let it simmer for a few minutes.
Add cheese and lime juice – Stir in the Parmesan cheese and lime juice, allowing the cheese to melt and the flavors to blend.
Combine shrimp with sauce – Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy jalapeño sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
Serve – Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or with tortillas.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Milder Version: Remove the seeds from the jalapeños or replace them with mild green chilies.
Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use serrano peppers instead of jalapeños.
Cheesy Twist: Stir in extra Parmesan or a bit of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of regular rice or pasta.
Protein Swap: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different take on the dish.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the shrimp and sauce in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to maintain the creamy texture. Avoid overheating, as shrimp can become rubbery.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed.

FAQs

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how many jalapeños you use and whether you remove the seeds. Removing the seeds will make it milder.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

What can I serve with creamy jalapeño shrimp?

It pairs well with rice, pasta, quinoa, or warm tortillas for a complete meal.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

How do I thicken the sauce if needed?

Let it simmer longer, or add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it.

Can I use another type of seafood?

Yes, scallops or chunks of firm white fish work well as substitutes.

Is this dish keto-friendly?

Yes, as long as it is served with low-carb sides like cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

Can I make it ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and add the shrimp when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to cut jalapeños without irritation?

Wear gloves or coat your hands with oil before handling jalapeños to avoid skin irritation.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end and heat them just enough to coat in the sauce without overcooking.

Conclusion

Creamy Jalapeño Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you prefer it mild or extra spicy, this recipe offers a creamy, satisfying meal with just the right amount of heat. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your hom