Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is a delicious dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich and creamy sauce with sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and fresh spinach. The combination of flavors feels warm and comforting, with a nice touch of tanginess from the tomatoes and a hint of garlic that makes the sauce so tasty.
I love making this recipe when I want something that feels fancy but is actually super easy to prepare. It’s one of those meals that comes together in about 20 minutes, which means less time in the kitchen and more time to enjoy dinner with family or friends. Plus, I always end up loving the way the shrimp stay perfectly juicy.
The best way I like to enjoy Creamy Tuscan Shrimp is over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes—it soaks up all that yummy sauce! Sometimes, I even serve it with crusty bread to mop up every last drop. It’s a dish that feels special but is great for a simple weeknight dinner or for impressing guests without stress.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for best texture and flavor. If you prefer, you can swap shrimp with scallops or chicken pieces for a different twist.
Bacon: Adds a smoky crunch. For a lighter option, try turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian-friendly dish—just add extra olive oil for richness.
Heavy Cream: This creates the creamy sauce. If you want a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk as a substitute.
Parmesan Cheese: It brings a nutty, salty flavor to the sauce. You can use Pecorino Romano or Asiago if Parmesan is not available.
Spinach: Fresh baby spinach wilts nicely into the cream sauce. You can swap with kale or Swiss chard, but cook them a little longer so they soften well.
How Do I Get the Cream Sauce Just Right?
The cream sauce is the heart of this dish. To make it silky and smooth:
- After sautéing onions and garlic, add tomatoes to soften.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth slowly, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese off the heat to avoid curdling.
- Simmer gently—not boiling—so the sauce thickens without breaking.
- Stir in spinach last to let it wilt but keep its vibrant color.
Patience is key! Keep heat low and stir often to get that rich, creamy texture that coats the shrimp beautifully.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – A wide pan helps cook shrimp evenly and lets you make the sauce all in one place.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Great for stirring without scratching your skillet.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To keep your cream, broth, and spices just right.
- Knife and cutting board – For chopping bacon, garlic, tomatoes, and parsley easily and safely.
- Paper towels – Perfect for draining crispy bacon and keeping the dish from getting greasy.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp with scallops or chicken for a different protein that works well with creamy sauce.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy, chewy contrast to the creamy texture.
- Stir in a handful of chopped mushrooms when sautéing onions for added earthiness.
- Try fresh herbs like basil or oregano instead of parsley for a brighter, herbal note.
Creamy Tuscan Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved or 1 large tomato chopped
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1/2 cup chopped onions (or shallots)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme)
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Time Needed
This dish takes about 25 minutes total—10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes to cook everything. It’s a quick and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, placing it on paper towels to drain. Keep the bacon fat in the pan—it will add great flavor.
2. Sear the Shrimp
Add olive oil to the skillet with the bacon fat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In the same skillet, add chopped onions (or shallots) and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you can smell the lovely garlic aroma.
4. Cook the Tomatoes and Make the Sauce
Stir in cherry tomatoes and cook for about 3 minutes until they soften. Then add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir well and let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Add Spinach and Combine
Stir in the fresh baby spinach and let it wilt into the sauce. Then return the shrimp and crispy bacon to the pan. Mix everything gently so the shrimp is coated in the creamy sauce. Cook for another minute to warm everything through.
6. Season and Serve
Taste the dish and add more salt and pepper if needed. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish.
Enjoy your Creamy Tuscan Shrimp alongside pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat dry to remove excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Bacon with Something Else?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon or pancetta work great as alternatives. If you’d rather skip bacon, add a bit more olive oil or a smoky paprika to maintain that savory depth.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to keep the creamy sauce smooth.
What Can I Serve with Creamy Tuscan Shrimp?
This dish is wonderful over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a lighter option, try serving it alongside sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.
