Description

Creamy Shrimp Paprikash is a quick and easy comfort dish featuring tender shrimp in a rich, smoky paprika-spiced cream sauce. Ready in under 30 minutes, this flavorful meal pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, or crusty bread and delivers a satisfying, light yet filling experience ideal for busy weeknights or cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Protein

1 pound fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined

Spices and Flavorings

2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon salt, to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
Optional: pinch of cayenne or smoked chili powder for heat

Vegetables and Aromatics

1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Dairy and Creaminess

1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Liquids and Fats

1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
2 tablespoons butter or oil

Thickening Agent

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour or cornstarch

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Rinse the shrimp and pat them dry thoroughly. Lightly season with salt and pepper, then set aside while preparing the sauce.
Cook the Aromatics: Heat butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Add Paprika and Flour: Sprinkle in the sweet paprika and quickly stir to coat the onions and garlic, releasing the smoky aroma. Add the flour, stirring continuously to form a thick paste that will help thicken the sauce.
Pour in Broth and Simmer: Slowly drizzle the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet while stirring to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and deepen in flavor.
Stir in Cream and Shrimp: Reduce the heat to low and gently mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt, creating a creamy texture. Add the shrimp and cook just until they turn pink and opaque, approximately 3–4 minutes; avoid overcooking to keep shrimp tender.
Finish with Herbs and Season: Stir in chopped fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

Notes

Choose fresh or high-quality thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Add sour cream off the heat or on very low heat to prevent curdling.
Use sweet paprika for authentic smoky flavor; smoked paprika is optional for deeper smokiness.
Add broth gradually while mixing with flour to keep sauce smooth.
Serve immediately to enjoy shrimp at their tender best.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Sautéing
Cuisine: Hungarian-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 320 kcal
Sugar: 3 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 8 g
Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 10 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 28 g
Cholesterol: 195 mg

Keywords: shrimp, paprikash, creamy, paprika, quick dinner, comfort food, easy recipe