If you’re looking for a vibrant and utterly delicious dish to spice up your dinner routine, this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends tender, juicy shrimp with a rich, garlicky tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavors—from the subtle smokiness of paprika to the gentle heat of red pepper flakes. Perfectly simple yet impressive, this recipe delivers on taste and comes together quickly, making it a fantastic choice for both weekday meals and special occasions.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe lies not just in the cooking but in the straightforward ingredients that bring so much character to the dish. Each plays a key role, whether it’s adding freshness, depth, or that irresistible savory kick.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish that cooks quickly and absorbs all the wonderful flavors.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps to sauté the garlic and shrimp perfectly.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with bold, aromatic punch you can’t resist.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped): The base of the tomato sauce, providing natural sweetness and acidity.
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional): Elevates the sauce with a mild fruity tang and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy herbal note that complements the tomato base beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste): Lends a gentle heat to wake up your taste buds.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky depth and rich color.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance every ingredient.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, green finish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (for garnish): Adds fragrant herbal notes and color contrast.
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving): A savory topping that adds creamy richness.
- Pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving): Choose your favorite vehicle to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce.
How to Make Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Shrimp
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the shrimp and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. They’ll turn a beautiful pink and become opaque—that means they’re perfectly cooked. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside for now. This quick sear locks in their sweet juiciness, ready to mingle back into the sauce later.
Step 2: Make the Tomato Sauce
Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but just before it starts browning—this keeps the flavor bright and fresh without bitterness.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices, and add the white wine if you’re using it. Stir everything together, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, plus salt and pepper. Let this sauce bubble away gently for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, it will thicken slightly and the flavors will deepen—this is where your sauce truly comes to life.
Step 4: Add the Shrimp
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and carefully stir to coat them in the rich tomato sauce. Let the shrimp warm back up in the sauce for 2 to 3 minutes. This step lets the shrimp soak up all those delicious spices while making sure they stay tender and juicy.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Finish your Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe by sprinkling freshly chopped parsley and basil on top. For an extra treat, add a generous dash of grated Parmesan cheese. The fresh herbs bring a light, herbaceous brightness that contrasts beautifully with the depth of the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
This dish goes perfectly over your favorite pasta, a fluffy bed of rice, or simply alongside warm, crusty bread to scoop up every flavorful drop. It’s versatile, comforting, and guaranteed to make your table smile.
How to Serve Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley and basil at the end brings vibrant color and a burst of herbal freshness that brightens the entire plate. A little sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds a subtle saltiness and creamy texture, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides like steamed rice or al dente pasta, which absorb the sauce perfectly. For a more rustic touch, serve it with crusty bread that can be dipped into the sauce for an indulgent bite. A light side salad with citrusy vinaigrette also makes a refreshing contrast.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your meal memorable by serving the shrimp and sauce over polenta for a creamy, comforting base. Or try plating it in shallow bowls with a drizzle of good olive oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes for a restaurant-style touch that’s sure to impress guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from the Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to two days, making it easy to enjoy this tasty meal again the next day without losing flavor or texture.
Freezing
Because shrimp can become rubbery if frozen then reheated, I recommend freezing the sauce separately if you want to prep ahead. Freeze it in a sealed container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the sauce and quickly toss in freshly cooked shrimp.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce vibrant. Adding a splash of water or broth can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but it’s best to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. This ensures they sear nicely and absorb the sauce flavors well.
What can I substitute for white wine in the recipe?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth, which will still add some depth without altering the dish’s flavor significantly.
Is this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe spicy?
The recipe includes crushed red pepper flakes, which add a gentle heat that you can adjust to your liking. If you prefer milder flavors, simply reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! The recipe itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to serve it with gluten-free pasta or rice rather than traditional bread.
How long does this dish take to prepare?
This Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe comes together quickly—about 5 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook—making it a perfect weeknight meal when you want something fast but impressive.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe enough for anyone who loves bold, fresh flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a delightful balance of juicy shrimp, garlicky goodness, and a tomato sauce that’s both comforting and exciting. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite go-to meal!
Print
Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Garlic Shrimp in Tomato Sauce recipe offers a quick and flavorful seafood dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich tomato and garlic sauce with herbs and spices, perfect to enjoy over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or 4 fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Serving Suggestions
- Pasta, rice, or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Add the diced tomatoes with their juice to the skillet along with the white wine if using. Stir to combine. Add oregano, crushed red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Add the Shrimp: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to coat them in the tomato sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley and basil over the dish before serving. Optionally, top with grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Serve: Serve the garlic shrimp and tomato sauce over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes.
- If fresh tomatoes are in season, they can be used instead of canned diced tomatoes.
- White wine adds depth but can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version.
- Serve immediately for best texture and flavor of shrimp.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
