Camarones Al Ajillo

These creamy garlic shrimp are packed with bold, savory flavor! Juicy shrimp are sautéed in olive oil, garlic, and spices, then simmered in a rich sauce made with table cream. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing recipe that’s perfect with rice, tostones, or pasta.

Camarones al ajillo is a classic Latin dish that celebrates garlic in the best way. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and always a hit. I love serving it for a quick weeknight dinner or as part of a bigger spread. Everyone always goes back for seconds!

The sauce is creamy, garlicky, and just a little spicy. You’ll want to soak up every last bite.

Irresistible Camarones al Ajillo

Enjoy this bold shrimp recipe anytime. The flavor is rich and comforting, with just the right amount of heat. Here are a few reasons why I love this recipe:

Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep.
Creamy garlic sauce: Full of flavor without being too heavy.
Versatile: Serve it with tostones,monfongo, rice, mashed potatoes or on its own. Be creative!

Ingredients You Need

This creamy shrimp dish is made with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

NOTE: The full list of ingredients with measurements is provided in the recipe card below.

Shrimp: Peeled and deveined. I use large shrimp for best results.
Olive Oil: Used to season the shrimp and sauté aromatics.
Butter: Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
Garlic: The key ingredient—use fresh cloves.
Onion: Adds sweetness and balance.
White Wine: For deglazing and extra flavor.
Table Cream: Also known as media crema. You can substitute with heavy cream.
Paprika: Adds mild heat and color.
Salt + Pepper: To season everything.
Fresh Cilantro: Optional garnish.

How to Make Camarones al Ajillo

This flavorful dish comes together in just a few easy steps. Here’s how to make it:

Cook the aromatics: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened.
Deglaze: Add white wine and simmer until slightly reduced.
Add shrimp: Season shrimp with olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side.
Make it creamy: Stir in table cream and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until slightly thickened.
Garnish: Sprinkle with chopped cilantro, if desired.

Substitutions and Variations

Cream: You can substitute the Crema de Leche with heavy cream.
Spice: Add red pepper flakes or cayenne if you want extra heat.
No wine? Use a splash of broth instead.
Garnish: Not a fan of cilantro? Try chopped parsley.

Recipe Tips

Don’t overcook the shrimp: They should be pink and form a “C” shape when fully cooked.
Use fresh garlic: It’s the key flavor in this dish.
Deglaze the pan: Scrape up all the bits after adding wine for maximum flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Camarones al ajillo is best enjoyed fresh, but you can make some parts ahead:

Make ahead: You can season the shrimp and prep your aromatics in advance.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently.

More Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love

• Stuffed Shrimp

• Fried Calamari

• Seafood Salad

• Crab Rangoon Dip