Keto Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Crab Skillet Recipe
Keto Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Crab Skillet combines tender shrimp, delicate crab meat, garlic butter, and melted cheese in a rich, creamy sauce. It is a protein-rich, low-carb seafood dinner that can fit into a ketogenic eating plan when prepared with suitable ingredients. The one-pan cooking method keeps preparation straightforward, while lemon and parsley balance the buttery richness. Serve it with cauliflower rice or roasted vegetables for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound raw shrimp peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces cooked crab meat checked for shell fragments
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 4 ounces full-fat cream cheese softened and cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 cup shredded low-moisture mozzarella
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry and season with paprika, black pepper, and a small pinch of salt. Drain the cooked crab meat and check for shell fragments.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for approximately 1–2 minutes per side, depending on size. Transfer to a clean plate and ensure the shrimp reach 145°F (63°C) before serving.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring continuously until fragrant.
- Add the Italian seasoning and optional red pepper flakes. Stir briefly to distribute the seasonings.
- Add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir over low heat until the cream cheese incorporates and the sauce begins to smooth out.
- Gradually stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan. Continue stirring until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes creamy. Avoid boiling the mixture.
- Stir in the lemon juice and taste before adding more salt.
- Gently fold in the cooked crab meat and warm for approximately 1–2 minutes without breaking up the larger pieces.
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently coat with the sauce. Warm for another 1–2 minutes as needed, ensuring the seafood is thoroughly cooked and hot.
- Turn off the heat, stir in half the parsley, and garnish with the remainder. Serve immediately with cauliflower rice, sautéed zucchini, or another low-carb side.