Creamy Tuscan Shrimp Packets

This creamy Tuscan shrimp recipe wrapped in foil packets delivers a restaurant-worthy dinner with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender shrimp, burst tomatoes, and a silky garlic parmesan sauce creates a luxurious meal that feels indulgent yet comes together in minutes.

I first made these shrimp packets during a summer rental when kitchen supplies were limited. What started as a necessity has become one of my most requested recipes when friends come over for casual dinners.

Ingredients

• Shrimp carefully peeled and deveined for quick cooking and tender texture
• Cherry tomatoes that burst during cooking creating sweet pockets of flavor
• Unsalted butter forming the rich base of our sauce while allowing seasoning control
• Fresh garlic minced finely to infuse the sauce with aromatic flavor
• Italian seasoning providing a balanced herb blend that complements the Tuscan profile
• Heavy cream creating that luxurious silky texture that coats each shrimp perfectly
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adding nutty depth and thickening the sauce naturally
• Fresh basil bringing brightness and authentic Italian character to the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat and Prepare

Set your oven to 400°F or get your grill to medium high heat. Cut two large pieces of heavy duty aluminum foil about 12x16 inches each. This size gives you plenty of room to create a sealed environment for steam to circulate. Lightly coat the foil with cooking spray or brush with a bit of butter to prevent sticking.

Create the Sauce

Combine the melted butter with minced garlic in a bowl until well integrated. The warm butter helps release the garlic oils for maximum flavor. Add Italian seasoning crushing it slightly between your fingers to release the essential oils. Incorporate the crushed red pepper flakes if using they add a subtle heat that builds beautifully. Pour in the heavy cream and fold in the freshly grated Parmesan until just combined. Season generously with salt and pepper the sauce will flavor everything in the packet.

Assemble Your Packets

Arrange the shrimp in an even layer on each foil piece ensuring they have some space between them for even cooking. Scatter the halved cherry tomatoes around and between the shrimp. Pour the prepared sauce evenly over each portion making sure to coat all the ingredients. Fold the long sides of the foil toward the center then fold up the ends creating a secure but slightly loose packet that allows steam to circulate.

Cook to Perfection

For oven cooking place the packets on a baking sheet and bake for 15 to 18 minutes. If grilling place packets directly on the grates cover and cook for 10 to 12 minutes. The shrimp are done when they turn pink opaque and slightly curled. Avoid overcooking as shrimp can quickly become rubbery.

Serve with Flair

Open each packet carefully as hot steam will escape. Spoon the accumulated sauce over the shrimp and tomatoes. Scatter fresh basil over the top and finish with an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese. The contrast of the bright herbs against the creamy sauce creates both visual appeal and flavor complexity.

Save

This dish reminds me of my first trip to Tuscany where I discovered how the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals. The combination of sweet shrimp and acidic tomatoes balanced by creamy cheese is quintessentially Italian in its perfect simplicity.

Make Ahead Options

These packets can be assembled up to 8 hours before cooking. Simply prepare as directed but store in the refrigerator until ready to cook. This makes them perfect for entertaining or busy weeknights when you want to prep earlier in the day. Add an extra 2 minutes to the cooking time if cooking from cold. The flavors actually improve with a bit of marinating time allowing the garlic and herbs to infuse the butter and cream mixture.

Perfect Pairings

While these shrimp packets are a complete protein on their own they pair beautifully with simple sides. A crusty baguette is essential for soaking up the incredible sauce. For a more substantial meal serve over angel hair pasta tossed with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon. For a lowcarb option consider serving alongside roasted asparagus or zucchini noodles which can be prepared while the packets cook.

Ingredient Substitutions

Dont have all the exact ingredients? This recipe is forgiving and adaptable. Substitute half and half for heavy cream for a lighter version. No Italian seasoning? Use a combination of oregano basil and thyme. Frozen shrimp work perfectly just thaw completely and pat dry before using. For a dairy free version replace butter with olive oil and omit the cheese adding nutritional yeast for a similar savory quality.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I prepare these foil packets ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the foil packets up to 4 hours ahead of time and refrigerate them. Just add 1-2 minutes to the cooking time since you'll be starting with cold ingredients.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

Half-and-half or coconut cream work well as substitutes. For a lighter version, try using Greek yogurt mixed with a little milk, though this should be added after cooking to prevent curdling.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Properly cooked shrimp turn from gray and translucent to opaque pink with a slight C-shape. If they curl into a tight O-shape, they're overcooked. Start checking at the minimum cooking time to prevent overcooking.

→ Can I add vegetables to the foil packets?

Absolutely! Quick-cooking vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers work wonderfully. For harder vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, pre-steam them slightly before adding to ensure even cooking.

→ Is there a way to make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute butter with olive oil, and replace heavy cream and Parmesan with full-fat coconut milk and nutritional yeast. The flavor profile will change slightly but will still be delicious with the Italian seasonings.

→ Can I cook these packets on a campfire?

Definitely! Place the sealed packets on a grill grate over medium coals (not direct flames) for about 10-12 minutes. Use extra-heavy duty foil for campfire cooking to prevent tearing.