1-First Step: Get everything ready Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This small step matters because dry shrimp sear better than wet shrimp. If the shrimp is damp, it tends to steam instead of brown. Set out the salt, pepper, garlic, cream, wine, seasoning, cheese, and parsley before you begin, since this dish moves fast once the skillet gets hot. If you are serving this with pasta, rice, or bread, get that ready too. Because the total cook time is so short, it helps to have your side dish waiting.

2-Second Step: Sear the shrimp Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 minutes. The oil should be hot before the shrimp goes in. Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Season with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper while they cook. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Do not let them sit in the pan too long, or they may become rubbery.

3-Third Step: Build the garlic sauce Using the same skillet keeps all the good flavor from the shrimp in the pan. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. The garlic should smell amazing, but it should not brown. Next, pour in 2 tablespoons white wine and stir for about 1 minute. This helps loosen the browned bits stuck to the skillet and adds a deeper flavor to the sauce. If you do not want to use wine, a little stock can work too.

4-Fourth Step: Make it creamy Stir in 1 1/2 cups heavy cream, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese or grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir often while it thickens, but do not let it boil hard. Keeping the heat moderate helps the sauce stay smooth. If you add the cheese slowly, it melts more evenly and gives the sauce a silkier finish. This is one of the keys to a good creamy shrimp recipe.

5-Final Step: Finish and serve Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce until coated. Let them warm through for about 1 minute. Finish with 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh parsley for a fresh pop of color. Serve the dish right away with pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or bread for dipping. The sauce is best when it is warm and silky.