Ruth’s Chris spicy cream sauce is a must-try for anyone who enjoys a rich, slightly spicy sauce that elevates seafood, chicken, or steak.
This velvety sauce balances creaminess with a gentle heat, making it an excellent finishing touch for a variety of dishes.
Using high-quality butter and heavy cream ensures a smooth, luxurious base, while fresh garlic and red pepper flakes provide the bright, spicy notes.
To avoid bitterness, sauté the garlic and red pepper flakes just until fragrant—about 1–2 minutes—then deglaze the pan with white wine before adding the cream.
This recipe is versatile: it pairs beautifully with shrimp, chicken, or a well-seared steak, and works equally well as a dipping sauce for crusty bread or roasted vegetables.
Contents:
How to Make Ruth’s Chris Spicy Cream Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 green onions, chopped
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1:
Heat a sauté pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Sear the shrimp about 1–2 minutes per side until just cooked through; remove and keep warm.
Step 2:
In the same pan, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes and sauté briefly, about 1–2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
Step 3:
Deglaze the pan with the white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Cook until the wine is reduced by half.
Stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4:
Season with salt and black pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce for 5–7 minutes, or until it reaches your desired thickness.
Step 5:
Return the shrimp to the pan, add the chopped green onions, and warm through for 2–3 minutes. Serve immediately over rice, potatoes, or alongside grilled vegetables.
Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe
Use Fresh Ingredients
Fresh shrimp and garlic make a noticeable difference in flavor and texture.
Adjust the Spice Level
Reduce red pepper flakes for milder heat or add more for a bolder kick. Taste as you go to get the balance you prefer.
Simmer for Thickness
Let the sauce reduce gently until it coats the back of a spoon. Avoid high heat, which can scorch dairy and create a bitter flavor.
Preheat the Pan
Preheating prevents sticking and helps develop a good sear on the shrimp for better texture.
What to Serve with Ruth’s Chris Spicy Cream Sauce Recipe
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Creamy garlic mashed potatoes are an ideal pairing; their smooth texture complements the sauce’s richness.
Steamed Asparagus
Steamed asparagus adds freshness and a pleasant crunch; finish with lemon zest to brighten the plate.
Crusty French Bread
Warm crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaks up every bit of the creamy sauce.
Grilled Pineapple
Grilled pineapple provides a sweet contrast that pairs surprisingly well with the sauce’s heat—slice and char until caramelized.
Sautéed Spinach
A quick sauté of spinach with garlic keeps the meal light and balances the richness of the cream sauce.
Sweet Potato Fries
Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture that contrast nicely with the spicy cream.
Variations and Substitutions
Different Spices
Boost heat with cayenne or hot sauce, or soften the profile by swapping black pepper for smoked paprika. Adjust spices to suit your palate.
Dairy Alternatives
For lactose-free options, use coconut cream or a full-fat plant-based cream; expect subtle flavor changes but similar creaminess. Dairy-free butter can replace butter for richness.
Herb Swaps
Swap fresh herbs to change the sauce’s aroma—try thyme, oregano, or a small amount of rosemary. If using dried herbs, reduce quantities since they’re more concentrated.
How to Store Leftover Spicy Cream Sauce
Use an Airtight Container
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep flavors intact and prevent absorption of other odors.
Refrigerate Promptly
Refrigerate within two hours of cooking and keep at or below 40°F (4°C) to maintain quality.
Label with a Date
Label containers with the preparation date and use within 3–4 days for best taste and safety.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t overcook the shrimp—watch closely, as shrimp becomes rubbery when overdone.
Avoid cooking the cream on high heat to prevent scorching and a bitter flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan when searing shrimp; give pieces space so they brown evenly and develop a good texture.