Name: Irresistibly Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Large shrimp (Peeled and deveined for quicker cooking); 4 cloves Garlic (Fresh is a must for robust taste); 2 tbsp Butter (Can substitute with ghee or vegan butter); 1 cup Cream or Half-and-Half (Heavy cream gives a richer texture); 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated for nutty depth); 0.25 cup Herbs (Parsley or Thyme) (Use fresh for the best flavor); 1 tbsp Lemon Juice (Optional, for balancing acidity); 2 cups Cooked Rice (Warm and fluffy, serves as the base)

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Imagine walking into your kitchen, the air filled with the mouthwatering aroma of sizzling garlic and butter. Instantly, my appetite piques as I recall a busy evening when I needed something quick yet indulgent to unwind after a long day. Enter the star of the hour: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice.

This delightful dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting one-pan meal that’s as satisfying to make as it is to eat. Picture plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a lusciously creamy sauce, enriched with the nutty flavors of parmesan and fresh herbs, all nestled atop a bed of fluffy rice. It’s pure bliss on a plate!

Whether you’re catering to a special date night, prepping a family dinner, or just craving something scrumptious, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser. Plus, its versatility allows for easy adaptations for dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can indulge without compromise. Grab your skillet, and let’s whip up this quick and comforting meal that promises to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire!

Why will you love Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?

Unmatched Convenience: This one-pan wonder is a quick meal solution, ready in under 30 minutes.

Decadent Creaminess: The rich garlic butter sauce envelops plump shrimp, giving every bite a luxurious touch.

Versatile Options: Easily adapt for dietary needs like gluten-free or dairy-free—everyone can enjoy!

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Perfect for family dinners or date nights, this dish satisfies even the pickiest eaters.

Simple Ingredients: You’ll find everything you need right in your pantry, turning an ordinary evening into a gourmet experience.

For a delightful side, try pairing it with Comforting Chicken Sweetcorn!

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients

• Perfect for your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice!

For the Shrimp

Large shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quicker cooking and enhanced flavor.

For the Sauce

Garlic – Fresh garlic is a must; don’t skimp on at least 4 cloves for a robust taste.
Butter – The star of the sauce; feel free to substitute with ghee or vegan butter.
Cream or Half-and-Half – For that indulgent creamy texture; heavy cream is richer, while half-and-half is lighter.
Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated cheese adds a nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.

Extras

Herbs (Parsley or Thyme) – They brighten the richness; use fresh for the best flavor.
Lemon Juice (Optional) – A splash of acidity balances the creaminess beautifully.
Cooked Rice (White, Brown, or Cauliflower) – Ensure it’s warm and fluffy; this serves as the wholesome base for your dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Prep the Shrimp: Thaw and pat dry 1 lb of shrimp. Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika to infuse extra flavor. This ensures your shrimp are ready for a flavorful sear.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Sear the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque; then, remove them from the skillet to rest.
Build the Sauce: Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining butter, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in cream and parmesan; simmer until the sauce thickens, approximately 3–5 minutes.
Combine Shrimp with Sauce: Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Heat through for 1–2 minutes, ensuring everything is well combined and seasoned to your taste.
Serve: Spoon warm, fluffy rice onto plates, and generously top with shrimp and the luscious sauce. For a beautiful finish, garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of lemon zest.

Optional: Drizzle with more lemon juice for added freshness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Fridge: Store your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure the shrimp is cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: You can freeze the shrimp and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers, and remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

Leftover Rice: Store cooked rice separately in the fridge for up to 4 days. Combine with the shrimp and sauce when ready to serve, making for an easy, delicious meal.

What to Serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?

Looking to elevate your dinner table with delightful pairings that harmonize with the rich flavors of creamy garlic butter shrimp?

Garlic Green Beans: Freshly sautéed, these crisp beans add a vibrant crunch that complements the creamy shrimp beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus brings a hint of earthiness, balancing the richness and providing a delicious contrast in texture.
Light Arugula Salad: A simple salad with a zesty vinaigrette refreshes the palate and adds a peppery note that lifts the meal.
Buttery Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn enhances the comfort of this meal, making it feel like a warm hug on your plate. Enjoying it with every bite is simply irresistible!
Crusty Bread: A warm loaf or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce, making every last morsel count.
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, a light lemon sorbet offers a refreshing finish, cleansing the palate and tying back to the citrus notes in the shrimp dish.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay enhances the dish’s flavors while providing a chic touch to your dining experience.

Create a balanced meal with these delightful accompaniments, ensuring every bite of your creamy garlic butter shrimp is as memorable as the last!

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to play with the ingredients, adding your personal touch to boost flavor and meet dietary needs.

Dairy-Free: Swap cream for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative to keep it luscious without the lactose.
Embrace the creamy richness of coconut, which adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a wholesome, lower-carb version without sacrificing flavor.
Cauliflower rice absorbs the garlic butter sauce wonderfully, making each bite a satisfying experience.
Veggie-Packed: Toss in some baby spinach or cherry tomatoes around the end of cooking for a colorful, nutritious twist.
This not only adds vibrancy but also brings added vitamins while keeping the dish comforting and delightful.
Heat Lover’s Twist: For a spicy kick, mix in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the garlic.
These fiery additions elevate the dish, creating a tantalizing warmth that’s sure to please spicy food enthusiasts.
Cajun Kick: Substitute regular spices with Cajun seasoning for a zesty, bold flavor profile that takes this dish to new heights.
The blend of spices will transform your meal into a Southern-inspired delight, bursting with character.
Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh basil or coriander in place of parsley for a completely new flavor profile.
Each herb brings its unique essence, refreshing the dish and transporting your taste buds to exciting culinary realms.
Lemon Zest: Brighten the flavors by adding lemon zest along with the juice for an extra layer of citrus brightness.
This simple enhancement will lift the creamy sauce, making every bite feel fresh and light.
Nutty Flavor Boost: Consider folding in toasted pine nuts or sliced almonds before serving for an added crunch and nutty depth.
This textural twist not only elevates the dish but also adds an appealing contrast to the creamy sauce.

Expert Tips for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Perfectly Pink Shrimp: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should curl into a “C” shape and turn pink. Remove them as soon as they are opaque to maintain their tenderness.
Fresh is Best: Always use fresh garlic rather than jarred to ensure that bold, aromatic flavor truly shines in your creamy garlic butter shrimp dish.
Creamier Sauce: If you love indulgence, consider doubling the sauce ingredients to achieve that dreamy, creamy consistency that envelops every bite.
Flavor Additions: For a taste boost, feel free to add a splash of white wine after sautéing the garlic—let it evaporate before adding the cream for a depth of flavor.
Control the Heat: If you like a kick, sprinkle in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce right after returning the shrimp to the skillet. It’s an easy way to customize this quick meal!

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe FAQs

What kind of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the best results. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but properly thawed frozen shrimp works well too. Tail-on shrimp can enhance the presentation, making the dish even more appealing!

How should I store leftovers, and how long will they last?
Your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp cool down before sealing to keep them fresh. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a quick meal for busy nights!

Can I freeze Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Yes, you can! To freeze, store the shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 2 months. Be sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop.

What if my sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce is too thick when reheating, don’t worry—it happens! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or milk, and stir well until it reaches your desired consistency. It’s an easy fix that keeps the sauce smooth and creamy, just as it should be!

Is this recipe suitable for someone with dietary restrictions?
Definitely! You can easily adapt the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice for various dietary needs. For a dairy-free version, swap the cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free alternative. Additionally, you can use cauliflower rice for a low-carb option and still enjoy all the comforting flavors!

How can I prevent overcooking the shrimp?
Very! To avoid overcooking shrimp, keep an eye on them while cooking. They should curl into a “C” shape and be opaque in the center when done. Typically, cooking for about 2–3 minutes per side over medium-high heat is perfect. If you’re unsure, it’s best to take them off the heat just a touch early!