Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a luxurious yet comforting dish that brings the magic of a gourmet seafood meal into your own kitchen. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp bathed in a rich, velvety garlic butter sauce, each bite bursting with luscious flavor. The creaminess envelopes the shrimp while aromatic garlic and a touch of seasoning enhance every mouthful.
Nestled over a bed of fluffy rice that soaks up all that heavenly sauce, this meal is nothing short of spectacular! Inspired by classic French butter sauces and American comfort food traditions, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners, impressive date nights, or elegant dinner parties. Its quick preparation time means you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. What makes it truly special is the balance between richness and freshness—the cream sauce is decadent without being overwhelming, and the tender shrimp keep the dish light and lively. Let’s dive into the delicious world of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice!
Ingredients
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
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Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully without releasing too much water.
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Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika for a gentle kick of smoky flavor.
Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp
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In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts and begins to sizzle, add the shrimp in a single layer.
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Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
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In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to brown the garlic!
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish. Add the red pepper flakes if you desire a little heat. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the luscious sauce.
Variations
• Add a handful of baby spinach to the sauce for a pop of color and extra nutrition.
• Substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream to give the dish a tropical flair.
• Use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a wholesome, nutty alternative.
• Toss in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for added depth of flavor.
COOKING Note
• Choose fresh, high-quality shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they should be just pink and slightly firm.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-shredded for smoother melting.
Serving Suggestions
• Serve the shrimp and sauce generously over a mound of fluffy white rice to soak up all the creamy goodness.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a restaurant-style finish.
• Add a few lemon wedges on the side to brighten the rich sauce with a burst of citrus.
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Helpful Tips
• Always thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water if you’re in a hurry.
• Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed for perfect seasoning.
• Let the sauce simmer gently—boiling can cause the cream to separate and the cheese to clump.
• Prepare the rice in advance or use a rice cooker to make dinnertime stress-free.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 28g
Sodium: 680mg
Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Overcrowding the pan when cooking shrimp—this causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if needed.
• Overcooking the garlic—burnt garlic will make the entire sauce taste bitter.
• Using low-fat cream or milk—the sauce won’t achieve the desired creamy richness.
• Skipping the resting time—allow the shrimp to sit in the sauce for a minute or two to absorb all the flavors before serving.
Conclusion
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is an irresistible dish that combines simple ingredients into a sensational, elegant meal. With tender shrimp wrapped in a luxurious garlic butter cream sauce and paired with fluffy rice, it’s an unforgettable flavor experience that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether you’re impressing guests or treating yourself to a special night in, this recipe will leave everyone asking for seconds! The beauty lies in its versatility and speed—it proves that you don’t need complicated techniques or fancy ingredients to create something truly spectacular. Go ahead and whip up this fabulous dish tonight; your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work beautifully! Just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a tropical twist.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for more heat.
CREAMY GARLIC BUTTER SHRIMP WITH RICE
- Total Time: 25
- Yield: H3
Ingredients
Ingredients
• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step
Step 1: Preparing the Shrimp
-
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear beautifully without releasing too much water.
-
Season the shrimp lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika for a gentle kick of smoky flavor.
Step 2: Cooking the Shrimp
-
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter melts and begins to sizzle, add the shrimp in a single layer.
-
Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Making the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
-
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds—be careful not to brown the garlic!
-
Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into the sauce for a creamy, cheesy finish. Add the red pepper flakes if you desire a little heat. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the luscious sauce.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 15
Nutrition
- Calories: 480
- Sodium: 680mg
- Protein: 28g