Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

If there’s one thing that makes weeknight dinners feel like a treat, it’s a dish that’s rich, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. Enter Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice—a decadent one-pan meal that combines tender shrimp, garlicky butter, and a luscious parmesan cream sauce, all served over a bed of perfectly cooked rice.

This recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, special dinners, or even meal prep for the week. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying. Plus, it has that irresistible restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss or fancy equipment.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Minimal cleanup, maximum flavor.
• Quick prep and cooking: Ready in just 25 minutes.
• Rich and comforting flavors: Garlic butter, parmesan, and cream make every bite indulgent.
• Versatile base: Serve over white, brown, or cauliflower rice.
• Customizable: Add veggies like spinach, peas, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Family-friendly: Creamy, mild, and loved by both kids and adults.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s the full list of ingredients with exact measurements, organized for clarity.

Main Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

Sauce Ingredients

• 2 tbsp butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
• 1/3 cup parmesan, freshly grated
• 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)

Base

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)

Garnish

• Fresh parsley or green onion

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs for shrimp
• Grater for parmesan
• Medium pot for rice (if not using pre-cooked rice)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps for perfectly cooked shrimp in a creamy garlic butter sauce.

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry. In a medium bowl, season with salt, black pepper, and paprika. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavor of the shrimp without overpowering it.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sear for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

Stir in heavy cream (or half-and-half), parmesan, and optional lemon juice. Simmer the sauce for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly. The parmesan adds a savory richness that blends perfectly with the garlic butter.

Step 5: Return Shrimp to Pan

Add the seared shrimp back into the pan and toss them gently in the sauce. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes to heat through and allow the shrimp to absorb the flavors.

Step 6: Serve Over Rice

Divide the cooked rice among plates or bowls and spoon the creamy garlic butter shrimp over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

• Vegetable additions: Toss in baby spinach, peas, or asparagus for a balanced, veggie-rich meal.
• Dairy-free option: Use plant-based butter and a non-dairy cream alternative.
• Extra flavor: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat or smoked paprika for depth.
• Make it lemony: Squeeze fresh lemon over the shrimp before serving for extra brightness.
• Rice alternatives: Swap white rice for quinoa, brown rice, or cauliflower rice to suit dietary preferences.

Flavor Profile & Pairings

• Taste: Creamy, garlicky, and slightly nutty from parmesan with a subtle smokiness from paprika.
• Texture: Juicy, tender shrimp balanced by silky sauce and fluffy rice.
• Serving Suggestions: Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Nutritional Overview (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~450 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	10 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	550 mg
Cholesterol	190 mg

Dietary Notes: Can be adapted for dairy-free diets. Gluten-free if served with rice or gluten-free grains.

Make-Ahead & Meal Prep Tips

• Prep shrimp in advance: Peel, devein, and season shrimp, storing them in the fridge until ready to cook.
• Cook rice ahead of time: Refrigerate or freeze cooked rice to save time on busy nights.
• Cream sauce: Make sauce ahead and reheat gently, then add shrimp just before serving to avoid overcooking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess water in the sauce.

Q2: Can I make this keto-friendly?
Serve over cauliflower rice and use full-fat cream for a low-carb version.

Q3: Can I add other seafood?
Yes, scallops or firm white fish cubes work well. Adjust cooking times as needed.

Q4: Can I use pre-grated parmesan?
Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for flavor and smooth melting, but pre-grated works in a pinch.

Q5: Can I store this dish after combining with rice?
Yes, but the rice will absorb some sauce. Store in separate containers for best texture.

Cooking Timeline (At a Glance)

Step	Time
Prep shrimp & ingredients	10 minutes
Cook shrimp	4–6 minutes
Sauté garlic & make sauce	3–4 minutes
Combine shrimp & sauce	1–2 minutes
Serve over rice	2–3 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in shallow bowls for a cozy, homey presentation.
• Garnish with finely chopped parsley or sliced green onions for color.
• Add a wedge of lemon for guests who want extra brightness.
• Pair with a light salad for a complete, balanced meal.

Creative Recipe Variations

1. Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add red pepper flakes and smoked paprika for heat.
2. Shrimp Alfredo Style: Increase cream and parmesan for a richer, thicker sauce.
3. Shrimp & Veggie Medley: Add zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to bulk up the dish.
4. Herb-Infused Version: Stir in fresh basil, thyme, or dill before serving.

Ingredient Spotlight

Shrimp

• Selection: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for tender, juicy bites.
• Storage: Keep refrigerated and use within 1–2 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Parmesan Cheese

• Selection: Freshly grated parmesan provides creamy richness and melts smoothly into the sauce.
• Tip: Avoid pre-shredded cheese with anti-caking agents for the best texture.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Pat shrimp dry to get a good sear and avoid watery sauce.
• Cook shrimp just until pink—overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Simmer sauce gently; high heat can cause cream to separate.
• Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to gently combine shrimp and sauce.

Storage & Freezing Guide

• Refrigeration: Store cooked shrimp and sauce in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended after combining with cream sauce; shrimp may become rubbery.
• Make-ahead tips: Store cooked shrimp and sauce separately from rice and reheat gently.

Nutrition Estimate Table (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450 kcal
Protein	30 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	22 g
Saturated Fat	10 g
Fiber	1 g
Sodium	550 mg
Cholesterol	190 mg
Dietary Notes	Gluten-free if served with rice; dairy-free option available

Expanded Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is the ultimate one-pan comfort meal that combines speed, flavor, and elegance. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, casual dinners, or impressing guests with minimal effort. The garlic butter parmesan sauce elevates succulent shrimp into a rich, indulgent dish while rice provides a warm, satisfying base.

This recipe is adaptable, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. Whether you add vegetables, swap the rice, or try a dairy-free version, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Try it tonight, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home in just 25 minutes. Your taste buds—and your schedule—will thank you.

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