Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a quick and flavorful dinner that comes together in just minutes. Succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce served over your choice of rice makes for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 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)
• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
• Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish

Instructions

1. Step 1: Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly.
2. Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and sear until pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp and set aside.
3. Step 3: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream, grated parmesan, and optional lemon juice. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 2–3 minutes.
5. Step 5: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing them in the sauce to coat well. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
6. Step 6: Serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp over warm cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or green onion before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for variety.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Use fresh lemon juice just before serving for a bright finish.
• Cauliflower rice works well for a low-carb option.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. If the sauce thickens too much, stir in a splash of cream or milk while reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they sear properly.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

Any rice works well, including white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. Choose your favorite to suit your dietary preference.

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 126 reviews

This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a quick and delicious skillet meal featuring tender shrimp seared in butter and garlic, then simmered in a rich cream and parmesan sauce. Served over fluffy cooked rice and garnished with fresh herbs, it makes for an elegant yet easy dinner perfect for any night of the week.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Shrimp and Seasoning

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Sauce

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

Base and Garnish

• 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
• Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season Shrimp: In a bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika until evenly coated.
2. Sear Shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté Garlic: Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet, then add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
4. Make Cream Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), freshly grated parmesan, and optional lemon juice. Let the mixture simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the seared shrimp to the pan and toss to coat in the creamy garlic sauce. Cook together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and meld the flavors.
6. Serve: Spoon the creamy garlic butter shrimp and sauce over warm cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onion, then serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

• For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for variation.
• Freshly grated parmesan is recommended for best flavor and texture.
• Adjust garlic amount according to your preference for pungency.
• Serve with steamed vegetables or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, creamy shrimp, shrimp recipe, easy dinner, skillet shrimp, parmesan shrimp, shrimp with rice