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Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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