why make this recipe
This dish is quick, tasty, and comforting. You get juicy shrimp, a rich garlic butter sauce, and warm rice in one plate. It works for a fast weeknight meal or a simple dinner with friends.
introduction
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice uses few ingredients and cooks fast. The sauce is rich but not heavy. You can pair it with simple sides or try a lighter option like cauliflower rice. If you like seafood and creamy sauce, this will please you. For other quick seafood ideas, check this lemon garlic parmesan cod.
how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Work in steps: season, sear shrimp, make the sauce, and combine with rice. Keep heat medium to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Use room-temperature shrimp if you can so they cook evenly. For a different spice profile, see this cajun shrimp pasta for ideas on seasoning and heat levels.
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
Directions :
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sear shrimp in 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until pink, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the pan.
- Lower the heat. Add remaining butter and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in cream, parmesan, and lemon juice. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return shrimp to the pan and toss in the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes more until heated through.
- Serve shrimp and sauce over warm rice. Garnish with parsley or green onion and enjoy.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Spoon the shrimp and sauce over a bed of warm rice. Add a simple green salad or steamed vegetables on the side. Sprinkle extra parmesan or chopped parsley for color. Serve with lemon wedges if you like extra brightness.
how to store Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Cool the shrimp and rice to room temperature within two hours. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Do not freeze cooked cream sauce; texture may change.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning so they sear well.
- Do not overcook shrimp; remove them as soon as they turn pink.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce.
- If you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream.
- For a full meal idea that pairs well with this style, try a simple chicken casserole on the side.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap parmesan for pecorino for a sharper taste.
- Use lemon zest and extra juice for a brighter sauce.
- Serve over pasta, quinoa, or sautéed greens instead of rice.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a dairy-free cream and a vegan parmesan substitute. The sauce will be different but still tasty.
Q: How long does the sauce take to thicken?
A: A few minutes on low heat. Stir often to avoid sticking.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes. Use a larger pan and watch the cooking time so shrimp do not overcook.
Conclusion
For another creamy shrimp idea and extra tips, see this guide: Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Ahead of Thyme
Print
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Description
A quick and comforting dish featuring juicy shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce served over warm rice.
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
- Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Sear shrimp in 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until pink, about 2–3 minutes per side. Remove shrimp from the pan.
- Lower the heat. Add remaining butter and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Stir in cream, parmesan, and lemon juice. Simmer until slightly thickened.
- Return shrimp to the pan and toss in the sauce. Cook for 1–2 minutes more until heated through.
- Serve shrimp and sauce over warm rice. Garnish with parsley or green onion and enjoy.
Notes
Pat shrimp dry before seasoning for better searing. Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor. Cool the dish properly if storing, and avoid freezing the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: shrimp, garlic butter, creamy sauce, quick meal, seafood recipe