Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice

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Juicy shrimp kissed with a garlicky butter glaze, paired with fluffy rice soaked in a rich, creamy sauce—this is comfort food with a gourmet twist. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or trying to impress guests with something elegant yet effortless, this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice delivers big flavor in just one pan.

Each bite of this dish bursts with buttery richness, aromatic herbs, and subtle spice, balanced by the fresh, natural sweetness of shrimp. The herbed rice soaks up the sauce beautifully, transforming it into a velvety, crave-worthy base. It’s indulgent yet surprisingly easy to whip up on a busy weeknight.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice

• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes and faster cleanup without compromising on flavor.
• Restaurant-Quality Taste: But made in the comfort of your home with everyday ingredients.
• Customizable Heat: Spice it up or keep it mellow—you’re in control.
• Ready in Under 30 Minutes: Perfect for weeknights or when you want a quick gourmet meal.
• Balanced Texture: Creamy, buttery sauce with tender shrimp and perfectly fluffy rice.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice, having the right tools makes the job easier and ensures better results:

• Non-Stick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for an even sear on the shrimp and to prevent the creamy sauce from sticking or burning.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps stir the sauce gently without scraping the pan surface.
• Garlic Press: Speeds up mincing garlic and extracts more flavor.
• Fine Grater: Ideal for zesting lemon or grating cheese finely into the sauce.
• Medium Saucepan with Lid: For cooking herb-infused rice to fluffy perfection.

With these tools on hand, you’ll breeze through prep and cooking with confidence.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice

• Shrimp (large, peeled & deveined) – The star protein; quick-cooking and naturally sweet.
• Butter (unsalted) – Creates the rich, velvety base for both the sauce and shrimp sear.
• Garlic (fresh, minced) – Brings pungent depth and aroma to the butter sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Adds luscious body to the garlic butter sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese (grated) – Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty richness.
• Lemon Juice & Zest – Balances the richness with citrus brightness.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped) – Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Optional kick of heat to brighten the creaminess.
• Cooked White Rice – Acts as a hearty canvas for the creamy shrimp.
• Dried Herbs (basil, thyme, or Italian blend) – Infuses the rice with savory fragrance.

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How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Melt a tablespoon of butter in your skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and sear for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Add more butter to the pan, then stir in minced garlic. Let it sizzle for 30 seconds until aromatic, but not browned.

Step 3: Make It Creamy

Pour in the heavy cream and simmer for a couple of minutes. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese and lemon zest. Let it thicken to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Return the Shrimp

Add the shrimp back into the sauce. Simmer gently for 2 more minutes. Squeeze in lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes (optional).

Step 5: Prepare the Herb Rice

While the shrimp cooks, toss cooked rice with a bit of melted butter, dried herbs, and chopped parsley in a saucepan. Cover and steam on low for 3 minutes.

Step 6: Plate & Garnish

Scoop herb rice into bowls, top with shrimp and a generous ladle of sauce. Finish with fresh parsley and more Parmesan if desired.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Rice

This dish is best served immediately, piping hot and fresh from the skillet. Pair it with a simple side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced dinner. Leftovers reheat well too!

To store: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long as it can become rubbery.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp turns opaque and pink when it’s done. Overcooking can make it rubbery, so keep a close eye.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s fully thawed and patted dry before cooking for the best sear.

Can I substitute the cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter twist, though the sauce may be thinner.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your Parmesan and other ingredients are gluten-free.

What kind of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice or jasmine rice work wonderfully. Brown rice is fine too, just heartier.

Can I make this spicy?

Definitely. Adjust the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

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Want More Shrimp and Seafood Ideas?

If you love this creamy shrimp bowl, you might also enjoy:

• Jumbo Shrimp in Butter Garlic Sauce for an ultra-rich bite.
• Crab and Shrimp Seafood Bisque if you’re craving creamy decadence.
• Shrimp and Avocado Bowls with Mango Salsa for something fresh and tropical.
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet for bold, smoky flavors.
• Jalapeno Heat Shrimp Soup if you’re looking to spice things up.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add more spice? Use coconut cream? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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