Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp over Rice

A quick note before we begin: this article starts with a short welcome paragraph and then moves into the required sections.

introduction

This creamy garlic butter shrimp served over fluffy rice is a weeknight lifesaver — fast to make, rich in flavor, and effortlessly comforting. If you want a restaurant-style shrimp dish without the fuss, this recipe delivers. For another simple treat to pair with family meals or gatherings, check out this easy peanut butter blossoms recipe which shows how few ingredients can yield big results.

why make this recipe

• Speed: Ready in about 25–30 minutes, including rice.
• Comforting creaminess: A buttery garlic cream sauce with Parmesan makes the shrimp feel indulgent.
• Versatile: Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Beginner-friendly: Minimal steps and pantry-friendly ingredients.

how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

This recipe balances quick pan-searing with a simple cream sauce so the shrimp stay tender and the sauce stays silky. Start the rice first, then cook the shrimp quickly in a hot skillet, and finish the sauce in the same pan to capture all the flavor.

Ingredients :

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined, Salt and pepper, to taste, 2 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 5 cloves garlic, minced, 1 tsp paprika, ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional), ½ cup chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tbsp lemon juice, 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish), 1 cup long-grain white rice, 2 cups water or chicken broth, Salt, to taste, 1 tbsp butter

Directions :

In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water or broth, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let sit covered., Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika., Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside., In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant., Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom., Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer until sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes., Add lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), and return shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat and heat through., Serve creamy garlic butter shrimp over warm rice. Garnish with parsley if desired.

how to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Spoon the shrimp and sauce over a mound of warm long-grain rice. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if you like brightness. This dish also pairs well with steamed vegetables, a simple green salad, or crusty bread to mop up the sauce.

how to store Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

Store cooled shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat (add a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce) to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Rice can be stored separately for up to 4 days.

tips to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

• Do not overcook the shrimp: Remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Use hot pan and single layer: Searing shrimp in a single layer ensures a quick, even cook and better texture.
• Taste and adjust: Parmesan adds saltiness — adjust seasoning at the end after the cheese melts in.
• Swap dairy: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cornstarch to thicken (sauce will be less rich).
• Make ahead: Cook the rice and keep chilled; finish shrimp and sauce when ready to serve.

variation (if any)

• Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for more heat.
• Herb-forward: Stir in chopped basil or tarragon for a fresh twist.
• Tomato cream: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste or a splash of marinara for a rosé-style sauce.
• Pasta: Serve over fettuccine or linguine instead of rice for a creamy shrimp pasta.

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes — thaw completely, pat dry, and follow the same cooking steps. Removing excess water helps achieve a good sear.

Q: Can I make this dairy-free?
A: Use a dairy-free butter and a full-fat coconut milk or a cream-style nut milk, and skip the Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.

Q: How can I thicken the sauce more?
A: Simmer a little longer, or whisk ½–1 tsp cornstarch with cold water and stir in, cooking until thickened.

Conclusion

For another take on creamy garlic shrimp or inspiration for similar weeknight meals, you can consult this detailed Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Ahead of Thyme recipe which complements the techniques used here.