Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish offers the perfect combination of flavors and textures: tender shrimp coated in a creamy garlic butter sauce with a hint of heat, all sitting atop a bed of herb-seasoned rice. The vibrant parsley and lemon zest in the rice provide a fresh contrast to the richness of the shrimp, making each bite feel light yet satisfying. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy nights when you crave a gourmet meal without the hours of preparation. It’s versatile, delicious, and sure to please both adults and kids alike.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Herb Rice

2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water (optional: half broth, half water)

1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine for aroma)

½ teaspoon salt

1 tablespoon unsalted butter (optional)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

1 teaspoon lemon zest (from 1 lemon)

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on if preferred)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

5–6 garlic cloves, finely minced

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for mild heat)

½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)

To Serve

Lemon wedges

Extra parsley

Drizzle of olive oil (optional)

Crusty bread or steamed vegetables (optional sides)

Directions

Cook Herb Rice
Place broth, rice, salt, and butter in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes (or according to rice package) until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, then stir in parsley and lemon zest. Cover to keep warm.

Season Shrimp
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper evenly on both sides to ensure better searing.

Sear Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 2 minutes per side until just pink and slightly cooked through. Transfer to a plate and tent with foil.

Build Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan, whisk until melted, and the sauce thickens slightly (about 2 minutes).

Finish Shrimp
Return shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce. Turn off the heat and add lemon juice and extra parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon.

Build the Bowls
Divide herb rice evenly among bowls. Ladle creamy garlic butter shrimp on top and spoon extra sauce over rice. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Rice Options: Swap in brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier option or to cater to dietary needs.

Seafood Alternatives: Swap the shrimp for jumbo shrimp, scallops, or even chicken strips for a different twist on this dish.

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream or cashew cream in place of heavy cream and butter for a dairy-free version.

Herbs: Experiment with dill, cilantro, or thyme for a unique flavor profile.

Heat Level: Adjust the red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to make the dish as spicy as you like.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the rice and shrimp separate to preserve the texture.

Reheating: Reheat the shrimp over low heat to prevent overcooking, and fluff the rice gently when reheating. If the rice has dried out, add a splash of water or broth while reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely in the fridge or quickly in a bowl of cold water, and pat them dry before cooking.

Is heavy cream necessary for the sauce?

No, you can substitute half-and-half for a lighter sauce or use coconut cream for a dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, just ensure that the chicken broth and Parmesan cheese you use are also gluten-free.

What if my sauce is too thin?

To thicken the sauce, you can simmer it a bit longer or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch slurry (1 part water to 1 part cornstarch).

What should I do if the sauce curdles?

To avoid curdling, cook the sauce on low heat and add the cream gradually. Stir constantly to incorporate it smoothly.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to increase the spice level to your liking.

Can I use other types of rice?

Yes, you can use any type of rice you prefer, such as jasmine, basmati, or brown rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?

To avoid overcooking, cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and curl slightly. They will continue cooking in the sauce once added.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the rice and shrimp in advance, then cook the sauce and combine everything when ready to serve. The rice can also be stored for 1–2 days and reheated.

Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is an irresistible combination of rich, flavorful shrimp and light, fragrant rice. With its balance of creamy richness and fresh citrus and herbs, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Quick to prepare, versatile, and packed with flavor, it’s sure to become a favorite in your cooking repertoire

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