Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a rich, indulgent, and easy-to-make meal. Featuring succulent shrimp in a creamy garlic butter sauce over fragrant herb-infused rice, this dish offers a perfect balance of richness and freshness. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
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
Instructions
Cook Herb Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine broth, rice, salt, and butter. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes (or according to rice package instructions) until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in parsley and lemon zest. Keep covered to keep warm.
Season Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper on both sides for better searing.
Sear Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until just pink and slightly cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside, tented with foil.
Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower heat to medium and 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 cheese and whisk until melted, thickening the sauce (about 2 minutes).
Finish Shrimp: Return shrimp and any juices to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce. Turn off the heat and stir in lemon juice and extra parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more lemon.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide herb rice among bowls, then top with creamy garlic butter shrimp and sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately
Notes
Rice Options: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier or gluten-free option.
Seafood Alternatives: Swap shrimp for jumbo shrimp, scallops, or even chicken strips.
Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and butter.
Herb Variations: Dill, cilantro, or thyme can be used to customize the flavor of the rice.
Heat Level: Adjust red pepper flakes or add hot sauce to increase the spice level.
