If you’re looking for a dish that feels luxurious yet takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is exactly what you need. Juicy shrimp are seared to perfection, then bathed in a rich garlic butter sauce with cream, Parmesan, and fresh herbs. Served over fluffy rice, this recipe delivers comfort and indulgence without requiring hours in the kitchen.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, date nights, or even special occasions when you want to impress with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll go over the step-by-step recipe, share variations, and give tips to make sure your shrimp turns out perfectly every time.

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Why This Recipe Works

Shrimp is naturally tender and cooks quickly, making it an ideal protein for fast but flavorful meals. When paired with garlic butter and cream, the result is a sauce that feels decadent yet balanced. Parmesan cheese adds nuttiness, while fresh parsley brightens everything up.

The best part? This dish uses simple pantry staples—olive oil, garlic, butter, and cream—that come together in just 15 minutes. When spooned over jasmine or basmati rice, the sauce soaks in beautifully, making every bite irresistible.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 15 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories: Approximately 420 kcal per serving

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Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

For the Creamy Garlic Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 5 garlic cloves, minced

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Season the Shrimp

In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using). This ensures every bite is flavorful and adds a slight kick of spice.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until golden and opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Step 4: Create the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in the grated Parmesan, letting it melt into the sauce for a velvety finish.

Step 5: Return the Shrimp

Add the shrimp back into the skillet, tossing to coat them evenly in the sauce. Cook for another minute to ensure everything is heated through. Finish by sprinkling fresh parsley over the top.

Step 6: Serve

Spoon the creamy shrimp and sauce over bowls of jasmine or basmati rice. The rice will soak up the sauce, creating a complete and satisfying meal.

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Notes and Variations

• Add Citrus Brightness: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving balances the richness of the sauce with acidity.

• Make it Spicier: Double the chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you love bold flavors.

• Protein Swaps: This recipe also works beautifully with chicken breast strips or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

• Low-Carb Option: Instead of rice, serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.

• Cheese Options: Try Pecorino Romano instead of Parmesan for a sharper, saltier kick.

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Cooking Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly—just 1–2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Use Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder can work in a pinch, freshly minced garlic gives the sauce its signature bold flavor.

3. Control the Heat: Keep the skillet at medium heat when making the cream sauce. Too high, and the sauce may separate; too low, and it won’t thicken properly.

4. Rice Matters: Jasmine or basmati rice works best because of their light, fluffy texture. Avoid sticky rice, as it may make the dish too heavy.

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Nutritional Benefits

Despite its indulgent flavor, this dish provides a balance of nutrients. Shrimp is a lean source of protein, low in calories, and rich in selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids. Garlic and parsley add antioxidants and immune-boosting benefits, while olive oil and butter contribute healthy fats in moderation. Paired with rice, this dish provides a well-rounded balance of carbs, protein, and fat.

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Perfect Pairings

To make your meal even more complete, consider pairing this dish with:

• Vegetables: Steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or sautéed spinach complement the richness of the sauce.

• Bread: A slice of crusty baguette or garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

• Wine: Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to cut through the richness.

• Light Dessert: End the meal with fruit sorbet or a citrus tart to keep things refreshing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to prevent excess water in the skillet.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
The shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat gently before adding freshly cooked shrimp.

3. Can I substitute milk for cream?
For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

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Final Thoughts

Next-Level Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is surprisingly simple to make. With its rich sauce, juicy shrimp, and perfectly paired rice, it’s a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors right into your kitchen.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe checks all the boxes. By following the tips and variations above, you can make it your own while still keeping the core flavors intact.

Cooking should be both enjoyable and rewarding, and this recipe proves that a few high-quality ingredients can transform into something unforgettable in less than 30 minutes.