Get ready for a tasty dish with this creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl! Juicy shrimp cooked in a luscious garlic butter sauce sit on a bed of fragrant herb rice—yum!
I love how the shrimp pops with flavor, making this bowl a cozy dinner that’s easy to whip up. Pair it with a side salad for a fresh touch, and you’re all set! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp give the best texture, but feel free to use medium shrimp or even scallops. Just remember, cooking time may vary slightly!
Butter: Unsalted butter is my favorite for controlling the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try using a light olive oil instead of butter.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free option. Both will change the flavor slightly, but still yummy!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated always tastes best! You can swap for Pecorino Romano if you want a stronger flavor, or use nutritional yeast for a vegan twist.
Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice work great, but quinoa or cauliflower rice is a healthier alternative if you’re cutting carbs.
How Do I Get Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
The secret to perfectly cooked shrimp is timing and temperature. Overcooking makes shrimp rubbery, so keep an eye on them! Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp to sear them quickly.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Flip only when they turn pink on one side.
- Remove the shrimp as soon as they are opaque and curled slightly, about 3-4 minutes total.
With a little attention, you’ll have perfectly juicy shrimp every time!
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl With Herb Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Shrimp:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or mixed herbs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For The Herb Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
For The Garnish:
- Fresh thyme or dill for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—15 minutes to cook the rice, and another 15 for the shrimp and sauce. It’s perfect for a swift and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice:
Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions. Once it’s cooked, stir in 2 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh parsley and a little salt to taste. Keep the rice warm while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Sear the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbly, add the shrimp in a single layer. Let them cook for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Then, carefully flip each shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they are fully opaque and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3. Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Next, pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Whisk in the Parmesan cheese and dried herbs. Season generously with salt and pepper and let the sauce thicken slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing gently in the creamy garlic butter sauce to coat them nicely. If you like a bit of brightness, add the lemon juice at this stage.
5. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, spoon the creamy garlic butter shrimp generously over the herb rice in bowls. Finish with extra chopped parsley and fresh herbs, like thyme or dill, if you’re using them. Enjoy every delicious bite!
This rich and creamy shrimp bowl is sure to become a favorite in your dinner rotation. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight, or for a quick method, put them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water until thawed.
How Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a nut milk that you prefer, and use dairy-free cheese or simply omit the cheese for still-delicious creaminess!
What Can I Serve with This Dish?
This creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl pairs beautifully with a side of steamed vegetables or a crisp salad. For a heartier meal, garlic bread is also a great choice!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, but be cautious not to overheat the shrimp, as they can become rubbery.
