Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

If you’re looking for a quick, satisfying, and restaurant-quality dinner, this creamy garlic butter shrimp with rice is the perfect recipe. It combines tender shrimp, a rich and velvety garlic cream sauce, and fluffy rice for a meal that feels indulgent but takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.

Prep & Cook Time

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: ~520 kcal

Ingredients

500 g (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter, unsalted
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
200 ml (¾ cup) heavy cream
50 g (½ cup) Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped
300 g (2 cups) cooked white rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the shrimp

If using frozen shrimp, thaw in cold water for 15 minutes.
Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
Devein the shrimp if not already cleaned.

2. Make the garlic butter base

Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn).

3. Cook the shrimp

Place the shrimp in the skillet.
Season with salt and black pepper.
Cook 2–3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly golden.
Transfer to a plate and set aside.

4. Prepare the creamy sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Let simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
(Tip: If too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth.)

5. Combine shrimp and sauce

Return the shrimp to the skillet.
Toss gently in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of flavor.

6. Serve

Place a portion of cooked rice on each plate.
Spoon the creamy shrimp and sauce over the rice.
Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with garlic bread to soak up the sauce.
Pair with a simple green salad for freshness.
For a fancier dinner, add roasted vegetables on the side.

Ingredient Substitutions

Shrimp: Use scallops, salmon chunks, or chicken strips.
Heavy cream: Swap with half-and-half or coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan cheese: Try Pecorino Romano, mozzarella, or cheddar.
Rice: Replace with brown rice, couscous, or quinoa for a healthier twist.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk or cream.
Not recommended for freezing (cream sauce may separate).

Pro Tips for the Best Flavor

Don’t overcook the shrimp – they become rubbery fast.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum creaminess.
Add a pinch of paprika or chili flakes for a little heat.
Fresh parsley or basil elevates the dish with freshness.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

Calories: 520 kcal
Protein: 30 g
Fat: 28 g
Carbs: 35 g
Fiber: 2 g