Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Succulent shrimp simmered in a rich garlic butter cream sauce, served over fluffy, herb-infused rice. A restaurant-worthy meal in under 30 minutes!

 Difficulty: Easy

Prep Time: 10 minutes

 Cook Time: 15–20 minutes

 Total Time: 25–30 minutes

 Serves: 4

 Recipe Overview

Looking for a quick yet elegant dinner that feels indulgent but comes together with pantry staples? This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is just the thing. Juicy shrimp are seared and coated in a luscious garlic butter cream sauce, then spooned over warm, fluffy rice seasoned with herbs and lemon.

It’s a one-bowl meal that’s packed with flavor, perfect for weeknights, date nights, or anytime you want something fast but fancy.

 Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

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

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (fresh)

• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Herb Rice:

• 1 cup long grain white rice

• 2 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 1 teaspoon dried herbs (basil, thyme, parsley, or Italian blend)

• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Herb Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, water (or broth), butter, salt, and herbs.

2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until rice is fluffy and liquid is absorbed.

3. Remove from heat and stir in lemon zest. Cover and keep warm.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.

2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat.

3. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.

2. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.

3. Stir in red pepper flakes (if using), then pour in heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently.

4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Cook until sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.

5. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Heat for another minute to warm through. Taste and adjust salt/pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

Spoon herb rice into individual serving bowls. Top with creamy garlic shrimp and a drizzle of the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.

Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.

 Storage & Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Gently reheat shrimp and sauce in a pan over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

Note: Shrimp can become rubbery if overcooked — reheat gently!

 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – 1/4 of recipe)

Nutrition is approximate and varies by exact ingredients used.