Easy Shrimp and Rice Recipes can be the perfect meal for anyone looking for something quick, tasty, and satisfying. One of the best options is Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp. This dish combines the lovely flavors of shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce. The garlic and butter blend perfectly to give you a delicious experience. Not only is it easy to make, but it also takes less than thirty minutes. This means you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home without spending all day in the kitchen. Whether you are cooking for yourself or serving guests, this recipe is sure to impress.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
There are many reasons to love Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp. It is incredibly simple and quick, making it great for busy weeknights. The shrimp cook fast, and the creamy sauce adds a rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds. You can also customize it to suit your taste. Add spice if you like heat or keep it mild for a family-friendly option.
Another great thing about this recipe is you can pair it with rice, pasta, or even a fresh salad. This flexibility means you can make this dish and feel satisfied without feeling heavy. The creamy texture and garlic flavor also make it comforting and indulgent.
HOW TO MAKE Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Fast
Making Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is easy when you follow these steps. With the right ingredients and a bit of time, you can create a flavorful dish that feels special. Here is how to do it.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
To make this recipe, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:
- A medium saucepan (for cooking rice)
- A large skillet (for cooking shrimp and sauce)
- A mixing spoon
- A measuring cup and spoons
- A knife and cutting board for chopping garlic and parsley
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tbsp butter
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water or chicken broth, salt to taste, and 1 tablespoon of butter. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it and let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered.
- Prepare the Shrimp: While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes. Remember to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor.
- Build the Cream Sauce: Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3–5 minutes.
- Finish the Dish: Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if you are using them). Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything to coat. Heat through for another minute or so.
- Serve: Finally, serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp over warm rice. You can garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
HOW TO SERVE Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is best served warm. You place a generous scoop of the shrimp and sauce over a bed of rice. You can also sprinkle some chopped parsley on top for color and freshness. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a side of steamed veggies or a simple green salad.
STORAGE & FREEZING: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate it and enjoy it within 2–3 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stove to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
You can also freeze this dish. Make sure to let it cool completely before putting it in a freezer-safe container. It can stay in the freezer for about 1–2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it gently.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs well with several side dishes. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans make for a healthy side.
- Fresh Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette works nicely.
- Garlic Bread: Serve with crusty garlic bread for a comforting meal.
- Pasta: If you want to change it up, try tossing the shrimp with your favorite pasta instead of rice.
VARIATIONS
There are many ways to customize Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- Add Heat: For spice lovers, add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
- Add Veggies: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
- Use Different Proteins: You do not have to stick to shrimp. You can try using chicken or scallops instead.
- Gluten-Free Option: If you are gluten-sensitive, make sure to use gluten-free broth and pasta if you choose to go that way.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You could use half-and-half or a cream substitute, but it may alter the creaminess of the sauce.
3. Is this recipe spicy?
This recipe can be spicy based on how much red pepper flakes you choose to use. You can omit it for a milder taste.
4. How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp turn pink and opaque when they are fully cooked. They should also curl into a loose “C” shape.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
You can prepare some parts of this dish ahead of time. Here are some tips:
- Prepare the Sauce: You can make the creamy sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for a day. Reheat it on low heat before adding freshly cooked shrimp.
- Cook the Rice: You can make the rice a few hours ahead and keep it warm until ready to serve.
- Vegetable Prep: If you are adding vegetables, chop them ahead of time to save time when you start cooking.
With these tips, you can enjoy Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp without the stress of last-minute cooking. Just follow the steps, and your meal will be ready in no time! Enjoy your delicious journey into the world of shrimp and rice.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of rice, 2 cups of water or chicken broth, salt to taste, and 1 tablespoon of butter.
- Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it and let it simmer for about 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Once done, remove it from the heat and let it sit, covered.
- While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and 1 teaspoon of paprika.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Add 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic.
- Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using). Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss everything to coat.
- Heat through for another minute or so.
- Serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp over warm rice. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.