Tanya Rivers
Creamy garlic butter shrimp paired with fluffy herb rice is a flavor-packed dinner that feels indulgent yet incredibly easy to make. The juicy shrimp are seared to golden perfection, then coated in a silky garlic butter sauce that clings to every bite. Add a side of fragrant herbed rice, fresh tomatoes, and a slice of lemon, and you’ve got a satisfying meal in under 30 minutes.
This dish combines elegance with comfort, making it perfect for both a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. It’s vibrant, full of fresh flavors, and easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen. Shrimp lovers, this one is going straight to the top of your favorites list!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
This recipe delivers on every front: flavor, speed, and presentation. The shrimp are cooked in a garlic butter sauce that’s both rich and slightly tangy thanks to a splash of lemon juice. The herb rice balances the boldness with its light, fluffy texture and fresh green notes.
Perfect for busy days or nights when you want something special without the fuss, this dish requires minimal prep and gives maximum payoff.
What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?
For best results, use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp—tail-on or off is up to you. Fresh or frozen both work well; just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp thoroughly before cooking. If you can find wild-caught shrimp, go for it—they tend to have a sweeter, more pronounced flavor compared to farmed ones.
Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they can turn rubbery during reheating. Raw shrimp gives you control over the flavor and texture during the cooking process.
Ingredients for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
Every ingredient in this dish brings depth and flavor to the final result. Here’s what you’ll need and why it’s essential:
- Shrimp: The star of the bowl! Choose large shrimp for the best bite and texture.
- Butter: Key for creating that rich and velvety garlic sauce.
- Garlic: The heart of the flavor—minced garlic infuses the sauce with warm, savory goodness.
- Heavy Cream: Adds the creamy body to the sauce that makes it so indulgent.
- Paprika & Chili Flakes: These give the shrimp a smoky kick and gentle heat.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter and cream.
- Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life.
- Cooked Basmati Rice: Light and fluffy, it serves as the perfect base to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Fresh Herbs (Parsley & Mint): Chopped and mixed into the rice, these herbs add freshness and aroma.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and vibrant, they complement the shrimp beautifully.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the shrimp to golden perfection.
How To Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and slightly golden. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds), then stir in heavy cream and a squeeze of lemon juice. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Step 3: Return the Shrimp to the Sauce
Add the cooked shrimp back into the pan, spoon the sauce over them, and cook for another 2 minutes until everything is well coated and heated through.
Step 4: Prepare the Herb Rice
Mix chopped parsley and mint into freshly cooked basmati rice. Add a pinch of salt and a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Spoon a generous serving of herb rice into a bowl, top with creamy garlic butter shrimp, halved cherry tomatoes, and a lemon wedge. Sprinkle with extra herbs if desired.
How to Serve and Store This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
This recipe serves 2 to 3 people, depending on portion size and sides. For presentation, use shallow bowls and arrange the shrimp neatly over the rice with fresh tomatoes and a lemon wedge on the side. Sprinkle extra herbs on top for a pop of color and freshness.
To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving the shrimp too long to prevent rubbery texture.
What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice?
Grilled Vegetables
Lightly charred zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a smoky balance to the creamy shrimp.
Garlic Bread
Perfect for sopping up every last drop of that luscious garlic butter sauce.
Cucumber Salad
A crisp, refreshing cucumber salad with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Avocado Slices
Creamy avocado pairs beautifully with shrimp and adds healthy fats.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Their natural sweetness complements the savory shrimp and herb rice.
Sauteed Spinach
Quick-cooked spinach with garlic adds a light, earthy green side.
Mango Salsa
Add a tropical twist with a fresh mango salsa—sweet, tangy, and colorful.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid extra moisture that can prevent proper searing.
Is there a dairy-free alternative?
You can substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use vegan butter. The flavor will change slightly but still be delicious and creamy.
Can I use other types of rice?
Absolutely! Jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice work well. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
What herbs can I substitute?
If you don’t have parsley or mint, try cilantro, basil, or even dill for a different twist.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level is mild, thanks to the paprika and chili flakes. You can reduce or increase the spice to your preference.
Save This Pin For Later
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add more herbs or swap the rice? Maybe tried it with pasta instead?
I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too, let’s help each other cook smarter.
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Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp chili flakes
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked basmati rice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh mint, chopped
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 lemon, sliced for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and chili flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and golden. Remove from pan.
- In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and lemon juice. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return shrimp to the skillet. Coat in sauce and cook for 2 more minutes.
- In a bowl, mix cooked rice with parsley, mint, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of olive oil.
- Assemble bowls with herb rice, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon wedge.