When you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that comes together quickly, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is exactly what you need. This dish combines juicy, seared shrimp drenched in rich garlic butter, nestled over fluffy herb rice that’s packed with flavor. It’s a weeknight wonder that feels like a gourmet experience.

Perfect for seafood lovers, this bowl brings a delightful mix of buttery, garlicky goodness with a hint of citrus and herbs. Whether you’re serving it up for a quiet night in or impressing guests with minimal effort, this shrimp bowl hits all the right notes—comfort, speed, and elegance.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe

Quick and easy: This dish is ready in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: Garlic, butter, lemon, and herbs make every bite satisfying.
Balanced meal: Get your protein and carbs all in one bowl.
Impressive presentation: Looks as good as it tastes.
Flexible: Great with add-ons like avocado, veggies, or a spicy drizzle.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For this recipe, medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp work best. Fresh or frozen both work great—just be sure to thaw the frozen shrimp properly. Look for shrimp that are raw (not pre-cooked) so they soak up all the buttery garlic flavors while cooking. Tail-on shrimp give a nice visual appeal, but you can go tail-off for easier eating.

Ingredients for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

Each ingredient in this dish plays a vital role in delivering bold flavor and balanced texture.

Shrimp: The star of the dish, providing juicy, tender bites that pair beautifully with garlic butter.
Butter: Adds richness and enhances the garlic’s aroma while giving the shrimp a golden sear.
Garlic: Infuses the butter and shrimp with deep, savory notes.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavor and balances the richness of the butter.
Parsley: Fresh and herby, it adds color and vibrancy.
Cooked Rice: A hearty base that soaks up all the garlicky butter sauce.
Fresh Herbs (like dill, cilantro, or basil): Mixed into the rice for layers of flavor and freshness.
Olive Oil: Used to cook the rice and herbs for added depth.
Salt & Pepper: Essential seasoning to tie all the flavors together.

How To Make the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

Step 1: Cook the Herb Rice

In a saucepan, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Stir in your cooked rice along with chopped fresh herbs like dill, cilantro, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper, and stir until the rice is warm and infused with the herb flavors.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and cooked through. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and stir to coat.

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

Spoon the herb rice into bowls, then top with the hot garlic butter shrimp. Drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan over the top. Garnish with more herbs or a lemon wedge if desired.

How to Serve and Store This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe

This recipe yields enough to comfortably feed 4 people. It’s ideal for a cozy dinner or as part of a weekend meal prep. Serve immediately for the best experience, when the shrimp are hot and juicy and the herb rice is fragrant and fluffy.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a small splash of water or butter to revive the rice and shrimp without drying them out.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe?

Avocado Slices

Creamy avocado complements the citrus and herbs perfectly, adding a cool and buttery contrast.

Steamed Asparagus

Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh crunch and soaks up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully.

Garlic Bread

Why not double down on garlic? A side of crispy garlic bread is ideal for soaking up leftover sauce.

Mixed Greens Salad

A light, lemony salad balances the richness of the shrimp and butter.

Pickled Red Onions

For a tangy bite that cuts through the richness, pickled onions are a fun and colorful addition.

Grilled Zucchini

Charred zucchini brings a smoky note that pairs well with the herb rice.

A Glass of White Wine

A chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly! Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking and pat them dry to ensure a good sear.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cook fast—2 to 3 minutes per side is enough. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done.

Can I use a different herb mix for the rice?

Absolutely! Basil, mint, dill, parsley, or even scallions all work great. Mix and match to suit your taste.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. But if you love heat, add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha to kick things up.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or olive oil.

Save This Pin For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try a different herb combo? Maybe added a spicy twist?

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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Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a no-fuss, flavor-packed meal that delivers comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a reliable recipe that’s both elegant and easy. Give it a try and bring restaurant-quality flavor to your own kitchen.

The Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

Author: Tanya Rivers
Total Time: 25
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Need a quick and flavor-loaded dinner? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a winner for weeknight dinners or weekend indulgence. Juicy shrimp cooked in rich garlic butter over a bed of herbaceous rice brings comfort and gourmet flavor in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re looking for easy dinner ideas, healthy snacks, or fast food ideas, this easy recipe has it all!