Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a weeknight miracle, a dish that comes together faster than you can say “pronto!” It’s one of those recipes that reminds us of Sunday suppers with family, even though shrimp wasn’t exactly a staple back in the old country. But you know what? Nonna always said to embrace the good things wherever you find them. This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a testament to that spirit: simple, satisfying, and full of love.
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This recipe came to us from a dear friend who had a knack for whipping up incredible flavors with minimal effort. It's become a beloved dish in our families because it’s delicious, comforting, and ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen. So grab your apron, and let's get cooking!
Why You Will Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe is pure comfort food, plain and simple. What's not to love about plump, juicy shrimp swimming in a luscious, garlicky, buttery sauce? It’s quick, easy, and intensely flavorful. It feels like a restaurant meal, but you can whip it up in your own kitchen in a flash.
We especially love that it's a one pan wonder. Less cleanup when you are done cooking always makes for a happy Nonna. Plus, the rice soaks up all that amazing sauce, making every bite a burst of flavor.
It doesn’t get much better than that, does it?
Ingredients Needed for This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Here's what you'll need to create this delightful Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth!)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooked rice, for serving (about 3 cups cooked)
How to Make This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Ready to transform these ingredients into a delicious meal? Let's get started!
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Pro Tip: Don't overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear! Work in batches if necessary.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- If using, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. This adds a lovely depth of flavor that will elevate your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
- Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice immediately over a bed of cooked rice. Spoon extra sauce over the rice for maximum flavor. Mangia!
How to Serve This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a star on its own, but it's even better with some thoughtful sides and garnishes. Here are some ideas for elevating your dining experience:
- Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or even quinoa for a healthier twist.
- Serve with a side of steamed broccoli, asparagus, or green beans for a pop of color and added nutrients.
- Garnish with extra fresh parsley, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a lemon wedge for brightness.
- A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette is a refreshing complement to the richness of the dish.
- Consider serving your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice alongside a piece of crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. You might also enjoy this dish with our Garlic Butter Chicken Recipe.
How to Store This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Storing your leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice properly will ensure it stays delicious for another meal. Here's how:
- Refrigeration: Store the shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This prevents the rice from becoming too soggy.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing, and the shrimp can become rubbery. However, if you must freeze it, use freezer safe bags ensuring that you get out as much air as possible.
- Reheating: Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over medium low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Avoid overheating, as this can make the shrimp tough. Reheat the rice separately in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out. You might also want to try our Baked Lemon Garlic Butter Salmon.
Tips to Make This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Want to guarantee success with your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice? Here are a few of Nonna's secrets:
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp are rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor. Garlic powder just doesn't compare.
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking. Some people love a lot of garlic, while others prefer a more subtle flavor.
- If you don't have white wine, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth.
- For a richer sauce, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
- If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce. You might also like our One Pan Honey Butter Garlic Chicken Rice.
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Helpful Notes for This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Here are a few extra details to ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice turns out perfectly:
- Shrimp Size: We recommend using large shrimp (26/30 count) for this recipe, but you can use any size you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- White Wine: A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works best in this recipe.
- Parmesan Cheese: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture. Pre shredded cheese often contains cellulose which can prevent it from melting smoothly.
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to the dish. If you don't have fresh parsley, you can use dried parsley, but use about half the amount.
Variation of This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe
Want to put your own spin on this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe? Here are a few ideas:
- Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to the sauce, along with extra lemon zest.
- Creamy Tomato Shrimp: Add a can of diced tomatoes to the sauce for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Vegetable Shrimp: Add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, to the skillet along with the garlic.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice from scratch?
The recipe is simple! You’ll sauté shrimp with garlic and butter, then create a creamy sauce by adding cream and seasonings. Serve it over rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
What kind of shrimp is best for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?
Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe, as they hold their shape well during cooking. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
Can I use a different type of rice with Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Absolutely! While white rice is a classic pairing, you can also use brown rice, jasmine rice, or even quinoa for a healthier alternative. Adjust cooking times as needed based on the grain you choose.
What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?
This dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as steamed broccoli, asparagus, or a simple salad. Some crusty bread for dipping in the creamy sauce is also a great addition.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is the perfect dish for any night of the week. It's quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. We hope this recipe brings a little bit of Nonna's love to your table. Let us know in the comments below if you try this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe – we always love to hear your feedback!
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice: The BEST Easy Recipe
Quick and easy creamy garlic butter shrimp with rice recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, ready in under 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian American
Nutrition:
Protein: 30g
Carbs: 30g
Fat: 25g
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined\n4 tablespoons butter, divided\n4 cloves garlic, minced\n1/4 cup dry white wine (optional)\n1/2 cup heavy cream\n1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese\n2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley\n1 tablespoon lemon juice\nSalt and black pepper to taste\n3 cups cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.\nIn the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.\nIf using, pour in the white wine to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Let the wine simmer for 1 to 2 minutes.\nPour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.\nAdd the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy garlic butter sauce.\nStir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.\nServe immediately over a bed of cooked rice.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of garlic to your liking. Some people love a lot of garlic, while others prefer a more subtle flavor. For a richer sauce, use whole milk instead of heavy cream.
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