Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

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This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a flavor-packed, comforting dish that marries juicy, perfectly seared shrimp with fluffy herb-infused rice and a rich, velvety garlic butter sauce. Each bite delivers a balance of buttery creaminess, the fresh bite of parsley, and the natural sweetness of shrimp, making it an irresistible meal for both weeknights and special occasions.

The rice serves as the perfect base, soaking up every drop of the luscious sauce while the herbs bring a fresh lift to the dish. It’s a beautiful combination of simplicity and indulgence, ideal for anyone craving a restaurant-worthy dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

This dish is a dream come true for seafood lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike. The garlic butter sauce is silky and decadent, yet quick to make, turning simple shrimp into something extraordinary. It’s versatile enough for a casual family meal or an impressive dinner for guests, and it comes together in less than 30 minutes. Plus, the herb rice adds a fragrant and refreshing twist, making the whole bowl a satisfying and complete meal.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice, having the right tools can make all the difference.

• Non-stick skillet or sauté pan – Essential for evenly searing shrimp without them sticking, ensuring they stay juicy and tender.
• Medium saucepan with lid – Perfect for cooking rice evenly and allowing the herbs to infuse fully.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Gentle on cookware surfaces and great for stirring sauces without scratching.
• Sharp chef’s knife – For finely chopping herbs and prepping garlic quickly and cleanly.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Accuracy matters here, especially for sauce ratios.
• Mixing bowl – Handy for tossing shrimp with seasoning before cooking.

Each tool has its role: the skillet gives shrimp a golden sear, the saucepan ensures fluffy rice, and a sharp knife keeps prep efficient and enjoyable.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat shrimp dry before cooking – This helps achieve a good sear and prevents excess moisture from thinning the sauce.
• Cook rice with broth instead of water – Adds depth of flavor and makes the herb rice more aromatic.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – They only need about 2–3 minutes per side; overcooking makes them rubbery.
• Use fresh garlic and herbs – Fresh ingredients intensify flavor and freshness in every bite.
• Add cream last – To prevent curdling, lower the heat before adding the cream to the sauce.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

For the Herb Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Shrimp:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried Italian herbs
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup chicken broth
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Step 1 – Cook the Herb Rice

In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, butter, thyme, and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in the fresh parsley, and set aside.

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Step 2 – Season and Sear the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a mixing bowl, toss them with olive oil, butter, minced garlic, paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and sear the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and slightly golden. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

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Step 3 – Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and crushed red pepper flakes, then season with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

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Step 4 – Combine and Serve

Add the shrimp back into the skillet and spoon the sauce over them to coat. Serve the shrimp and sauce over the herb rice. Garnish with extra chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

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Notes

• You can use frozen shrimp for this recipe—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
• For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
• Fresh herbs elevate the flavor, but dried herbs can be used in smaller amounts if fresh ones aren’t available.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the shrimp – They become tough and rubbery if left in the pan too long. Watch closely and remove them as soon as they turn pink.
• Boiling the cream – High heat can cause the sauce to split; keep it at a gentle simmer.
• Skipping the broth in rice – Using plain water instead of broth can make the rice bland; broth adds depth and flavor.
• Adding cream too early – If the pan is too hot when cream is added, it can curdle and lose its silky texture.
• Neglecting to season in layers – Season the rice, shrimp, and sauce individually for the best overall flavor.

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What to Serve With Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

8 Recommendations

1. Garlic bread – Perfect for mopping up every last drop of that creamy sauce.
2. Steamed asparagus – Adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich shrimp.
3. Roasted Brussels sprouts – Their caramelized flavor pairs beautifully with garlic butter.
4. Simple green salad – Light and refreshing, balancing the richness of the dish.
5. Grilled zucchini – Adds a smoky note that complements the shrimp.
6. Lemon wedges – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens the flavors instantly.
7. Chilled white wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio cuts through the creaminess.
8. Crusty baguette slices – Another excellent option for sauce-dipping bliss.

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Storage Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp and rice gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving for too long, as it can overcook the shrimp and make them rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but still reheats well if handled gently.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 27g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Sodium: 710mg
• Sugar: 1g

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them to the sauce at the very end just to warm through, as they’re already cooked and can become rubbery quickly.

2. Can I swap the rice for another base?

Absolutely—try quinoa, couscous, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

3. Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative, and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a rich texture.

4. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the rice and sauce ahead, but cook the shrimp fresh for the best texture and flavor.

5. How can I make the sauce thicker?

Simmer it a few extra minutes on low heat or whisk in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with a tablespoon of water.

6. What size shrimp works best?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe because they stay juicy and have a satisfying bite.

7. Can I make it spicy?

Yes—add extra crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

8. Can I freeze leftovers?

It’s not recommended because the cream sauce can separate when thawed, and the shrimp may lose their texture.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is the perfect blend of indulgence and comfort, ready in under 30 minutes. Juicy shrimp, fragrant herb rice, and a silky garlic butter sauce come together for a dish that feels gourmet yet is easy enough for a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the fuss.

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