Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Creamy Herb Rice

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I’ve always had a soft spot for meals that are both indulgent and effortless, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice is one of those dishes I keep coming back to. Whether I’m cooking for myself on a quiet weeknight or impressing guests with minimal effort, this bowl never fails to deliver. There’s something about juicy shrimp coated in garlic butter, paired with rich, herby rice that feels both comforting and luxurious. It’s coastal flavor with a touch of comfort food soul.

I created this dish while on vacation, craving something simple yet satisfying after a long beach day. With just a handful of fresh ingredients, I ended up with a warm bowl of garlicky, buttery shrimp nestled over rice infused with herbs and cream. It was so good I had to jot it down immediately. The best part? It’s quick enough for a weeknight but feels special enough for a weekend dinner party.

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

This dish hits the sweet spot between bold flavor and easy prep. The shrimp sear quickly in garlicky butter, taking on golden edges and rich flavor in minutes. The rice—already a comfort food classic—gets elevated with creamy texture and fragrant herbs. It’s a full meal in one bowl, balanced with protein, carbs, and flavor-packed fats.

What makes it extra lovable? It’s versatile. You can dress it up with fresh lemon or tone it down with a milder herb blend. Plus, it’s gluten-free and naturally low in sugar, making it friendly for a variety of diets. One bite and you’ll see why this dish deserves a regular spot on your menu.

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What Type of Shrimp Should I Use for Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl?

For this recipe, I prefer using large or jumbo shrimp—ideally 16/20 count per pound—for the perfect bite and visual appeal. Look for peeled and deveined shrimp with tails on or off depending on your presentation preference. Fresh is great, but frozen shrimp works beautifully too. Just make sure to thaw them properly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Avoid using pre-cooked shrimp here. Since the flavor of this dish really builds in the pan with butter, garlic, and seasoning, raw shrimp is essential for that caramelized, buttery crust.

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Options for Substitutions

There are plenty of ways to adapt this bowl to suit your taste or pantry:

• Protein Swap: Try scallops, diced chicken breast, or even tofu for a vegetarian take.
• Rice Alternatives: Quinoa, cauliflower rice, or couscous all work well. If you’re after a low-carb version, cauliflower rice with a touch of cream still captures that herby richness.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use olive oil instead of butter and swap the cream in the rice for coconut milk or a dairy-free cream.
• Herb Variations: Don’t have fresh parsley or dill? Basil, cilantro, or chives can also shine.
• Spice Level: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want some kick.

This recipe is incredibly flexible, so don’t be afraid to get creative with what you have on hand.

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Ingredients for This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice

• Shrimp
  The star of the bowl—plump, juicy shrimp take on the garlic butter beautifully and provide that savory, ocean-fresh flavor.
• Butter
  Essential for the garlic shrimp—it adds richness and helps develop that golden sear.
• Garlic
  Fresh garlic infuses the butter and shrimp with deep, aromatic flavor. It’s the backbone of this dish.
• Lemon Juice
  Brightens everything up with a fresh, tangy note that balances the richness of the butter and cream.
• Fresh Parsley
  Adds freshness and color, both in the rice and sprinkled on top for garnish.
• Cooked White or Brown Rice
  Serves as the base—neutral, hearty, and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
• Heavy Cream
  Makes the rice creamy and comforting, turning it into more than just a filler.
• Salt & Pepper
  Simple but necessary—season both the shrimp and rice to bring out all the flavors.
• Olive Oil
  Used alongside butter to keep it from burning and give a balanced depth to the sear.
• Dried or Fresh Dill (optional)
  A bonus herb that pairs exceptionally well with both seafood and cream-based dishes.

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Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Start with cooked rice—either freshly made or leftover. In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and pour in the rice. Stir in the heavy cream and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix until everything is creamy and warm. Add chopped parsley and dill (if using). Let it simmer on low while you prepare the shrimp.

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Step 2: Season and Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels, then season with salt, pepper, and a touch of paprika or chili flakes if you like a hint of heat. This helps the shrimp get that golden sear when they hit the pan.

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Step 3: Sauté the Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter with a drizzle of olive oil. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. This quick step is what infuses the whole dish with flavor.

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Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer to the garlic butter. Sear for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until pink and slightly charred at the edges. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice right at the end for a final burst of brightness.

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Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

Scoop the creamy herb rice into a wide bowl or plate. Top generously with the garlic butter shrimp. Spoon any remaining sauce from the skillet over the top. Sprinkle with extra parsley or a lemon wedge if you like.

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How Long to Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

This dish is a quick one from start to finish. Here’s a general timing guide:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Rice Heating & Creaming: 5–7 minutes
• Shrimp Cooking: 4–6 minutes total (2–3 minutes per side)
• Assembly: 2 minutes

In total, you’re looking at around 20 minutes from ingredients to dinner table. Perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

• Dry Your Shrimp Well
  Excess moisture prevents searing. Use paper towels to get them as dry as possible before seasoning.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
  Cook the shrimp in batches if needed. Giving each one space helps them brown, not steam.
• Use Real Butter
  The richness of real butter makes a huge difference—avoid margarine or butter blends.
• Fresh Garlic is Best
  Skip the jarred stuff if you can. Freshly minced garlic gives sharper, deeper flavor.
• Stir the Rice Gently
  When adding cream to the rice, fold it in gently to avoid turning the rice mushy.
• Lemon at the End
  Always add lemon juice after cooking the shrimp—it keeps the flavor fresh and prevents bitterness.
• Taste and Adjust
  Don’t forget to taste both the rice and shrimp before serving. A touch more salt or herbs can really make the flavors pop.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using Wet Shrimp
  If you skip drying the shrimp, they’ll steam instead of sear, leading to a rubbery texture.
• Burning the Garlic
  Garlic cooks quickly. Letting it brown too much can make it bitter and overpower the dish.
• Adding Cream Too Early to Rice
  Don’t add cream while the rice is still too hot or it can reduce too fast and turn oily. Simmer gently.
• Overcooking Shrimp
  Shrimp cook fast—leave them on too long and they’ll become tough. Remove from heat once they turn pink and curl.
• Skipping the Lemon
  That splash of acidity at the end balances the butter and brings all the flavors to life. Don’t leave it out.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl?

Roasted Asparagus

Its mild bitterness and crisp texture contrast beautifully with the creamy rice and buttery shrimp.

Crusty Garlic Bread

Great for soaking up the leftover garlic butter and cream from the bowl.

Cucumber Salad

A fresh, crunchy side with a simple vinaigrette adds cool balance to the warm, rich main dish.

Grilled Zucchini

A light and charred vegetable option that doesn’t compete with the shrimp’s flavor.

Chili-Lime Corn on the Cob

Adds a sweet-spicy crunch that pairs perfectly with garlicky seafood.

Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest

Simple and healthy, with a touch of citrus to echo the shrimp’s brightness.

White Wine or Sparkling Water with Citrus

Something crisp and refreshing to sip alongside keeps the meal light and bright.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice stores well with a few simple steps:

• Refrigeration:
  Store shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Reheating:
  Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or butter to keep them moist. For the rice, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit of cream or broth to bring back its creamy texture.
• Freezing (Not Recommended):
  Shrimp tend to get rubbery once frozen and reheated, and the creamy rice can become grainy. Best to enjoy this fresh or refrigerated.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: ~520
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 220mg
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 580mg

These values can vary depending on the exact type and amount of ingredients used, especially if you make substitutions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly and don’t release excess water into the pan.

Is there a dairy-free version of this dish?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for olive oil or vegan butter, and replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free creamer for the rice.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the rice ahead and even cook the shrimp a few hours early. Reheat gently before serving to keep everything moist and flavorful.

What herbs work best in the creamy rice?

Parsley and dill are ideal, but basil, chives, or even a pinch of thyme can work beautifully too.

How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?

Watch their color and shape—shrimp are done when they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape. Remove them from heat immediately.

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and warm before adding the cream and herbs.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It is naturally gluten-free, just double-check labels on butter and cream if using processed versions to be safe.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, whole milk (with a bit of cornstarch to thicken), or a plant-based alternative like oat or coconut cream.

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Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice is a true flavor-forward dish that manages to feel both indulgent and simple. It’s fast enough for a Tuesday night but elegant enough for guests, with bold garlic, buttery richness, and soft herbed rice that makes every bite satisfying. With easy substitutions and quick cleanup, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep on repeat—and share with everyone you know.

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