This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl is a yummy treat! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served on soft herb-flavored rice.
Honestly, what’s not to love? This dish is simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough to impress. I could eat it every week and not mind one bit! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp work best for this recipe, but if they’re not available, you can use medium shrimp or even cooked frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its richness. If you want a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a non-dairy milk with a splash of cornstarch to thicken it slightly.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan elevates the flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can add a cheesy taste. You could also use Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick!
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro give a fresh touch here. You can substitute with basil or chives if you prefer. Dried herbs work too, but use them sparingly—about 1/3rd of the amount.
Rice: Basmati or jasmine rice is preferred for fragrant qualities. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can replace it for a healthier twist!
How Do I Get that Perfectly Creamy Sauce?
Getting a creamy sauce is crucial for this dish! The method is simple. Start by sautéing garlic in melted butter until it’s fragrant.
- Then, add the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually for smoothness.
- Always remember to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
- For an extra flavor boost, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for warmth.
Don’t rush this step; let the sauce thicken naturally as it heats. It’ll coat your shrimp beautifully!
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl With Herb Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp and Sauce:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or additional parsley, chopped (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Herb Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Rice with Herbs:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, butter, and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to a simmer, cover it, and cook for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Once done, take it off the heat, let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff it with a fork and stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Keep the rice warm while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt the butter. Once it’s hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a kick. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden.
3. Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce:
Carefully flip the shrimp over and reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and any fresh herbs you’re using (like parsley and cilantro). Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes. Spoon the luscious sauce over the shrimp as it cooks, making sure the shrimp are fully cooked (they should be opaque and firm). Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
4. Assemble the Bowl:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spoon the fluffy herb rice into bowls first. Then, take your creamy garlic butter shrimp and place it on top of the rice along with plenty of that delicious sauce. If desired, garnish with extra chopped parsley or herbs for a fresh touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl immediately while it’s warm and creamy! This delightful dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables to complete your meal.
This recipe yields a comforting, flavorful bowl full of tender shrimp in a luscious herb garlic cream sauce, perfectly complemented by fragrant herb rice. Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can thaw shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or quickly in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water.
What Could I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or whole milk, though this may affect the creaminess. Non-dairy alternatives like coconut cream also work well for a dairy-free version!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Yes! Substitute shrimp with plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. Use vegan butter and coconut cream instead of butter and heavy cream. Also, ensure any cheese used is dairy-free. This will still yield a delicious creamy bowl!
