One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that’s both comforting and packed with flavor, this one-pan creamy garlic butter shrimp and rice recipe is the perfect choice. You’ll love how everything cooks together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying dinner with minimal fuss.

this Recipe

The creamy garlic butter shrimp delivers a rich and luscious sauce that coats tender shrimp and fluffy rice, bringing deliciousness to every bite. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a home-cooked seafood dish without complicated steps or cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously creamy and garlicky shrimp in a buttery sauce
• All cooked in one pan for easy cleanup
• Ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy evenings
• Balanced meal with protein and rice in one dish
• Uses simple pantry ingredients you likely have on hand

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your creamy garlic butter shrimp and rice. The recipe serves four people and is designed for stovetop cooking.

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 1/2 cups long grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken broth, low sodium
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 450 per serving

How to Make One-Pan Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice — Easy 30-Minute Meal

1. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the shrimp seasoned with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika, and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and just cooked through. Remove shrimp and set aside.
2. In the same pan, melt remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
3. Add the rice to the skillet and toast it for 2 minutes, stirring constantly so it gets lightly coated with the garlic butter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Stir in the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and cooked shrimp. Cook uncovered for another 2-3 minutes to warm through and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
6. Remove from heat, stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp initially to avoid rubbery texture; they will cook more later with the rice.
• Toast the rice before adding liquid to enhance its nutty flavor.
• Cover the pan tightly during rice cooking to prevent moisture loss and ensure fluffy rice.
• Adjust garlic and red pepper flakes to your taste preference for more or less spice.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover creamy garlic butter shrimp and rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep the shrimp tender, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess.

This dish is not recommended for freezing as the texture of the shrimp and creamy sauce may change after thawing. For best flavor and texture, enjoy leftovers within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce consistency.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich or creamy. For a dairy-free version, coconut cream works well but will add a subtle coconut flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free chicken broth. Always check your broth label to be sure.

Is it possible to make this recipe spicy?

Yes, adding crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper will give the dish a nice kick. You can adjust the spice level to your liking.