If you are craving something that feels both comforting and indulgently fresh, then you are going to love this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe. It strikes the perfect balance with succulent shrimp bathed in a velvety garlic butter sauce paired alongside fragrant, herb-infused rice. This dish, with its layers of flavors and textures, is an absolute showstopper for any day of the week. Once you try it, I promise it will become one of those go-to meals you can’t wait to share with friends and family.

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is delightfully simple, but each component plays a crucial role in creating the amazing taste, texture, and color that make the dish sing. From fresh herbs that brighten every bite to creamy elements that add richness, it’s a composition worth savoring.

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein offering sweet, tender seafood flavor and quick cooking time.
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Essential for that luscious, creamy sauce and sautéing garlic to perfection.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant, savory base that elevates the entire dish.
1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates the silky, rich texture of the sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Imparts a subtle nuttiness and depth, enhancing the creamy sauce.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning that brings out all the flavors harmoniously.
1 cup long grain white rice: The perfect fluffy base to soak up every drop of the incredible sauce.
2 cups chicken broth: Adds savory moisture to cook the rice and infuses it with extra flavor.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Brings fresh herbaceous brightness and lovely green flecks.
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme): Adds an earthy, aromatic complexity to the herb rice.
1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for toasting the rice and creating a nice depth of flavor.
Juice of 1/2 lemon: Adds the perfect hint of brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Rice for Extra Flavor

Begin by heating olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and toast it for about 2 minutes. This simple step unlocks a nutty aroma and depth in the rice that makes the dish stand out.

Step 2: Cook the Herb Rice

Add chicken broth to the toasted rice and bring it to a gentle boil. Then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. The broth infuses the rice with savory goodness.

Step 3: Mix in Fresh Herbs

Once the rice is cooked, stir in half of the chopped parsley and thyme. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and let the fresh herbs release their aroma. Keep the rice warm while you prepare the shrimp.

Step 4: Sauté Garlic in Butter

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about one minute. This fragrant garlic butter forms the flavor base that wraps the shrimp in deliciousness.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook them for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside; you’ll add them back in soon to soak up the sauce.

Step 6: Prepare the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to low, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter along with the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and velvety. The magic of this sauce is its rich, creamy texture that coats the shrimp perfectly.

Step 7: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the sauce to coat. Let them cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and marry all those flavors beautifully.

Step 8: Add a Touch of Lemon and Fresh Herbs

Remove the skillet from the heat and drizzle the juice of half a lemon over the shrimp. Garnish with the remaining parsley for a fresh pop of color and brightness.

Step 9: Assemble the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe

Serve the succulent shrimp and luscious cream sauce over the warm, herby rice bowls. Each bite is a joyful celebration of creamy, garlicky seafood goodness paired with aromatic rice.

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or a few fresh thyme leaves on top for a burst of herbal freshness and a lovely visual touch. A lemon wedge on the side can be a welcome addition for those who love an extra zing.

Side Dishes

This dish shines brightly on its own but pairs beautifully with a light side salad of crunchy greens dressed in a simple vinaigrette, or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli to add crisp texture and color contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

For an inviting presentation, serve the shrimp and herb rice in deep bowls, layer the rice first, then spoon the shrimp and creamy sauce on top so each serving looks decadent and inviting. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts or a bit of crumbled feta cheese for a unique twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover creamy garlic butter shrimp bowls store well in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the shrimp and rice together so the flavors meld even more overnight.

Freezing

While the shrimp and sauce might lose some texture after freezing, you can freeze the herb rice separately in a tightly sealed container for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating to maintain quality.

Reheating

Gently reheat the shrimp and sauce over low heat on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Reheat the herb rice separately with a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it fluffy and moist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure they sauté nicely.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option, but keep in mind the texture and flavor might be slightly different.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just confirm that your chicken broth and Parmesan cheese are gluten-free, as some brands may have additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I know when shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are ready when they turn pink with opaque flesh and curl into a loose ‘C’ shape. Overcooking causes them to curl tightly and become rubbery.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Peas, spinach, or cherry tomatoes can be stirred in with the shrimp to add a fresh pop of color and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe enough for a meal that feels both decadent and approachable. Its rich sauce, tender shrimp, and fragrant rice make every bite a pleasure. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a favorite in your home as well.