Dinner

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe

BySarah Summers December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for weeknight dinners. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, then tossed with parmesan and cream for an indulgent finish. Serve it over your favorite rice for a comforting meal everyone will love.

A close-up view of a white plate holding cooked rice on the left side, with finely chopped green herbs sprinkled on top. On the right side, there is a creamy orange-colored sauce with a smooth texture, covered with cooked shrimp arranged in a scattered pattern. The shrimp are orange-pink with a slightly crispy surface and are garnished evenly with small green herb pieces. The background surface has a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
1/3 cup parmesan, freshly grated
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower)
Fresh parsley or green onion, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika evenly on all sides.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and sear until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), freshly grated parmesan, and lemon juice if using. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
Step 5: Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and toss them in the creamy sauce. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to heat through and meld the flavors.
Step 6: Serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp over warm rice. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onion before serving. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Use cauliflower rice to make this dish low-carb and gluten-free.
Fresh lemon juice brightens the sauce but can be omitted if you prefer a richer flavor.
Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to prevent the cream sauce from separating. You can also microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.

How to Serve

The image shows a white plate with a curved edge on a white marbled surface. On one side of the plate, there is a mound of white rice sprinkled with green herbs. Next to the rice, there are about ten cooked shrimp, orange in color with visible seasoning, placed in a thick creamy sauce that is light orange and speckled with green herbs. The shrimp and sauce cover the other half of the plate, creating a nice contrast with the rice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure they sear properly.

What type of rice pairs best with this dish?

White jasmine or basmati rice complements the creamy sauce nicely, but brown rice or cauliflower rice are great alternatives depending on your preference.