This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl is a mouthwatering treat! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over fluffy herb rice. Yum!
I love how this dish makes dinner feel fancy without much fuss. Grab a fork and dig in! Just be ready for the garlic goodness to have everyone asking for seconds! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp bring a nice bite, but you can also use medium shrimp or even shrimp that are frozen. Just make sure they’re thawed completely before cooking. If you’re not a shrimp fan, chicken or tofu can work well, too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute — just use about 1/4 teaspoon per clove. I love the aroma of fresh garlic cooking; it makes the whole kitchen smell amazing!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce. If you want a lighter option, try half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. I’ve used both and they still taste great!
Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for this dish due to its fluffy texture. You can swap it for brown rice for added nutrition, but check the cooking time as it may take longer.
How Do You Make the Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce?
The sauce is where the magic happens. Here’s how to get it just right:
- After sautéing the garlic, lower the heat to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can taste bitter!
- Mix in the broth and cream slowly, stirring to blend flavors well. This creates a smooth sauce.
- Let it simmer a bit; this helps it thicken and intensify the flavor. Be patient here – it’s worth it!
With these tips in mind, your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl will turn out delicious every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl With Herb Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or seafood broth
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 cup long grain rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth for cooking rice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick and easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight or perfect for impressing guests on the weekend!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Herb Rice:
Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps your rice be fluffy! In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for more flavor). Bring it to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover it up, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. Check if it’s tender and the liquid is absorbed. When ready, take it off the heat, let it sit for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork and mix in half of the chopped parsley.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the rice is cooking, pat the shrimp dry using paper towels and season them with salt, pepper, and paprika. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, just until fragrant but not browned. Next, pour in the chicken or seafood broth, the heavy cream, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Now it’s time to bring it all together! Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the creamy garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly. Stir in the rest of the chopped parsley and make sure to taste it! You might want to adjust seasoning with salt and pepper here.
5. Serve:
To plate, spoon the herb rice into bowls and then top it with the creamy garlic butter shrimp. If you’re feeling fancy, add a sprinkle of extra parsley on top for garnish, and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious meal!
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl is a delightful combination of rich flavors and fresh ingredients, perfect for any night of the week!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for a quicker option.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, half-and-half works well. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk is a great choice that adds a nice flavor to the sauce!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! Brown rice is a nutritious alternative, but it has a longer cooking time. Check the package instructions and adjust the cooking time to ensure it’s fully cooked and tender.
