Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Looking for a seafood recipe that feels luxurious but comes together in minutes? This creamy garlic shrimp with rice dish is exactly what your weeknight dinner routine needs. It’s a one-pan meal that delivers rich, buttery flavor with a balance of zesty herbs and fresh garlic. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just craving something hearty and comforting, this dish makes a strong case for becoming a regular on your table.

Shrimp, often celebrated for its versatility and quick cook time, is the star of this recipe. It’s pan-seared until perfectly tender and then coated in a luscious garlic herb cream sauce that turns ordinary rice into something extraordinary. Shrimp is not only easy to prepare but also rich in protein and low in calories, making it a favorite among health-conscious seafood lovers. Learn more about this protein-packed ingredient by checking out the Wikipedia article on shrimp.

What sets this dish apart is its creamy texture—thanks to heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, ingredients that blend seamlessly with Italian seasoning and fresh parsley. For those unfamiliar with what gives Italian seasoning its iconic flavor profile, it’s typically a mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, which you can explore more in this Wikipedia breakdown of Italian seasoning. If you’re looking to elevate your pantry essentials, these herbs are a must-have.

To bring the dish together, the shrimp is spooned over a fluffy bed of long grain rice simmered in chicken broth—a technique that infuses flavor into every grain. Cooking rice in broth instead of water is a small touch that makes a major difference in taste. Interested in what makes white rice such a staple around the world? Explore the history and uses of white rice for more insight.

This meal is perfect for busy nights when you want something indulgent but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. In under 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-worthy plate that satisfies all the senses—creamy, garlicky, herby, and beautifully balanced. Plus, with ingredients like garlic, Parmesan cheese, and shrimp, it’s a dinner you’ll want to make again and again.

If you’re browsing for seafood dinner ideas, you’ll also find inspiration from similar meals like those showcased on Pinterest’s seafood recipe boards. Whether you’re new to cooking with shrimp or already a seasoned home chef, this creamy garlic shrimp with rice recipe will earn a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic shrimp with rice recipe stands out not only for its rich flavor but also for how approachable it is. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish checks every box—from weeknight simplicity to dinner party elegance. Here’s why this will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen:

• It’s quick and easy. With just a few steps and a single skillet, this entire dish comes together in under 30 minutes. You’ll sear the shrimp, simmer the garlic herb cream sauce, and serve it all over perfectly cooked rice. There’s no complicated prep or technique involved.
• Incredible flavor, minimal effort. The combination of garlic, Parmesan, and Italian herbs creates a deep, satisfying flavor that tastes like it took hours to prepare. But really, you’re just using a few pantry staples in a smart way. Want to explore the science behind Parmesan cheese and why it melts so perfectly? This guide on Parmesan has the answers.
• Flexible and adaptable. You can easily switch up the ingredients. Don’t have heavy cream? Use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. Want to lower the carbs? Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Love spicy food? Add a pinch more crushed red pepper flakes.
• Crowd-pleaser appeal. The comforting, creamy base combined with tender, juicy shrimp makes this a dish that satisfies picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. If you’re looking for more weeknight dinner inspiration, Pinterest has plenty of easy dinner recipes to explore.
• Elegant but accessible. Despite its upscale appearance, this dish uses everyday ingredients and straightforward steps. Serve it in a shallow bowl with a lemon wedge and sprinkle of parsley, and it’ll feel like a meal from your favorite bistro.

From flavor to functionality, this creamy garlic shrimp with rice recipe is a perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a regular in your rotation—and a reliable go-to when you want to impress without the stress.

Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions

Understanding each ingredient in this creamy garlic shrimp with rice recipe helps you appreciate the flavor layers and gives you flexibility in your cooking. Here’s a detailed look at what goes into this dish and how you can make substitutions without compromising on taste or texture.

For the Shrimp and Sauce

• Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined)
  Choose large shrimp for a meaty bite. Frozen shrimp work well—just thaw and pat dry. Learn more about its culinary uses on Wikipedia’s shrimp page.
• Olive Oil (1 tablespoon)
  Used to sauté the shrimp, it provides richness and helps build a flavor base. You can substitute with avocado oil or butter if desired.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
  A key ingredient for depth and aroma. For convenience, pre-minced garlic can be used, but fresh garlic offers the boldest flavor. Explore garlic’s impact on cuisines globally in this article.
• Heavy Cream (1 cup)
  The base of the sauce, giving it that silky, rich consistency. If you need a lighter version, swap for half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. See more about cream types to find what suits your taste.
• Chicken Broth (½ cup)
  Adds umami and balances the richness of the cream. Use homemade or store-bought low-sodium broth. For more depth, consider seafood stock as an alternative. Wikipedia explains broth basics.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated)
  Melts into the sauce, enhancing creaminess with a salty, nutty bite. Always choose freshly grated for the best texture. Read more on Parmesan’s role in cooking.
• Italian Seasoning (1 teaspoon)
  A mix of dried basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary. You can use a pre-blended version or create your own with dried herbs. Learn more about its composition in this Wikipedia overview.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (½ teaspoon, optional)
  Adds a kick of heat. Adjust to your spice tolerance or leave it out entirely for a milder dish.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste)
  Essential for seasoning at every step—season the shrimp before cooking, and taste the sauce before serving.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped)
  A vibrant garnish that adds color and freshness. Swap with basil or chives for a twist.

For the Rice

• Long Grain White Rice (1 cup)
  Light and fluffy, it complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Jasmine or basmati are excellent alternatives. Check out the history and versatility of white rice for more ideas.
• Water or Chicken Broth (2 cups)
  Cooking rice in broth infuses it with savory flavor. Broth works particularly well if serving to guests or for special occasions.
• Butter (1 tablespoon)
  Stirred in after cooking for a silky finish. You can replace it with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
• Salt (to taste)
  Enhances flavor and balances richness from the shrimp and sauce.

Substitutions and Add-Ons

• Dairy-free? Use unsweetened coconut milk and vegan Parmesan.
• Vegetarian? Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu.
• Low-carb? Serve over cauliflower rice or spiralized zucchini noodles.
• Want more greens? Stir in a handful of spinach or kale to the sauce for added nutrients.

Need more inspiration for variations and garnishes? Browse creamy shrimp dinner ideas on Pinterest to spark your creativity. This dish invites customization while keeping its core appeal: a harmonious blend of creamy, garlicky, and herby flavors that work with nearly any dietary preference.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this creamy garlic shrimp with rice efficiently and with minimal mess, you only need a few basic kitchen tools. Keeping things simple is part of what makes this recipe ideal for busy weeknights.

• Large Non-Stick Skillet
  Essential for cooking the shrimp evenly and for building the creamy garlic sauce in one pan. A non-stick surface helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Medium Saucepan
  Used to cook the long grain rice. Choose one with a tight-fitting lid to help steam the rice properly and achieve a fluffy texture.
• Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
  Needed for mincing garlic and chopping fresh parsley. A quality knife ensures quick and safe prep work.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
  Precision matters, especially when working with cream and seasonings. Use dry and liquid measuring sets for accuracy.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula
  Ideal for stirring the sauce gently and scraping the skillet without damaging the non-stick coating.

Having the right tools on hand makes the cooking process smooth and helps ensure consistent results every time you prepare this dish.

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice (Step-by-Step Instructions)

Cook the Rice

• In a medium saucepan, add 1 cup of long grain rice and 2 cups of water or chicken broth.
• Add 1 tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed.
• Remove from heat and let stand for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Cooking rice in chicken broth instead of water enhances the base flavor of the entire dish. It’s a simple trick that adds depth, especially when paired with the creamy shrimp sauce.

Cook the Shrimp

• In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Season the 1 lb of shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
• Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
• Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.

Avoid overcooking—shrimp cook quickly and continue to cook slightly even after being removed from heat.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Herb Cream Sauce

• In the same skillet, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Stir to combine.
• Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional).
• Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Let simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Parmesan cheese melts into the sauce, giving it a velvety finish. Learn why this cheese is essential in creamy dishes by visiting Wikipedia’s Parmesan guide.

Combine and Serve

• Return cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
• Simmer for another 1–2 minutes until heated through.
• Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for brightness and color.
• Serve immediately over the prepared rice.

To make your presentation even more appealing, serve in shallow bowls and garnish with a lemon wedge or extra grated cheese.

If you’re looking for visual ideas on how to present creamy shrimp dishes, check out Pinterest’s collection of shrimp dinner plates for presentation tips.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This creamy garlic shrimp with rice recipe is satisfying on its own, but a few well-chosen sides or drinks can elevate the experience.

Suggested Garnishes:

• Fresh lemon wedges for acidity
• Extra chopped parsley for color
• Additional Parmesan for richness

Great Side Dishes:

• Steamed green vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini
• Crusty garlic bread or toasted baguette slices
• A simple garden salad with balsamic vinaigrette

Beverage Pairings:

• A crisp Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio balances the creaminess
• Sparkling water with lemon or cucumber
• Light rosé for a refreshing twist

Use the richness of the sauce as the guiding element when choosing what to pair. Lighter, acidic sides and drinks contrast well with the buttery cream.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Proper storage and reheating will help you enjoy this dish again with minimal loss of flavor or texture.

To Store:

• Cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To Reheat:

• On the stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore the sauce.
• In the microwave: Reheat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, and add a bit of moisture if needed.

Note: While shrimp can be reheated, overcooking may make it rubbery, so reheat gently.

Freezing is not recommended due to the dairy content in the sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving Estimate)

Here’s a nutritional snapshot based on standard ingredient measurements. Exact values may vary depending on product brands and substitutions.

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 870mg

For a lighter option, consider reducing the cream or using low-fat cheese. You can also substitute the rice with cauliflower rice to lower the carbs significantly.

Recipe Variations to Try

Want to shake things up? Try one of these popular twists on the base recipe:

• Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning and extra chili flakes.
• Creamy Tuscan Style: Mix in spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and garlic-infused olive oil.
• Thai-Inspired Coconut Shrimp: Replace cream with coconut milk and add lime zest, ginger, and cilantro.
• Loaded Veggie Version: Add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra bulk and nutrients.

These variations help keep the core concept exciting while catering to different flavor preferences or dietary needs.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just thaw them thoroughly and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half, full-fat coconut milk, or cashew cream are good alternatives, depending on dietary needs and flavor preferences.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat on medium-low and stir constantly when adding the cream and cheese. Avoid boiling the sauce after cream is added.

What kind of rice works best?
Long grain white rice, jasmine, or basmati are ideal. Avoid sticky rice or short grain types, as they can become mushy under the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep and store the sauce and rice separately. However, shrimp is best cooked fresh for optimal texture.

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