If you’re craving a restaurant-quality seafood meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is the perfect choice. It combines tender, juicy shrimp sautéed in a velvety garlic butter sauce with a bed of aromatic herb-infused rice — creating the perfect balance of richness and freshness.
This dish delivers both comfort and sophistication. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a satisfying meal that looks and tastes gourmet with minimal effort.
Ingredients
Serves 4
For the Herb Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Rice
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add rice and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast.
- Pour in chicken broth, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in parsley and basil.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
- While rice cooks, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- In the same skillet, pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and lemon juice until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return shrimp to the skillet, toss to coat in sauce, and season with salt and pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Bowl
- Spoon a serving of herb rice into each bowl.
- Top with creamy garlic butter shrimp and drizzle extra sauce over the top.
- Garnish with parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a light green salad for a balanced meal.
- Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy twist.
- Pair with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay.
- For a low-carb option, serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zoodles.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Total Fat | 22 g |
| Saturated Fat | 12 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Sugars | 1 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 420 mg |
| Cholesterol | 220 mg |
Nutritional Notes:
- Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in calories, making this a nutrient-dense main dish.
- Garlic and herbs offer antioxidants and boost flavor naturally without excess sodium.
- Using cream and butter in moderation provides richness while keeping the sauce balanced.
Tips for Best Results
- Don’t overcook the shrimp — they only need about 2–3 minutes total.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, creamier sauce.
- Add a splash of white wine or vegetable broth to deglaze the pan for extra flavor.
- For meal prep, store shrimp and rice separately to keep textures fresh when reheating.
Variations to Try
- Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern twist.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Vegan Adaptation: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms and tofu, and use coconut cream.
- Asian Fusion: Add a drizzle of soy sauce and sesame oil for umami depth.
This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is the ultimate comfort dish that brings restaurant flavors right to your home kitchen. Creamy, buttery, and perfectly seasoned, it delivers everything you love about shrimp pasta but with a lighter, fresher twist.
With its quick prep time, balanced nutrition, and elegant presentation, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for any occasion.