Crafting dinner can sometimes feel like a daunting task, especially when you’re looking for something both delicious and quick to prepare. That’s where creamy garlic butter shrimp comes in. This delightful, flavorful dish marries juicy shrimp with rich, buttery sauce over fluffy rice, making it the perfect weeknight treat or impressive meal for guests.

Why you’ll love this dish

This creamy garlic butter shrimp recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First off, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking just about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish becomes a go-to meal you can whip up without hassle. It’s also budget-friendly; with simple ingredients, you won’t break the bank to create something that tastes gourmet.

The best part? It’s kid-approved! If you have picky eaters in your house, the buttery, garlicky flavors of this dish are likely to win them over. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve for an intimate dinner or at a family gathering.

“Absolutely loved this dish! The flavors are outstanding, and it came together so quickly. My kids cleaned their plates!”

The cooking process explained

Making this easy shrimp and rice dish involves a few straightforward steps that anyone can follow. You’ll start by cooking the rice, then sauté the shrimp to golden perfection, and finally combine everything in a creamy garlic sauce. This not only keeps the shrimp tender but also allows each bite to be infused with flavor.

Gather these items

For this creamy garlic butter shrimp recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• Salt, to taste
• 1 tbsp butter

If you don’t have heavy cream on hand, you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version; however, this will slightly change the creaminess of the sauce.

Step-by-step instructions

To make this creamy garlic butter shrimp, follow these easy steps:

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, water or chicken broth, salt, and butter. Bring it to a boil.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18–20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat and leave covered.
3. While the rice is cooking, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, cooking for 1–2 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium, then add unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant.
6. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
7. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmering until the sauce thickens slightly, which should take about 3–5 minutes.
8. Add lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using) before returning the shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat and heat through.
9. Serve the creamy garlic butter shrimp over the warm rice. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Best ways to enjoy it

This creamy garlic butter shrimp is perfect on its own but can be elevated with a few creative serving suggestions. Consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or citrus zest for an extra pop of flavor and color. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal, or serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Storage and reheating tips

To keep your leftovers fresh, store any unused portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume them within 2–3 days for optimal flavor and safety. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.

Helpful cooking tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your creamy garlic butter shrimp is a hit every time! First, be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink. Additionally, using freshly minced garlic will elevate the flavor more than pre-minced options. Lastly, don’t hesitate to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Recipe variations

Feeling adventurous? Try switching things up a bit! You can add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to the sauce for added nutrition and flavor. For a lighter version, substitute half of the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a twist, consider experimenting with different herbs or cheese, such as feta or mozzarella, for a unique spin on the dish.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

This creamy garlic butter shrimp takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it an excellent option for a quick weeknight dinner.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the leftovers, but be aware that the texture of the shrimp may change after freezing. Store in an airtight container and consume within 2 months for the best quality.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, salad, or garlic bread. You can also opt for a light white wine if you’re serving it for a special occasion.

With this creamy garlic butter shrimp recipe, your dinner prep just got a whole lot easier and tastier. Enjoy!

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