This creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl is pure comfort! Juicy shrimp bathed in rich garlic butter, paired with fluffy herb rice for a tasty meal that’s easy to love.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll find yourself sneaking extra shrimp. The smell alone is mouthwatering! Serve it with a sprinkle of parsley for that extra pop. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are the star here! If you prefer alternatives, try scallops or chicken breast, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. If you’re dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute for similar richness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic packs the most flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too. Use about 1/8 tsp of powder for a quick alternative.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, substitute with half-and-half or use coconut cream for a dairy-free selection. Both will change the flavor slightly, but still be delicious!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is a classic. Swap it with brown rice for a healthier option, though adjust cooking time as it takes longer. Quinoa or cauliflower rice are great gluten-free substitutes.
How Can I Make Sure My Shrimp is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky—they’re quick to become rubbery. Here are some tips:
- Make sure the shrimp are thoroughly dried before cooking for the best sear.
- Cook them in a single layer without overcrowding the pan; this promotes even cooking.
- Keep an eye on the color: when they turn pink and opaque, they’re done—about 2-3 minutes per side.
- If unsure, use a digital meat thermometer; shrimp are perfectly cooked at 120°F (49°C).
With these insights, you’ll craft a creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl that’s sure to impress! Happy cooking!
How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl With Herb Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Herb Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water or broth (for cooking rice)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp olive oil
Optional:
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
- Mixed greens or side salad for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes in total: about 10 minutes for prep, and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s a quick and delightful recipe perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Herb Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice along with a pinch of salt. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed. Once done, remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and mix in 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley and 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Cover and keep warm.
2. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the rice cooks, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for flavor.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Once the butter is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter along with the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, but be careful not to let the garlic burn.
5. Add Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, along with the lemon juice and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the creamy garlic butter sauce. Let everything cook together for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Assemble the Bowl:
Take a serving of the herb rice and plate it. Top the rice with the shrimp and spoon extra creamy garlic butter sauce over the top.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finish off by sprinkling the remaining fresh parsley and optional cilantro over the dish. Serve immediately with a side of mixed greens or salad for balance.
Enjoy your luscious, creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl accented by bright herb-infused rice!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Ideally, thaw them overnight in the fridge, or you can place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for quicker thawing.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and a tablespoon of flour for thickness. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut cream or a non-dairy cream substitute.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp and rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring the shrimp are heated through but not overcooked.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli. Just sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic, or cook them with the shrimp for an extra boost of nutrition!
