Name: Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped parsley; 2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is the kind of meal I reach for when I want something rich, comforting, and impressive without spending hours in the kitchen. Succulent shrimp are seared and then simmered in a buttery garlic cream sauce that’s full of flavor and indulgence. Served over warm, fluffy white rice, it’s a dish that satisfies with every bite and feels like a restaurant-quality dinner made right at home.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon paprika

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 tablespoons chopped parsley

2 cups cooked white rice (for serving)

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Then I add the shrimp and season them with paprika, salt, and black pepper. I cook them for about 1–2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque, then remove them and set them aside.

In the same skillet, I melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. I sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until it’s fragrant.

I pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then I stir in the Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using), letting it simmer for 3–4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

I return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for another 2–3 minutes, stirring to coat them well.

I remove the skillet from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley on top, and serve the shrimp and sauce over warm white rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and comes together quickly with just 10 minutes of prep time and 15 minutes of cooking time, making the total time around 25 minutes. Each serving has approximately 475 kcal.

Variations

I sometimes swap the white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or even pasta when I want to mix it up.

To add more veggies, I stir in a handful of spinach or cooked mushrooms into the sauce before adding the shrimp.

If I want to make it spicy, I increase the red pepper flakes or add a splash of hot sauce.

For a lighter version, I replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk.

I’ve also used scallops or a mix of seafood instead of shrimp for a twist on the original.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, I do it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. I avoid reheating multiple times to keep the shrimp from turning rubbery.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

I look for the shrimp to turn pink and opaque. They should curl slightly but not too tightly. Overcooked shrimp will be tough, so I keep an eye on them and remove them as soon as they’re done.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, I use frozen shrimp all the time. I just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

When I want a lighter version, I use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and a little butter. Coconut milk is also a great dairy-free alternative.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

I prefer it fresh, but I’ve made the sauce in advance and reheated it before adding freshly cooked shrimp just before serving. It helps keep the shrimp tender and flavorful.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as all the ingredients (like the Parmesan cheese and spices) are checked for gluten-containing additives.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is one of my go-to meals when I want something fast, flavorful, and a little indulgent. The garlicky cream sauce is rich and satisfying, and the shrimp come out perfectly tender every time. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing it with friends or family, this dish never fails to impress—and it’s so easy, I can make it anytime.

📖 Recipe:

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

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Author: Sophia
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is a quick, indulgent dish featuring tender shrimp simmered in a garlicky Parmesan cream sauce, served over warm white rice. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy enough for a weeknight dinner.