Insanely Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp over Fluffy Rice (25 Minutes Total!)

This one-pan shrimp dish is pure decadence: tender shrimp seared to perfection, then smothered in a silky, garlicky cream sauce that clings to every bite. The Parmesan adds nutty richness, lemon juice cuts through the heaviness, and a hint of chili flakes brings gentle warmth. Paired with fragrant steamed rice, it’s a high-flavor, high-satisfaction meal that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier.

Servings: 2 generous portions (easily doubled)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: About 25 minutes
Approximate Nutrition per Serving: ~600–650 kcal, ~35–40g protein

Ingredients

For the shrimp:

• 300 g (10–12 oz) raw large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off—your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3–4 garlic cloves, finely minced (fresh is key for bold flavor)
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice (plus zest if desired for extra brightness)
• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

For the creamy garlic sauce:

• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream (or whipping cream)
• 2–3 tablespoons freshly grated Parmesan cheese (more for serving)
• ¼–½ teaspoon red chili flakes (adjust for heat level)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Optional: Splash of white wine or chicken broth (1–2 tbsp) to deglaze

For the rice:

• 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice (rinsed until water runs clear)
• 2 cups water
• Pinch of salt
• Optional: 1 tsp butter or a splash of olive oil for extra fluffiness

For finishing:

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped (generous handful)
• Extra cracked black pepper and lemon wedges

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the rice
   Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. In a medium pot, combine rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer 12 minutes (or per package instructions). Remove from heat and let sit covered 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
2. Sear the shrimp
   Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels—this ensures a nice sear. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink, opaque, and lightly golden. Remove to a plate—don’t overcook; they’ll finish in the sauce.
3. Build the creamy garlic sauce
   Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and let it melt. Toss in minced garlic and sauté 30–60 seconds until fragrant and just golden (don’t burn it!).
   Pour in heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan cheese, chili flakes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer gently 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth, wine, or reserved pasta water (if you have any).
4. Finish the dish
   Return the seared shrimp (and any accumulated juices) to the skillet. Toss gently to coat every shrimp in the sauce. Cook 1 more minute to warm through and meld flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning—more lemon for brightness, more Parmesan for richness, more chili for heat.
5. Plate and serve
   Spoon fluffy steamed rice onto plates. Top with creamy garlic butter shrimp and plenty of sauce.
   Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra cracked black pepper. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a final bright squeeze.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t overcook shrimp — They turn rubbery fast; remove them early and let the sauce finish the job.
• Fresh garlic — Minced fresh garlic gives the best flavor—avoid pre-minced jars if possible.
• Sauce consistency — Simmer gently; high heat can cause separation. Add more cream or a splash of broth to loosen if needed.
• Make-ahead — Cook rice and prep shrimp earlier; reheat sauce gently and add shrimp at the end.

Delicious Variations

• Dairy-free — Swap heavy cream for full-fat coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Veggie boost — Stir in baby spinach, asparagus tips, or mushrooms in the last 2 minutes of simmering.
• Protein swap — Use scallops, diced chicken breast, or even salmon fillets.
• Spicy lovers — Double the chili flakes or add fresh diced chili or sriracha.

This insanely creamy garlic butter shrimp with steamed rice is rich, garlicky, lemony, and utterly addictive—the perfect quick luxury dinner. It’s one of those recipes you’ll crave on repeat! Try it tonight and let me know if you added any twists in the comments. 🍤🧄🍚