Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice; 2 cups water or broth; A pinch of salt; 1 tbsp butter (optional); 400 g shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp butter; Salt & black pepper, to taste; 1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional); Juice of 1/2 lemon; 1 tbsp butter; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 tsp Italian herbs or parsley, chopped; 1 extra clove garlic, minced; Additional salt & pepper to taste

Indulging in a bowl of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. The rich aroma of garlic sizzling in butter wafts through your kitchen as it intertwines with the delightful scent of cooked shrimp. This dish beckons you to relish its creamy sauce, which dances on your palate with each mouthful, leaving a lingering taste of parmesan and herbs. Picture a golden sunset creating a cozy ambiance while you serve this dish, perfect for intimate gatherings, quick weeknight dinners, or simply treating yourself after a long day.

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Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Highlights

Each serving of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is not only a delight to the senses but also packs a nutritious punch:

Calories: 580
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fat: 30g
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
(Nutritional information may vary based on specific ingredient brands used.)

This breakdown is based on data from the USDA National Nutrient Database, ensuring you remain informed about what you’re savoring.

Why You’ll Love It

This recipe encapsulates the bliss of comfort food while being incredibly easy to whip up, making it an ideal choice for weeknights or unexpected guests. Picture yourself enjoying the creamy texture, the buttery richness melding with the briny sweetness of shrimp, and the gentle heat from the chili flakes lingering just long enough to delight your taste buds. Each bite transports you back to sunny coastlines, where seafood reigns supreme. It embodies togetherness, making it a dish that you’ll enjoy sharing with loved ones, creating warm memories over the dinner table.

Step-by-Step Instructions

How to Make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Ingredients:

1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
2 cups water or broth
A pinch of salt
1 tbsp butter (optional, for extra flavor)
400 g shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp butter
Salt & black pepper, to taste
1/2 tsp chili flakes (optional, for a gentle kick)
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1 tbsp butter
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp Italian herbs or parsley, chopped
1 extra clove garlic, minced
Additional salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the Rice: Rinse rice under cold water until clear. In a pot, bring water, butter, and salt to a boil. Add rice, cover, and simmer for 12–15 minutes until fluffy. Keep warm while preparing the shrimp.
Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and chili flakes. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and juicy. Squeeze lemon juice over and remove from the pan. Set aside.
Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce: In the same pan, melt an additional tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté lightly. Pour in heavy cream, stir gently, then add Parmesan and herbs. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce has thickened and is glossy.
Combine Everything: Return the shrimp to the pan and coat in the creamy sauce. Simmer for 1 minute to absorb all the flavors.
Serve: Spoon hot rice into bowls. Top generously with the creamy garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.

Practical Tips:

Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be just pink and firm to prevent a rubbery texture.
Stir the sauce gently to maintain a creamy texture.

Best Pairings

This creamy delight is best served hot, harmonizing beautifully with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for the adults. For a non-alcoholic option, pair it with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea. You could also enjoy it with a light salad or crusty baguette to mop up every drop of the sauce, creating a well-rounded meal.

Storage Instructions

Keeping it Fresh

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but can sit at room temperature for about 2 hours.
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Although best fresh, it can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if needed to restore the sauce’s consistency.

Chef’s Advice

For the best results, opt for fresh shrimp as they provide the juiciest texture. You can enhance the flavor by incorporating a splash of white wine into the sauce, allowing it to simmer down slightly before adding the cream. Also, considering adding a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving amplifies the flavors beautifully.

Fun Flavor Ideas

Feel like switching things up? Here are a couple of ideas:

Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning instead of chili flakes for a bolder flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas while following the same cooking procedure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Q&A

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw completely before cooking.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work, though this will change the flavor profile.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor that’s perfect for vegan adaptations.
How do I avoid a grainy sauce?
Stir the sauce gently and avoid overheating after adding the cream.
How can I store leftovers nicely?
Make sure to cool the dish before refrigerating to prevent condensation and sogginess.

In conclusion, this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe invites you to enjoy a fusion of flavors that evoke warmth and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or gathering around the table with family, this dish is a delightful experience waiting to be shared. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations and join the community—happy cooking!