Name: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb 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 olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water or broth; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Zest of 1 lemon

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This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a true delight, combining succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce served over a bed of fragrant herb rice. It's the kind of dish that comes together quickly but still feels luxurious enough for a satisfying weeknight dinner. The blend of flavors from the shrimp and the freshness of the herbs in the rice make each bite absolutely irresistible.

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

2 tablespoons olive oil

4 cloves garlic, minced

¼ cup unsalted butter

¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup jasmine rice

2 cups water or broth

1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped

1 tablespoon lemon juice

Zest of 1 lemon

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

Directions

Start by preparing the rice. In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice and water or broth. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Once done, stir in the parsley, thyme, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Set it aside.

While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden brown.

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce. Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.

To serve, place the herb rice in bowls and top it with the garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Variations

Spicy Shrimp: If I’m in the mood for extra heat, I’ll increase the red pepper flakes or even add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.

Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian twist, I’ll swap the shrimp for sautéed mushrooms, which absorb the garlic butter flavor beautifully.

Rice Alternatives: Instead of jasmine rice, I sometimes use basmati rice or even quinoa for a lighter option.

Extra Vegetables: To make this dish even more wholesome, I’ll toss in some sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for added greens.

Storage/Reheating

If there are any leftovers, I’ll store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When it comes to reheating, I simply pop it in the microwave or reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to bring the garlic butter sauce back to life. The shrimp might not have the same fresh texture, but the flavors will still shine.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes! I often use frozen shrimp, just be sure to thaw them properly before cooking to avoid any excess moisture in the skillet.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, so you don’t need to make any changes to keep it safe for a gluten-free diet.

Can I make the rice ahead of time?

Absolutely! I sometimes prepare the rice in advance and store it in the fridge. When I’m ready to serve, I just reheat it and add the herbs and lemon juice.

What other herbs can I use in place of thyme?

I like using fresh basil or oregano in place of thyme. Both add a nice flavor profile that pairs well with the shrimp.

Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes! For a dairy-free version, I would swap the butter for olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Conclusion

This creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl with herb rice is the perfect combination of rich, savory shrimp and fragrant, zesty rice. It’s simple to prepare, bursting with flavor, and great for a weeknight dinner that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether I’m serving it for my family or preparing a solo meal, it always hits the spot. If you’re looking for a quick yet elegant meal, this recipe is a must-try!

Recipe:

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

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

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Description

This creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl combines tender shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce with fragrant herb rice. It's quick, flavorful, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Instructions

In a medium saucepan, combine jasmine rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Stir in parsley, thyme, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Set aside.
While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until garlic is fragrant and golden brown.
Return shrimp to the skillet and toss in garlic butter. Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
To serve, place herb rice in bowls and top with garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges, if desired.