This creamy garlic butter shrimp bowl is a tasty treat! It features plump shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce served over fluffy herb rice. Yum!
Honestly, the aroma alone is amazing! I like to make a big batch so I can enjoy it for lunch, too. Nothing beats a bowl of delicious shrimp goodness! 🍤
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for this dish. If shrimp is not available, you can substitute with scallops or even chicken pieces, though the cooking time may vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best to control the saltiness. If you need a dairy-free option, try using olive oil or coconut oil instead for a different flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce its rich and creamy texture. You can substitute it with half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter or dairy-free version. Just note that the texture may be slightly different.
Chicken Broth/White Wine: Both add depth to the sauce. If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, stick with chicken broth or vegetable broth. Just a splash of vinegar can also work if you need acidity.
Herbs: Dried Italian herbs work well, but feel free to use fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or cilantro if you have them. They add a fresh taste that elevates the dish!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Shrimp?
Sautéing shrimp can be quick if done right. Here’s how to achieve tender, juicy shrimp without overcooking:
- Preheat your skillet to medium heat before adding butter. This ensures even cooking.
- Cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for them to turn pink and opaque, indicating they’re done.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary to avoid steaming them.
- If you’re unsure, cut one to check that it’s not translucent, and remove them from heat as soon as they’re done. Shrimp cook quickly!
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly sautéed shrimp every time!
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl With Herb Rice
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (or a mix of basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Herb Rice:
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (optional)
- Olive oil (optional, for cooking rice or shrimp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 30 minutes in total: around 10 minutes for prep work and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll have a creamy, comforting shrimp bowl ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Herb Rice:
Start by cooking the white rice according to the package instructions. Once cooked, fluff it gently with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and chives (if using). Set the rice aside to keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells wonderful and fragrant without letting it brown.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, and the dried Italian herbs. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate.
4. Create the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any tasty, browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens just a little. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
6. Combine Shrimp and Sauce:
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them gently to coat with the creamy garlic butter sauce, warming them through for about a minute.
7. Serve It Up:
To serve, scoop a generous portion of the herb rice into a bowl. Top it off with the creamy garlic butter shrimp and sauce. Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley for a nice touch!
8. Enjoy!
Dig into your flavorful and comforting shrimp bowl right away! Every bite is sure to be a hit.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the frozen shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the fridge overnight or placing them in a sealed bag and submerging them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option or a dairy-free alternative, you can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream like coconut cream. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the shrimp and sauce in advance, then store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, and prepare the herb rice fresh when you’re ready to serve to maintain the best texture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
