Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Rice for Quick Weeknight Bliss Recipe
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4.9 from 5 reviews
This Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Rice recipe is a quick and comforting weeknight meal featuring tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic-infused creamy sauce served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice. Perfect for a fast, flavorful dinner that feels indulgent yet easy to prepare.
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Ingredients
Shrimp
1 pound Large Shrimp, thawed if frozen
Rice
1 cup Jasmine or Basmati Rice
Broth
2 cups Chicken Broth
Flavor
3 cloves Fresh Garlic, minced
2 tablespoons Butter
1 cup Heavy Cream
1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese, grated
1 tablespoon Lemon Juice
1/2 teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the rice: Rinse the jasmine or basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and keep covered.
Cook the shrimp: While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
Make the creamy sauce: Lower the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine with the garlic and shrimp drippings. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the cream slightly thickens. Stir in the grated parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Spoon the cooked rice onto plates and top generously with the creamy garlic shrimp. Serve immediately for a delicious and comforting meal.
Notes
Use thawed frozen shrimp for convenience and quicker cooking.
Brown rice can be used instead of jasmine or basmati for a healthier option but will require longer cooking time.
Vegetable broth can substitute chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly variation (omit shrimp to keep vegetarian).
Butter can be replaced with olive oil to lighten the dish.
Heavy cream can be swapped with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version.
Parmesan cheese can be substituted with nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.
Lemon juice can be replaced with lime juice if preferred.
Red pepper flakes add heat, but cayenne pepper can be used for more spice.
Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
