Here is a simple, creamy shrimp dish with rice you can make in about 15 minutes.
introduction
This recipe makes a quick, creamy garlic butter shrimp served with steamed white rice. It uses few ingredients and cooks fast. If you like simple comfort food, this works well. You can also check a similar creamy dish for ideas: Creamy Smothered Chicken and Rice.
why make this recipe
You should make this recipe because it is fast and tasty. It uses pantry staples like garlic, butter, and cream. The shrimp cook in minutes and you get a rich sauce to pour over rice. This is great for weeknights or when you want a filling meal without much work.
how to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice
- Cook the rice first and keep it warm. For tips on steaming rice, see these simple Filipino steamed rice tips.
- Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until you smell it. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan if you use it. Let the sauce simmer 2–3 minutes until it thickens a bit.
- Put the shrimp back in the pan and simmer 1–2 more minutes, tossing so the shrimp get coated in the sauce.
- Serve the shrimp and sauce next to the rice. Sprinkle parsley and a little black pepper on top.
Ingredients :
- 250g (9 oz) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp grated parmesan (optional)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 cup cooked white rice (jasmine or basmati)
Directions :
- Prepare rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Heat oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in cream and parmesan (if using). Simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return shrimp to the pan and simmer for 1-2 more minutes, tossing to coat.
- Plate shrimp and creamy sauce next to a serving of rice. Garnish with parsley and black pepper.
how to serve Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice
Serve the shrimp hot with a scoop of steamed rice. Spoon extra sauce over the rice. Add a wedge of lemon if you like a bright taste. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables go well with this dish.
how to store Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice
Cool leftovers quickly and put them in an airtight container. Keep in the fridge up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in short bursts in the microwave. Do not freeze the cream sauce; it can separate when thawed.
tips to make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice
- Use large shrimp for a better bite and faster cook time.
- Do not overcook shrimp. They turn rubbery if you cook too long.
- Heat the pan well so shrimp get a little color.
- If the sauce is too thin, simmer for a minute more to reduce. If too thick, add a splash of milk or broth.
- For more garlic-butter ideas, see this recipe for garlic butter beef bites: High Protein Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites.
variation (if any)
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Swap parmesan for a little cream cheese for a richer sauce.
- Use shrimp with shells on for more flavor, then peel before eating.
- Serve over pasta instead of rice for a different meal.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before cooking. This helps them brown well.
Q: Can I skip the cream?
A: You can use a mix of milk and a bit of flour to thicken, but the sauce will be less rich.
Q: Is parmesan required?
A: No. Parmesan adds flavor and helps thicken, but the sauce is still good without it.
Q: How long do I cook the rice?
A: Follow the package directions. Use the right water ratio for jasmine or basmati rice.
Conclusion
If you want another creamy garlic shrimp idea, check this version for more inspiration: Creamy Garlic Shrimp – Ahead of Thyme.

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice
Ingredients
Method
- Prepare rice according to package instructions and keep warm.
- Season shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium and add minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and parmesan if using. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Put shrimp back in the pan and simmer for 1-2 more minutes, tossing to coat in the sauce.
- Plate shrimp with the creamy sauce next to a serving of rice.
- Garnish with parsley and black pepper.