Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice

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Golden, garlicky shrimp nestled beside a fragrant mound of creamy herb rice – this dish is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the taste buds. Every bite brings together the succulence of juicy shrimp, the silkiness of buttery garlic sauce, and the freshness of bright herbs. It’s hearty enough for dinner yet light enough for a sunny weekend lunch.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl is the perfect example of how simple ingredients can transform into something extraordinary. In under 30 minutes, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that bursts with flavor and leaves you wondering why you ever ordered takeout.

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What Kind of Shrimp Works Best for This Bowl?

Large or jumbo shrimp are the best choice for this recipe. They hold up well to high-heat searing and have a meaty bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy rice. Fresh shrimp bring the sweetest flavor, but high-quality frozen shrimp (thawed properly) work wonderfully too. Leaving the tails on adds flavor and a touch of elegance.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice

• Large or Jumbo Shrimp – The star protein, juicy and full of flavor.
• Butter – Creates the rich, velvety garlic sauce.
• Garlic – Infuses the dish with its aromatic punch.
• Olive Oil – Helps the shrimp sear beautifully.
• Cooked White Rice – The base that soaks up all the buttery goodness.
• Heavy Cream – Adds silkiness to the herb rice.
• Fresh Herbs (parsley, cilantro, or dill) – For freshness and brightness.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Juicy pops of acidity to balance richness.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasoning.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a gentle heat.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Creamy Herb Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice Base

Cook your preferred white rice until fluffy. In a saucepan, warm heavy cream over low heat, stir in chopped fresh herbs, and season with salt and pepper. Fold the cream mixture gently into the rice to create a rich, fragrant base.

Step 2: Season and Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like some heat.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat a skillet over medium-high and add olive oil. Once shimmering, lay the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and slightly charred.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and let it melt, then stir in minced garlic. Sauté just until fragrant (about 30 seconds), being careful not to burn it.

Step 5: Combine and Assemble

Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated. Serve over the creamy herb rice with a handful of halved cherry tomatoes and extra herbs for garnish.

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Serving and Storing the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

This bowl is best served immediately while the shrimp are hot and the rice is creamy. For a fresh touch, garnish with extra herbs and a squeeze of lemon just before serving. If storing, place the shrimp and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw them completely in the fridge or under cold running water before cooking.

What herbs work best in the rice?

Parsley, dill, and cilantro are all excellent choices, but feel free to use your favorite fresh herbs.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Substitute the butter with a vegan butter alternative and use coconut milk instead of heavy cream.

How can I make it spicier?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter.

Can I swap the rice for another base?

Yes. Quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice are great alternatives.

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Want More Seafood Bowl Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl, you might love these other flavorful creations from Life with Jam:

• Best Marinated Grilled Shrimp for smoky, charred goodness.
• Pan-Fried Salmon with Garlic Butter Sauce for a crispy, golden crust.
• Cajun Shrimp Scampi for a spicy, buttery twist.
• Healthy Mediterranean Salmon Dinner for a fresh and wholesome plate.
• Slow Cooker Southern Shrimp Boil for a fun, shareable feast.

For more delicious inspiration, check out my Pinterest Life with Jam where I share daily recipes.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest seafood board so you can revisit it anytime.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you keep the tails on? Did you add extra garlic or a squeeze of lemon? Share your photos and tips in the comments so we can all enjoy each other’s twists on this dish.

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