Irresistible Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever tasted a dish that transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary delight? Creamy garlic butter shrimp with steamed rice is one such recipe that brings together succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and fluffy rice, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. The moment you take a bite, the creamy sauce envelops your palate while the gentle aroma of garlic fills the air. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also elevates any dining experience.

This creamy delight is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner party or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. The combination of tender shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce served over perfectly steamed rice creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Get ready to savor this incredible dish that promises to be a new favorite in your kitchen.

Key Ingredients For Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp, preferably deveined and peeled for ease of cooking.
• Butter: Use unsalted butter for richer flavor control; it enhances the creamy texture.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves as they provide the best aromatic intensity and depth to the dish.
• Heavy Cream: This ingredient adds richness and creaminess to your sauce; opt for full-fat for the best results.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and a hint of freshness; chop it finely before adding.

For the Rice:

• Long-Grain Rice: Choose jasmine or basmati rice for their fragrant aroma and fluffy texture when cooked.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Prepare the Rice

Start by rinsing one cup of long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice with two cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes until all water is absorbed.

Second Step: Cook the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add minced garlic (around four cloves) and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Then add one pound of large shrimp to the skillet, cooking them for about three minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Third Step: Create the Sauce

Once the shrimp are cooked through, pour in half a cup of heavy cream while stirring constantly. Allow it to simmer gently for another two minutes, thickening slightly while mixing well with the garlic butter.

Fourth Step: Finish with Parsley

Remove the skillet from heat and stir in freshly chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every shrimp is coated with that delightful sauce.

Fifth Step: Serve

Fluff up your cooked rice with a fork and divide it among plates. Top each serving generously with creamy garlic butter shrimp.

Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch.

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh seafood and herbs to enhance flavor dramatically.
• Watch Cooking Times: Overcooking shrimp can lead to rubbery textures; cook just until they turn pink.
• Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, substitute half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

Preparation Steps

To create the perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice, follow these simple preparation steps for a delightful meal.

Start by gathering all your ingredients and ensure everything is fresh for the best flavor. Begin by peeling and deveining the shrimp; this process enhances both taste and texture. Next, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté until fragrant but not browned. This step infuses the dish with a rich garlicky aroma.

Once the garlic is aromatic, add the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook them for about two to three minutes until they turn pink on one side. Flip them over to cook another two minutes on the other side. This ensures that your shrimp remains juicy and tender.

After cooking the shrimp, pour in heavy cream and stir gently to combine all ingredients. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes while stirring occasionally. This creates a creamy sauce that perfectly coats each shrimp. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.

Meanwhile, prepare steamed rice as a side dish. Rinse long-grain rice under cold water until it runs clear, then cook according to package instructions or use a rice cooker for convenience. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Serve your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp over a bed of warm steamed rice for an enticing presentation that promises satisfaction in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, consider these serving suggestions for your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice:

Enhance your dish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro sprinkled on top to add color and freshness. A wedge of lemon on the side can also brighten flavors, offering a tangy contrast to the creamy sauce.

Pair your meal with seasonal vegetables such as steamed broccoli or asparagus to complement the richness of the shrimp. These vegetables not only add nutrition but also provide a delightful crunch.

Lastly, serve with crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover creamy sauce—a delicious way to enjoy every bit of flavor from your dish.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice, store them properly to maintain quality and taste. Place any uneaten shrimp and rice in an airtight container within two hours of cooking. Proper storage helps prevent bacterial growth.

Keep your leftovers refrigerated for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if necessary to keep it moist and creamy.

Freezing is another option if you want to save portions for later meals. However, be aware that freezing may alter the texture of the shrimp slightly upon thawing.

To enjoy later meals at their best, consume frozen leftovers within three months.

Presentation Ideas

This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Garlic Bread: The perfect accompaniment that complements the garlic flavor in the shrimp.
• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad adds freshness and balances out the richness of this dish.
• White Wine: A chilled glass enhances flavors beautifully while making dining more sophisticated.

FAQs

What type of shrimp is best for Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp?

When preparing Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice, opt for large or jumbo shrimp for maximum flavor and tenderness. Fresh shrimp will provide better texture than frozen varieties; however, if using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. Look for shrimp labeled as “wild-caught” for superior taste compared to farmed options.

Can I make Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp without heavy cream?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter version of Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Steamed Rice, consider substitutes like half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. While these alternatives may alter flavor slightly, they still produce a deliciously creamy sauce without being overly rich.

How do I know when my shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp cook quickly; they are done when they turn opaque and pink throughout. Avoid overcooking as this can lead to rubbery texture. A good rule is approximately two to three minutes per side based on size; larger shrimp may require additional time but keep an eye on color change as an indicator of doneness.

What can I serve alongside Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs excellently with sides like steamed vegetables or roasted potatoes that provide balance without overpowering flavors. Additionally, crusty bread works well for soaking up excess sauce while mixed greens offer freshness that complements richness wonderfully—making them excellent choices alongside this delightful meal.