Tender shrimp simmered in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce and served over fluffy rice makes this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Herb Sauce and Rice an easy, satisfying dinner. The combination of garlic, butter, herbs, and Parmesan creates a silky sauce that coats every shrimp beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes, optional
For the Creamy Herb Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or seafood broth
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped, optional
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Rice
- 1½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
Add the rice, water or broth, butter, and salt to a saucepan.
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Remove from the heat and let it rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
2. Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
Toss until evenly coated.
3. Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet.
Add the minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds, stirring constantly.
Pour in the broth and heavy cream.
Stir well, scraping up any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–4 minutes.
5. Add Parmesan and Herbs
Lower the heat and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese.
Add the Italian seasoning, parsley, and basil if using.
Continue stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Stir in the lemon juice and taste for seasoning.
6. Return the Shrimp
Place the cooked shrimp back into the skillet.
Gently toss them in the creamy garlic butter sauce and simmer for 1–2 minutes so they can absorb the flavors.
Avoid cooking too long, as shrimp can quickly become tough.
7. Serve
Spoon fluffy rice onto serving plates or bowls.
Top generously with the creamy garlic butter shrimp and plenty of sauce.
Finish with fresh parsley, a little Parmesan, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Tips for the Best Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They only need a few minutes.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce.
- Keep the sauce at a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil.
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to help them sear properly.
- For extra garlic flavor, add another clove or two.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of broth or milk.
- For a stronger herb flavor, use a combination of parsley, basil, and thyme.
Optional Additions
Make this dish your own by adding:
- Baby spinach
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
- Asparagus
- Extra Parmesan
- Crushed red pepper flakes
What to Serve With It
Although the rice makes this a complete meal, it pairs nicely with:
- Garlic bread
- Steamed broccoli
- Roasted asparagus
- Green salad
- Sautéed green beans
- Roasted vegetables
Storage
Store leftover shrimp, sauce, and rice in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently over low to medium heat. Add a small splash of broth or cream to the sauce if it has thickened.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Category: Dinner
Cuisine: American / Italian-Inspired
Method: Skillet + Stovetop