Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Published: October 9, 2025

by lara

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you can have this delicious meal on the table in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the dish, providing a rich and savory flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
Versatile Meal: Serve this dish on its own or pair it with vegetables for a complete meal that suits any palate.
Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this recipe fits every occasion seamlessly.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Pot
Measuring cups
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A non-stick skillet allows you to sauté the shrimp and prepare the creamy sauce without sticking.
Pot: Cooking rice in a pot ensures even heating for perfectly fluffy grains.
Measuring cups: Accurate measurements help maintain the right balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined
Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
Cream: 1 cup (or plant-based alternative)
Chicken broth: 1/2 cup

For the Rice

Rice: 1 cup (white, brown, or jasmine)
Water: 2 cups
Salt: to taste

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
In a pot, combine rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until fully cooked.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

Heat the skillet over medium heat and add some oil if needed.
Add minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant but not browned (about 1 minute).
Add the shrimp, cooking until they turn pink (about 3-4 minutes).

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in chicken broth, stirring well to combine with garlic and shrimp.
Gradually add cream, allowing it to simmer gently while stirring continuously for about 5 minutes until thickened.

Step 4: Serve It Up

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it between two plates.
Top each plate of rice generously with creamy garlic shrimp.
Garnish as desired (with herbs or spices), then enjoy your delicious Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways. It pairs beautifully with different sides and garnishes, enhancing the overall dining experience.

With Fresh Herbs

Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Cilantro Leaves: Add chopped cilantro for a zesty touch that complements the shrimp.

With a Side Salad

Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers adds freshness and crunch.
Caesar Salad: A creamy dressing and crunchy croutons create a classic pairing.

With Crispy Bread

Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Crusty Baguette: Enjoy slices of baguette to add a rustic touch to your meal.

With Lemon Wedges

Fresh Lemon Slices: Squeeze lemon over the dish just before eating for extra brightness.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Perfecting Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to elevate your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic enhance flavor significantly, making your dish more vibrant.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Cook shrimp until they turn pink but remain tender; overcooking can make them rubbery.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Start with small amounts of salt and pepper; you can always add more as needed.
Incorporate Flavorful Broths: Use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water when cooking rice for added depth.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Pairing side dishes with Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice can round out your meal nicely. Here are some great options:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli, carrots, or green beans add color and nutrients; lightly season them for extra taste.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers and tomatoes offers a refreshing contrast.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the shrimp’s richness.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the creaminess of the dish.
Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus spears are simple yet sophisticated; drizzle with olive oil before roasting.
Fried Plantains: Sweet fried plantains introduce sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly. To prevent them from becoming tough, watch the cooking time closely and remove them from heat as soon as they turn pink.
Using Cold Rice: Cold rice can make your dish less creamy. Always use freshly cooked or warm rice to ensure a smooth texture in your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice.
Ignoring Seasoning: Proper seasoning is key for flavor. Don’t skip on salt and pepper; taste as you go and adjust to enhance the flavors of your dish.
Skipping the Garlic: Garlic adds essential flavor. Be generous with it, but don’t burn it; add it at the right moment to keep its aroma vibrant.
Not Preparing Ingredients First: Preparation saves time. Chop and measure all ingredients before you start cooking to keep the process smooth and efficient.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
Best used within 1 month for optimal taste.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warmed through.
Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best rice for Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Using jasmine or basmati rice provides a fragrant base that complements the creamy sauce well.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results.

How can I customize Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and can be prepared in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute any dairy ingredients with plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or dairy-free butter.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. Give it a try and enjoy a comforting dish that’s sure to impress!

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