Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice: A Luxurious One-Pan Dinner

When you’re craving something indulgent yet easy, this Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice hits every note. Tender, juicy shrimp coated in a luscious garlic cream sauce and served over fluffy rice — it’s the kind of comforting, restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes. I once swapped the cream for coconut milk for a dairy-free twist, and it added a lovely tropical richness without losing that velvety texture. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests, this dish delivers flavor, convenience, and comfort in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love how quickly this dish comes together while still feeling special. It’s a complete meal made in one pan, combining tender shrimp, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked rice. The garlic-infused cream adds depth, while the shrimp stay juicy and flavorful. It’s rich yet balanced — the kind of dish that tastes indulgent without being heavy. Plus, it’s versatile — you can add vegetables, switch up the rice, or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.

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Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Shrimp – Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal. They cook quickly and soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.

Garlic – Fresh minced garlic adds aromatic depth and infuses the sauce with irresistible flavor.

Butter – Adds richness and helps brown the shrimp for extra flavor.

Olive Oil – Keeps the butter from burning and balances the richness.

Heavy Cream – Creates the luscious, velvety sauce. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or coconut milk.

Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding a salty, nutty undertone.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth – Helps thin the sauce and infuse it with savory notes.

Cooked Rice – The perfect base for soaking up all that creamy garlic goodness. White rice, jasmine, or even brown rice all work well.

Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the cream.

Parsley – Freshly chopped parsley adds color and freshness to the final dish.

Salt and Black Pepper – Simple seasonings that bring everything together.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional) – Add a subtle kick for those who like a touch of heat.

Directions

Start by cooking the rice according to package instructions so it’s ready when the shrimp and sauce are done. In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed, then add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant — be careful not to burn it. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up any bits stuck to the pan. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.

Return the shrimp to the pan and toss to coat them in the sauce. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Serve immediately over warm rice, spooning extra sauce over the top. Garnish with more parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Equipment needed :

Must-Have Tools to Get Rolling

Here’s what you’ll want to have on hand:

Silicone Spatula – Durable, heat-resistant silicone spatula perfect for mixing, scraping, and spreading. Gentle on non-stick cookware and easy to clean.

Large pot – You’ll need this to boil the whole cabbage head and soften the leaves.

large bowl –Spacious, durable large bowl ideal for mixing, serving, or food preparation. Made from sturdy material and easy to clean.

Sharp knife – For coring the cabbage and slicing out the thick stem in each leaf. A paring knife works best.

Mixing bowl – A big bowl makes it easier to combine your meat and rice filling evenly.

Cutting board – For prepping cabbage leaves and rolling them like a pro.

9×13-inch baking dish – Ideal size to fit your rolled cabbage leaves snugly and prevent them from unraveling.

knife – A sharp, durable kitchen knife perfect for slicing, chopping, and dicing with ease.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes total — 10 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for cooking. It’s ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Variations and Customizations

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice: Skip the cream for a lighter version with garlic butter and lemon.

Coconut Cream Shrimp: Substitute coconut milk for the heavy cream for a tropical twist.

Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika for a bolder, spicier flavor.

Vegetable Add-In: Toss in spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes during the last few minutes for color and nutrition.

Cheesy Upgrade: Add shredded mozzarella or Gruyère cheese for an extra creamy texture.

Herb Lovers’ Version: Add fresh basil, thyme, or chives to the sauce for an aromatic finish.

Whole Grain Option: Serve the shrimp and sauce over brown rice, quinoa, or farro for extra fiber.

Low-Carb Version: Swap rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.

Lemon Garlic Delight: Increase the lemon juice and zest for a brighter, zesty flavor.

Surf & Turf Style: Add small pieces of cooked chicken or bacon for a hearty twist.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, use olive oil instead of butter and coconut milk instead of cream.

How do I prevent the shrimp from overcooking?

Cook them just until pink and opaque — about 2 minutes per side.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the very end to warm through without overcooking.

Can I substitute the rice?

Absolutely — try pasta, mashed potatoes, or quinoa instead.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer a bit longer or add extra Parmesan cheese.

Can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

What type of shrimp works best?

Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, give the best texture and flavor.

How long does it keep?

Up to 3 days in the refrigerator — it reheats beautifully.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the sauce and shrimp separately, then combine and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is the ultimate comfort meal — rich, satisfying, and full of flavor. The creamy garlic sauce perfectly coats the tender shrimp, while the rice soaks up every drop of goodness. It’s quick enough for a busy weeknight yet elegant enough for entertaining guests. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite ingredients, this dish promises to become a go-to in your recipe collection. One bite, and you’ll see why creamy garlic shrimp is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress.

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