Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a rich, creamy sauce over a bed of fluffy rice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe showcases bold flavors and a satisfying texture. With its quick preparation time and simple ingredients, you can enjoy an impressive meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish takes only 25 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The creamy garlic sauce elevates the shrimp, offering a savory experience you won’t forget.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or even with crusty bread for dipping.
• Easy Cleanup: One pan is all you’ll need, meaning less time scrubbing dishes!
• Customizable: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition and color.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice, having the right tools makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing shrimp and creating the creamy garlic sauce in one go.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Ensure precise ingredient measurements for consistent results every time.
• Spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients without damaging your cookware.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced

For the Creamy Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook 2 cups of rice according to package instructions. Set aside when done.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook until they turn pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Pour in heavy cream and stir in garlic powder. Allow it to simmer until slightly thickened, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Season the sauce with salt and pepper as desired. Add cooked rice directly into the skillet with shrimp. Toss gently until everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 5: Serve It Up

Spoon the creamy garlic shrimp over bowls of rice. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Serving Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice can elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative ideas to present this dish beautifully and enhance its flavors.

Pair with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Add a side of steamed broccoli for a vibrant color and crunch.
• Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sauté spinach in olive oil for a nutritious and tasty complement.

Add a Zesty Salad

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lemon dressing balances the richness of the shrimp.
• Mixed Greens: Toss together mixed greens with a vinaigrette for a light, crisp side.

Enhance with Flavorful Sauces

• Chili Sauce: Drizzle chili sauce over the shrimp for those who enjoy a spicy kick.
• Lemon Butter Sauce: A simple lemon butter sauce can add tanginess and richness to the meal.

How to Perfect Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Perfecting your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is all about technique and fresh ingredients. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will enhance the flavor and texture compared to frozen ones.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Control the amount of cream based on your preference; use less for a lighter dish.
• Infuse Flavors Early: Sauté garlic until fragrant before adding other ingredients to maximize flavor.
• Cook Rice Separately: Make sure your rice is cooked separately to ensure it remains fluffy and absorbs the sauce well.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Pairing side dishes with your Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread complements the dish perfectly, ideal for soaking up extra sauce.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Roasted asparagus adds a nicely charred flavor that pairs well with shrimp.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers protein and fiber, making it a healthy accompaniment.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness that balances the creamy dish.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides crunch and brightness, cutting through the creaminess of the meal.
6. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous flavored with herbs can absorb the sauce while adding texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Avoiding overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments. Taste as you go and adjust the seasoning to enhance the flavor profile of your creamy garlic shrimp.
• Using low-quality ingredients. Fresh ingredients yield better results, so opt for high-quality shrimp and fresh garlic.
• Skipping prep work. Have all your ingredients measured and ready before starting to ensure a smooth cooking process.
• Ignoring the resting time. Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking to let the flavors meld together.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it cools down completely before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezing Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• You can freeze for up to 3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.

Reheating Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat in a covered dish for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals of 1 minute, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to restore creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to prepare shrimp for the Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
For the best results, clean and devein fresh shrimp before cooking.

How can I make this dish spicy?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking for a spicy kick.

Can I substitute chicken for shrimp in Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Yes, you can use cooked chicken pieces instead of shrimp for a different protein option.

What sides pair well with Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice?
Serve with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions!

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Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Creamy Garlic Shrimp with Rice is a delightful dish that brings together tender shrimp and a velvety garlic sauce served over a fluffy bed of rice. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests at special gatherings. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, you’ll find it becomes a go-to favorite in your culinary repertoire.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups cooked rice
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Cook the rice according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then add shrimp and cook until pink (about 3-4 minutes per side).
3. Reduce heat to low, pour in heavy cream and stir in garlic powder. Simmer until slightly thickened.
4. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Toss cooked rice into the skillet until well coated.
5. Serve in bowls garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Seafood

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 480
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 215mg

Keywords: For added nutrition, feel free to incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. If you prefer a lighter dish, reduce the amount of cream used.