There’s something inherently comforting about a warm, satisfying rice bowl at the end of a long day—especially one topped with succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend dinner, this dish has the power to transform simple ingredients into a meal that feels indulgent and special. The inspiration for this recipe came from evenings when I wanted a fuss-free dinner that still packed bold flavor. I wanted something that could go from stove to table quickly, with minimal cleanup but maximum satisfaction. That’s when the idea of a one pan creamy garlic butter shrimp rice bowl was born—a combination of tender shrimp, fragrant garlic, silky cream, and perfectly cooked rice all in a single pan.

One pan meals are magical for weeknight cooking because they simplify the process, yet they feel thoughtful and comforting. This recipe is proof that quick dinners don’t have to compromise flavor or presentation. In fact, the shrimp’s natural sweetness, combined with the luxurious garlic butter sauce, creates a dish that’s both homey and impressive. Imagine scooping a bite of creamy rice with a perfectly seared shrimp on top, drizzled with the sauce, and finished with a hint of fresh lemon and parsley. That’s dinner perfection in a single bowl.

This recipe is versatile enough for meal prep but also elegant enough to serve to guests. Whether you’re feeding your family, enjoying a cozy solo dinner, or hosting friends for a casual night in, this shrimp rice bowl delivers. Its creamy texture, garlic-forward flavor, and simplicity make it one of those recipes you’ll come back to again and again.

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Why This One Pan Shrimp Rice Bowl Works So Well

This dish works so well because it hits every element of a satisfying dinner: flavor, texture, and convenience. The shrimp are tender and juicy, the rice absorbs the rich buttery sauce, and the garlic adds depth and aroma that makes every bite irresistible. Cooking everything in one pan allows the flavors to meld naturally. The butter and garlic infuse the rice as it cooks, while the shrimp finish in the creamy sauce, locking in moisture and flavor.

Another reason this recipe is a winner is its flexibility. You can add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to make it a more complete meal. You can swap the rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice if you prefer a lower-carb option. You can also adjust the level of spice by adding red pepper flakes or keeping it mild for a family-friendly dinner. It’s a recipe designed to adapt to your tastes, yet it never loses its signature creamy, garlicky magic.

The beauty of a one pan meal is also in the ease of cleanup. Only one skillet, one cutting board, and a single serving dish are needed, making it perfect for those nights when you want delicious food without a mountain of dishes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need for this craveable, creamy garlic butter shrimp rice bowl:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

These ingredients come together to create a creamy, savory, and slightly tangy base that perfectly complements the natural sweetness of shrimp. The Parmesan-style cheese enhances the sauce, making it even more indulgent, while parsley and lemon add freshness to balance the richness.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Let the butter melt and coat the bottom of the pan.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to let it brown or burn.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, allowing it to toast slightly in the butter and garlic for about 1 minute. This step enhances the rice’s flavor and helps it absorb the sauce later.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Cover the pan, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid too often, as this can affect cooking time.
7. Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until creamy and luscious.
8. Add the grated Parmesan-style cheese and stir until melted and smooth, creating a velvety sauce.
9. Return the shrimp to the pan along with the lemon juice. Gently fold to combine, warming the shrimp through without overcooking.
10. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

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Serving Suggestions

Serve this creamy garlic butter shrimp over rice directly from the skillet for a rustic and comforting presentation. Pair it with simple sides like steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad to add freshness and balance to the rich sauce. For a heartier meal, add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or even roasted cherry tomatoes. Warm bread or dinner rolls are also perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

This dish is just as great as leftovers—store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to restore the creamy texture of the sauce.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Shrimp Every Time

• Use large shrimp: They cook quickly and stay tender without becoming rubbery.
• Pat shrimp dry before cooking: Excess moisture prevents proper searing.
• Add shrimp last: This ensures they remain juicy and tender.
• Toast rice briefly: Enhances flavor and helps it absorb the sauce.
• Gently stir cream: Avoid boiling to prevent separating the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning at the end: Cream and cheese can mellow flavors, so taste before serving.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely. Frozen shrimp are convenient and often flash-frozen at peak freshness. Thaw them completely in cold water for 15–20 minutes before cooking, then pat dry to avoid steaming instead of searing. Once thawed, follow the recipe exactly as written for best results.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe. Jasmine rice works well for a slightly fragrant flavor. Short-grain rice can be used but will result in a softer texture. Brown rice can be substituted but requires a longer cooking time and slightly more liquid.

Can I make this lighter?

Yes. Replace half of the heavy cream with milk or light cooking cream. Reduce butter slightly, increase herbs, garlic, and lemon juice to maintain flavor. Adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers makes it lighter while still filling.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best fresh. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess. Avoid overheating shrimp to prevent them from becoming tough.

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Creative Variations

• Vegetable boost: Add spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for a bolder flavor.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in a spoonful of cream cheese for an even richer sauce.
• Herb variations: Use basil, chives, or tarragon in place of parsley for a fresh flavor change.
• Rice alternatives: Try quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice for a unique spin.

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Final Thoughts

This craveable one pan creamy garlic butter shrimp rice bowl is the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. It takes everyday ingredients and transforms them into a meal that feels indulgent and restaurant-quality, yet it’s simple enough for a busy weeknight. The one-pan method makes it accessible to cooks of all skill levels, while the creamy sauce and tender shrimp create flavors that are both comforting and sophisticated.

What makes this recipe truly remarkable is its versatility. You can customize the dish with your favorite vegetables, adjust seasonings to suit your family’s tastes, and even swap out rice for other grains. Despite its adaptability, the essence of the dish—rich, garlicky, buttery, and satisfying shrimp—remains unchanged. Each bite delivers a comforting warmth that makes you feel cared for and nourished.

This recipe also embodies the beauty of home cooking. It’s efficient, flavorful, and approachable, making it easy to enjoy a delicious, balanced meal without stress. There’s joy in watching the creamy sauce coat each grain of rice and in hearing the sizzle of shrimp as it cooks to perfection.

Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner solution, a meal to impress guests, or a versatile recipe to include in your meal prep rotation, this creamy garlic butter shrimp rice bowl delivers. It’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again, confident that it will always bring satisfaction, warmth, and a touch of culinary magic to your table.

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