The Ultimate Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Fluffy Basmati Rice
Experience the magic of succulent seafood bathed in a velvety, herb-infused sauce. This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is the ultimate comfort meal—fast enough for a weeknight, but elegant enough for a dinner party.
Why This Recipe Works
There is something undeniably irresistible about the combination of fresh garlic, heavy cream, and citrus zest. This dish balances richness with brightness, ensuring every bite of seared shrimp is perfectly seasoned and impossibly tender.
The Ingredients
- Large Shrimp (Peeled and Deveined): Large shrimp stay juicy during high-heat searing, providing the perfect protein-packed base.
- Fresh Garlic: Minced finely to release aromatic oils that form the heart of the flavor profile.
- Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious mouthfeel and binds the spices into a cohesive, silky sauce.
- Unsalted Butter: Essential for a nutty, rich finish that oil simply cannot replicate.
- Basmati Rice: Long-grain and aromatic, it acts as a flavor sponge for the cream sauce.
- Lemon Juice & Zest: Provides the bright acidity needed to cut through the buttery richness.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a peppery freshness and a vibrant visual appeal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Rinse 1 cup of Basmati rice until the water runs clear. Boil in 2 cups of salted water, then simmer covered for 12 minutes. Fluff with a fork for perfectly separated grains.
- Sear the Shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and season. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear for 2 minutes per side until opaque and golden. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pan, melt more butter and add minced garlic. Cook for 60 seconds until fragrant.
- Deglaze and Simmer: Add a splash of white wine (optional) or lemon juice. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer until the sauce thickens and coats a spoon.
- Combine: Toss the shrimp back into the garlic cream sauce. Garnish with lemon zest and freshly chopped parsley.
Pro Tip: Do not overcook the shrimp! Look for the “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O,” they have been on the heat too long. Always use room temperature cream to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Serving Suggestions
To complete this gourmet experience, serve the shrimp over a generous bed of rice. Pair with roasted asparagus or a crisp Chardonnay to highlight the citrus notes of the dish.