Creamy Shrimp and Rice Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners

Welcome to a delicious journey into the world of creamy shrimp and rice recipes! This dish is a perfect blend of succulent shrimp and rich, velvety sauce served over fluffy rice, creating a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with guests, creamy shrimp and rice offers a balance of flavors that will delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.

The best part about this recipe is its versatility. You can customize the creaminess, spice level, and even the type of rice used, making it suitable for all kinds of dietary preferences.

Plus, it’s packed with protein and wholesome ingredients, making it a nutritious choice for any season. Ready to dive into the details and cook your own creamy shrimp and rice masterpiece?

Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy shrimp and rice recipe checks all the boxes for a home-cooked favorite. It’s quick, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it ideal for busy weeknights.

The shrimp stays tender and juicy, while the creamy sauce adds a luxurious texture without being overly heavy. Plus, the dish is adaptable — you can add veggies, swap out types of rice, or adjust spices to suit your preferences.

Another reason to love this recipe is how it brings together simple ingredients to create something special. From the first bite, you’ll enjoy the harmonious blend of garlic, herbs, and cream that perfectly complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness.

Whether you’re a seafood lover or new to cooking shrimp, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Juice of half a lemon

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Medium saucepan with lid (for cooking rice)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Grater (for Parmesan cheese)
• Colander (for rinsing shrimp)

Instructions

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered.
2. Cook the shrimp: While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Sauté for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Make the creamy sauce: Pour in 1/2 cup chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine shrimp and sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat everything through.
6. Finish with fresh flavors: Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish, and sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
7. Serve: Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and serve topped with the creamy shrimp mixture. Enjoy immediately!

Tips & Variations

For perfectly cooked shrimp, avoid overcooking — they should be just pink and opaque.

• Use different rice types: Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, peas, or diced bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: Increase red pepper flakes or add cayenne pepper for a spicier version.
• Dairy-free option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.
• Herbs: Swap parsley for basil or cilantro depending on your flavor preference.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This creamy shrimp and rice dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus. For a full meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or warm dinner rolls.

To complement the creamy texture, a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works beautifully.

For a lighter side, try a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with lemon and olive oil. These sides will enhance the dish without overpowering the delicate shrimp flavors.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or just starting out, this creamy shrimp and rice recipe is a fantastic way to bring elegance and comfort to your dining table. It’s a crowd-pleaser that combines the richness of a creamy sauce with the satisfying texture of perfectly cooked shrimp and rice.

Plus, its adaptability means you can tailor it to fit your taste or dietary needs.

We hope this recipe inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and make this dish your own. For more delicious seafood and creamy dishes, check out our Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta, Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo, and Lemon Herb Salmon with Rice Pilaf.

Happy cooking!

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