The Best Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice Recipe

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about a meal that brings together bold flavors, tender textures, and a touch of elegance—all in one bowl. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is exactly that kind of meal. Juicy shrimp are seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over fluffy herb-infused rice, making each bite buttery, aromatic, and deeply comforting.

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without much effort. The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and fresh herbs transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality experience you can whip up in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The garlic butter melts into the rice, infusing it with savory goodness, while the shrimp remain juicy and plump. Herb rice adds a fragrant lift that balances the richness of the butter sauce. It’s a one-bowl wonder that tastes like you spent hours on it.

This recipe is also adaptable. You can easily swap in brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice to make it fit your dietary needs. Add veggies like asparagus, peas, or spinach to round it out. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a dinner guest, this dish makes an impressive yet fuss-free meal.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For the best flavor and texture, opt for large or jumbo raw shrimp that have been peeled and deveined. You can use fresh or frozen, but if using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Tail-on shrimp look beautiful for presentation, but tail-off shrimp make eating easier. Either works—just go with what you prefer.

Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

Every ingredient in this dish has a purpose—from building bold flavor to adding freshness. This combination makes each bite a perfect balance of richness and zest.

• Shrimp
  You’ll need large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Shrimp are the star of this dish, so fresh quality makes a big difference.
• Butter
  Unsalted butter forms the base of the sauce, giving the dish its signature richness and depth.
• Garlic
  Fresh minced garlic is essential here. It’s what gives the butter sauce its savory aroma and bold kick.
• Lemon Juice
  A squeeze of lemon cuts through the richness of the butter and adds brightness to the shrimp.
• Parsley
  Fresh chopped parsley adds color and freshness, and enhances the herbaceous layer of the rice.
• Cooked Rice
  White jasmine or basmati rice works beautifully. The rice acts as a base to soak up all that buttery, garlicky goodness.
• Mixed Herbs
  Think thyme, dill, or basil. These herbs infuse the rice with subtle flavors and make the bowl feel elevated.
• Olive Oil
  Just a little is used to help cook the shrimp evenly and add some richness.
• Salt & Pepper
  For seasoning and enhancing the natural flavors of the shrimp and rice.

How To Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice

Step 1: Cook the Herb Rice

Prepare your rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, stir in chopped herbs like parsley, thyme, or dill. Season lightly with salt and pepper and set aside covered to stay warm.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil. Once shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Stir constantly until fragrant, about 1 minute. Squeeze in lemon juice and stir to combine.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Return the shrimp to the pan and toss them in the garlic butter until well coated. To serve, spoon the herb rice into bowls, top with shrimp, and drizzle any extra garlic butter on top. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon if desired.

How to Serve and Store Your Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

This recipe yields enough to serve two to three people generously, making it ideal for a cozy date night or an easy family dinner. The buttery garlic sauce stays luscious, and the herb rice remains tender and aromatic even after resting for a bit.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or extra butter to refresh the sauce and rice.

What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl?

Sautéed Asparagus

Lightly sautéed asparagus with a touch of lemon pairs beautifully with the shrimp and adds a pop of green to your plate.

Cucumber Tomato Salad

A refreshing side that adds crunch and acidity, perfect for balancing the rich buttery shrimp.

Roasted Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with buttery bread to mop up every last drop of that sauce.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Oven-roasted Brussels sprouts bring a slightly bitter, crunchy contrast that complements the soft shrimp and rice.

White Wine or Sparkling Water

Whether you’re celebrating or just elevating dinner, a chilled drink can complete the experience.

Grilled Zucchini

Sliced zucchini grilled until tender adds a smoky element without overpowering the main dish.

Mango Salsa

For a fruity, spicy twist, top your bowl with fresh mango salsa for contrast and brightness.

Fried Plantains

Crispy, sweet fried plantains are a delightful tropical pairing that adds a whole new flavor layer.

Want More Shrimp Bowl Ideas?

If you loved this Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl, here are a few other seafood bowls that bring big flavor and fun twists:

• Try this summery Grilled Shrimp Bowl with Avocado Corn Salsa & Creamy Sauce for a creamy, zesty combination.
• This Shrimp and Avocado Bowl with Mango Salsa & Lime Chili Sauce adds bold spice and juicy tropical sweetness.
• If you’re craving something cozier, the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna takes shrimp to indulgent comfort food territory.
• For a low-carb twist, check out the Fried Cabbage with Shrimp & Sausage that’s both hearty and satisfying.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so it’s easy to find the next time you need a weeknight winner.

Did you try it with brown rice or a different herb mix? Add a little chili for spice? I’d love to hear how you personalized it.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next crave-worthy creation.

Conclusion

The Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl with Herb Rice is a must-try for anyone who loves simple ingredients that taste like so much more. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. With garlicky richness, vibrant herbs, and tender shrimp, this bowl brings restaurant vibes right to your home kitchen.

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