Description
Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Rice Bowls are a quick and flavorful dinner option featuring tender shrimp seasoned with garlic, oregano, and paprika, sautéed to perfection and tossed with melted Parmesan cheese. Served over fluffy white or brown rice and garnished with fresh parsley, this dish offers a creamy, savory meal ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Rice
- 1 cup white rice (or brown rice, for a healthier option)
- 2 cups water or chicken broth (for extra flavor)
Optional Ingredients for Creaminess
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, for a creamier sauce)
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (for extra creaminess)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes or according to package instructions until tender.
- Fluff and Butter the Rice: Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the butter if using. Set aside to keep warm.
- Prepare the Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the shrimp.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Season and Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked through.
- Add Parmesan Cheese to Shrimp: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp. Toss gently to coat and allow the cheese to melt evenly.
- Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly between four bowls.
- Top with Shrimp: Spoon the garlic Parmesan shrimp over the rice in each bowl.
- Add Creamy Finish (Optional): Drizzle a little heavy cream and sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese over the top for a richer, creamier sauce if desired.
- Garnish and Serve: Finish each bowl by garnishing with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy the full flavors.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier, higher-fiber option, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Use chicken broth instead of water to add more flavor to the rice.
- The butter and heavy cream are optional but add richness to the dish for a creamier texture.
- Be careful not to overcook shrimp to maintain tenderness and juiciness.
- Fresh parsley adds a nice color contrast and fresh herbal note but can be omitted if unavailable.
- This recipe can be easily doubled to serve more people.
