Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Scampi with garlic parmesan rice is the perfect balance of elegance and comfort. Tender, juicy shrimp are sautéed in a garlicky butter sauce, then paired with creamy, flavorful parmesan rice that soaks up every drop of the savory juices. It’s a dish that feels like a restaurant favorite but comes together easily in your own kitchen.
This recipe is ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. The shrimp cooks quickly, while the rice offers a satisfying, hearty base that turns this dish into a full meal. With its bold garlic flavor, rich parmesan notes, and a hint of lemon brightness, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it for family dinner, date night, or entertaining guests, scampi with garlic parmesan rice always impresses.
Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice – A Restaurant-Style Meal at Home
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
Scampi with Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce, served over creamy, cheesy rice for a comforting yet elegant meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 1/4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add 2 cloves garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the rice and stir to coat in the garlic butter. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Once rice is cooked, stir in Parmesan cheese, heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Cover to keep warm.
- Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat remaining olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add remaining garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Add shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.
- Stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley, tossing shrimp to coat in sauce.
- Serve shrimp scampi over garlic Parmesan rice. Garnish with extra parsley and cheese if desired.
Notes
- For lighter rice, substitute half the cream with milk or omit entirely.
- You can use brown rice or quinoa, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Frozen shrimp can be used—just thaw and pat dry before cooking.
- Pair with a crisp white wine or side salad for a full meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Shrimp – Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are best for this dish. They cook quickly and add a delicate, sweet flavor.
Butter – The base of the scampi sauce, butter provides richness and helps carry the garlic flavor.
Olive oil – Prevents the butter from burning and adds depth to the sauce.
Garlic – A key ingredient in both the scampi and rice, garlic adds warmth, aroma, and savory depth.
Lemon juice – Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors and balances the richness of the butter and parmesan.
White wine or chicken broth – Used to deglaze the pan and create the scampi sauce. Wine adds acidity, while broth works as a family-friendly alternative.
Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated parmesan brings creaminess and nutty flavor to the rice.
Long-grain white rice – Serves as the base, absorbing flavors from the garlic and broth while providing a hearty complement to the shrimp.
Chicken broth – Used to cook the rice, infusing it with flavor instead of relying on water.
Parsley – Adds a fresh herbal touch and bright color to the finished dish.
Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning both the shrimp and rice.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For those who enjoy a little heat, these add a subtle kick to the scampi.
Directions
Start by preparing the rice. In a medium saucepan, heat a small amount of butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Add the rice and stir to coat it in the butter and garlic. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat, cover, and let simmer until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and a touch of butter, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
For the shrimp scampi, heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook briefly, then place the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Deglaze the skillet with white wine or chicken broth, then squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired. Toss the shrimp to coat in the sauce.
Serve the shrimp scampi over a bed of garlic parmesan rice. Drizzle extra sauce from the skillet over the rice, then garnish with chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of parmesan.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation takes about 10 minutes, and cooking takes 20 minutes, making this a 30-minute meal perfect for weeknights.
Storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth to keep the rice moist. The shrimp can be reheated in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, but be careful not to overcook them, as they can become rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but reheats well with proper care.
Variations and Customizations
This dish is versatile and can be adapted to suit different preferences. For a lighter version, substitute brown rice or cauliflower rice for the white rice. To add more vegetables, stir in spinach, asparagus, or peas to the rice before serving.
The scampi can be made with other proteins as well. Try chicken tenders, scallops, or even tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian variation. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the skillet after cooking the shrimp.
Cheese lovers may want to mix in Romano or Asiago with the parmesan for a more complex flavor. If you enjoy bold spice, increase the red pepper flakes or add a pinch of smoked paprika for extra depth.
This recipe can also be turned into a one-pot meal by cooking the rice directly in the skillet with the shrimp and sauce—simply adjust the broth and cooking time accordingly. With so many possibilities, scampi with garlic parmesan rice can easily become a staple in your dinner rotation.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Do I have to use wine in the sauce?
No, chicken broth works perfectly as a substitute.
What rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice is ideal, but basmati or jasmine rice also work well.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but the rice can be made in advance and reheated before serving with freshly cooked shrimp.
How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?
Cook just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2–3 minutes per side.
Can I make the rice creamier?
Yes, stir in a splash of cream or extra butter along with the parmesan.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as long as the broth and parmesan are gluten-free.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
It’s better to use raw shrimp for the best flavor, but pre-cooked can be gently warmed in the sauce.
What can I serve with this dish?
It pairs well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh green salad.
How can I make it spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to the scampi sauce.
Conclusion
Scampi with garlic parmesan rice is a flavorful, comforting dish that feels luxurious yet is quick enough for weeknights. With its garlicky shrimp, creamy parmesan rice, and bright lemon sauce, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level. Simple, versatile, and endlessly customizable, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again—whether for family dinners or special occasions.
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