This Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice is packed with tender shrimp and fluffy white rice, enveloped with a Parmesan and basil cream sauce. It’s easy to make and ready in less than 20 minutes!

You’ll also love this Teriyaki Shrimp Stir Fry, Herb Crusted Salmon, and Tuna Skillet Casserole!

shrimp and rice in pan

Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice

I’ll admit it, I have a hard time creating a dish without garlic or cheese. Garlic sneaks its way into nearly every meal I cook, and when it comes to cheese, Parmesan is my go-to. What can I say? It’s just how I roll, and I’m not even a little sorry about it.

That said, for today’s recipe, I decided to mix things up a bit with a fresh twist: Parmesan and basil. Yes, garlic still makes an appearance (some habits die hard), but basil takes the spotlight this time, adding a bright, herby flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.

And since I’m all about easy, flavorful meals here at Pumpkin ‘N Spice, this Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice is perfect for your weeknight dinner rotation. The hubster and I love seafood, and shrimp is one of our go-tos when we want something quick but satisfying. It had also been a while since I made a rice dish, so I thought a creamy, zesty sauce over tender shrimp and fluffy rice would hit the spot—and it absolutely did.

shrimp and rice on plate

What’s Needed for Shrimp and Rice? 

This garlic Parmesan shrimp and rice dish comes together quickly with minimal ingredients: 

  • White rice
  • Unsalted butter
  • Garlic
  • Shrimp
  • Shredded Parmesan
  • Fresh basil
  • Milk

How to Make Parmesan Shrimp and Rice

To start, you’ll want to prepare the rice according to the package directions and then set aside. Then, you’ll melt some butter in a large skillet, sauté some garlic, and then add in the shrimp. Once the shrimp is opaque and heated through, it’s time to stir in the rice.

Then comes the fun part, the Parmesan basil cream sauce! You’ll add in the shredded Parmesan cheese, fresh basil, salt, pepper and milk. Give it a stir and heat until creamy and warm.

And that’s it! This Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice is ready to be devoured! With hardly any prep work and just a few simple ingredients, you can have this dish on your dinner table in no time. And I guarantee you’ll love it just as much as I do!

shrimp and rice in pan

Can I Use Brown Rice? 

I’m sure you could! However, brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice, so be sure to factor that in when making this shrimp and rice recipe. 

Can I Use Another Type of Milk? 

Of course! Any type of milk (or heavy cream) will work here. If using non-dairy milk, make sure it’s unsweetened. 

Tips for Making Parmesan Shrimp and Rice

  • Be sure to buy shrimp that’s already been peeled and deveined to save you prep time. 
  • If buying frozen shrimp, you’ll need to get raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked. 
  • For the best flavor, buy a block of Parmesan and shred it yourself. Trust me, it makes a difference! 
shrimp and rice on plate

Looking for more seafood recipes? I’ve got you covered!

shrimp and rice in pan
5 from 7 ratings

Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice

Yield: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
This Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice is packed with tender shrimp and fluffy white rice, enveloped with a Parmesan and basil cream sauce. It's easy to make and ready in less than 20 minutes!
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Ingredients
 

  • 1½ cups dry white rice
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic
  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 3 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ¼ cup milk or heavy cream

Instructions
 

  • Prepare rice according to package directions. Set aside.
  • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
  • Add shrimp and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and pink. Stir in rice and mix well.
  • Add Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, pepper and milk to shrimp. Stir until rice thickens and becomes creamy.
  • Remove from heat and garnish with additional basil, if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

See my tips and tricks for making this Parmesan Basil Shrimp and Rice above the recipe box.
Serving: 1serving, Calories: 528kcal, Carbohydrates: 57g, Protein: 33g, Fat: 17g, Saturated Fat: 10g, Cholesterol: 326mg, Sodium: 1093mg, Potassium: 202mg, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 1g, Vitamin A: 551IU, Vitamin C: 5mg, Calcium: 358mg, Iron: 3mg
Cuisine: American
Course: Main Course
Author: Gayle
Did you make this recipe?Let me know! Mention @pumpkin_n_spice on Instagram or tag #pumpkin_n_spice.

Photos updated 1/25/2021