After a long week of takeout and quick microwave meals, the craving for something fresh and flavorful hits hard. That’s when I stumbled upon the perfect recipe to reignite my passion for home-cooked goodness: Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice. This dish transports you to the coast with its delightful blend of savory butter, aromatic garlic, and succulent shrimp topped with a zesty lemon finish.
In just 20 minutes, you can whip up this complete meal that’s not only a breeze to prepare but also impresses on the dinner table. The moment the shrimp hits the skillet, the heavenly scent fills the air, promising a feast that exceeds your wildest culinary expectations. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser and is flexible enough to adapt to whatever veggies you have on hand.
Ready to reclaim your kitchen? Let’s dive into this easy yet irresistible recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
- Cooking this dish is incredibly easy and can be ready in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
- The rich flavors of garlic and butter meld beautifully with tender shrimp, creating a meal that is absolutely delicious.
- This recipe is versatile; you can easily add your favorite vegetables or serve it with different grains to suit your taste.
- Not only is it visually stunning with bright parsley and lemon wedges, but it’s also sure to impress your family and friends, turning any meal into a special occasion.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• 1 lb large shrimp – make sure they’re fresh or thawed properly for the best texture.
• Salt and pepper – season well to enhance the shrimp’s natural flavors.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds richness and lusciousness to the dish.
• 4 cloves garlic – minced fresh garlic will offer the most robust flavor.
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – adjust to taste for your desired spice level.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice – the perfect zesty touch that brings everything together.
For Serving
• 2 cups cooked rice – use your preferred type of rice for a hearty base.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley – adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges – a delightful squeeze brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.
Transform your weeknight dinners with this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice and leave everyone craving more!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
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Prepare the Rice: If not already cooked, follow the package instructions and prepare the rice. Set it aside while you move on with the shrimp, keeping it warm.
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Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble delightfully, filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of richness.
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Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; we want golden, not brown!
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Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, giving you that perfect tender bite.
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Add Lemon Juice: Stir in the lemon juice, mixing everything well to combine those zesty flavors with the butter and shrimp.
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Combine with Rice: Gently add the cooked rice to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring every grain is coated in that garlicky goodness.
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Serve and Garnish: Serve your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice in bowls or on plates. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add lemon wedges for a burst of freshness!
Optional: For an extra crunch, consider adding some toasted sesame seeds on top.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Variations
Feel free to personalize this recipe with flavors and ingredients that excite your palate!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with olive oil or vegan margarine for a rich, dairy-free option that still has a great flavor.
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Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the skillet for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or sautéed bell peppers for added color and nutrients, making the dish even more delightful.
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Herbal Infusion: Experiment with other fresh herbs like thyme or basil to impart unique fragrance and flavor, making it a fragrant feast for the senses.
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Coconut Rice: Swap regular rice for coconut rice to add a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, transporting your dish to tropical paradise.
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Asian Flair: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce for an Asian-inspired twist that adds depth and umami to every bite.
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Zesty Upgrade: Mix in some lime juice or zest instead of lemon for a refreshing citrus flavor that pairs beautifully with shrimp.
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Protein Swap: Try using scallops or chicken instead of shrimp for an alternative protein that still delivers on taste and texture.
These variations not only enhance the dish but invite you to explore new flavor realms, transforming each serving into a unique culinary experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice are an excellent choice for busy home cooks who want to save time during the week! You can prep the shrimp (cleaned and deveined) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Additionally, you can cook the rice ahead and refrigerate it in a separate container for up to 3 days; just be sure to cool it down before refrigeration to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the shrimp with garlic and butter until cooked through, then toss in the pre-cooked rice. In just minutes, you’ll have a fresh, flavorful meal that’s just as delicious as the first time!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Fridge: Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps preserve the flavors and prevents the shrimp from drying out.
Freezer: If you’re looking to freeze it, place the dish in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s well sealed. It can last for up to 3 months, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Heat until warmed through—about 2–3 minutes in the microwave or 5–7 minutes on low heat in a skillet.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?
Elevate your dining experience with delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the savory goodness of shrimp and rice.
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Garlicky Broccoli: This tender and flavorful side brings a fresh crunch and a hint of garlic that echoes the main dish.
A vibrant green addition on your plate not only looks appetizing but also offers a nutritious balance to the meal. -
Crispy Baked Potatoes: Golden and flaky, these are the ultimate comfort food alongside your succulent shrimp.
Their creamy interiors and crispy skins are perfect for soaking up any extra garlic butter sauce. -
Fresh Green Salad: A light mix of greens dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette refreshes the palate.
The vibrant crispness balances the richness of the Garlic Butter Shrimp, making each bite more memorable. -
Grilled Asparagus: Tender spears grilled to perfection provide both flavor and elegance to your dinner.
Their slight char and earthy flavor elevate your plate, contrasting beautifully with the shrimp’s succulent qualities. -
Herbed Quinoa: This nutty and fluffy grain serves as a protein-packed alternative to rice.
Infused with herbs and lemon, it mirrors the flavors of your main dish while adding extra texture. -
Chardonnay: A chilled glass of this white wine enhances the overall dining experience with its crisp notes.
Its acidity complements the shrimp’s richness and the dish’s garlic and butter flavors beautifully. -
Lemon Sorbet: For dessert, this refreshing treat cleanses the palate after a rich meal.
Its bright, citrusy flavor will be the perfect finish after savoring the buttery shrimp, leaving everyone satisfied.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice, ensure your shrimp are either fresh or properly thawed to maintain the best texture.
- When sautéing the garlic, keep the heat on medium and stay attentive to avoid burning, as burnt garlic can ruin the dish’s flavor profile.
- To enhance the dish, add the lemon juice at the end for a fresh burst of flavor without losing its bright notes during cooking.
- Lastly, be mindful of the cooking time; shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking and ensure they stay tender.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting shrimp, look for those that are firm and have a slight ocean smell. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over, as this can indicate spoilage. Fresh shrimp should be translucent, while frozen shrimp should be properly thawed before cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?
To store left over Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice, place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool completely before sealing to maintain texture.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze it! To do so, place the dish in a freezer-safe container, making sure it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
What should I do if my shrimp are tough after cooking?
If your shrimp turn out tough, it may be due to overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly, usually within 2–3 minutes per side. To remedy this in the future, keep a close eye on them and remove them from heat as soon as they are pink and opaque. This will ensure they remain tender and juicy.
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice safe for people with shellfish allergies?
No, it’s important to note that Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice contains shrimp, a common allergen. If you’re cooking for someone with this type of allergy, consider substituting the shrimp with a protein they can consume, such as chicken or tofu, adjusting cooking times as necessary to ensure proper doneness.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Very! Adding vegetables can elevate the dish while packing in more nutrition. Try tossing in some spinach, bell peppers, or snap peas just after adding the garlic to the skillet. Just sauté them briefly to maintain their crispness, then follow through with the shrimp.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp make sure they're fresh or thawed properly for the best texture.
- to taste Salt season well to enhance the shrimp's natural flavors.
- to taste Pepper season well to enhance the shrimp's natural flavors.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness and lusciousness to the dish.
- 4 cloves garlic minced fresh garlic will offer the most robust flavor.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste for your desired spice level.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice the perfect zesty touch that brings everything together.
- 2 cups cooked rice use your preferred type of rice for a hearty base.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Lemon wedges a delightful squeeze brightens the dish and enhances the flavors.
Method
- If not already cooked, follow the package instructions and prepare the rice. Set it aside while you move on with the shrimp, keeping it warm.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat until it begins to bubble delightfully, filling your kitchen with the warm aroma of richness.
- Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn; we want golden, not brown!
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2–3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, giving you that perfect tender bite.
- Stir in the lemon juice, mixing everything well to combine those zesty flavors with the butter and shrimp.
- Gently add the cooked rice to the skillet and toss everything together, ensuring every grain is coated in that garlicky goodness.
- Serve your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice in bowls or on plates. Don't forget to sprinkle fresh parsley on top and add lemon wedges for a burst of freshness!
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