Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels like a big warm hug after a long day, you have to try this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of succulent shrimp swimming in a rich, garlicky butter sauce served atop fluffy, perfectly cooked rice. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor—the buttery richness mellowed out just right by a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of bright parsley. Whether you’re cooking for a weekday meal or impressing guests, this dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to whip up any night of the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity, where each ingredient plays a vital role. From the creamy butter to the fresh garlic and the delicate shrimp, every element contributes to the final dish’s irresistible taste, texture, and color.

• Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): Opt for medium to large shrimp for the perfect bite and texture; fresh or thawed frozen shrimp works equally well.
• Butter (½ cup, unsalted): This forms the luscious sauce base, so good quality butter makes a noticeable difference.
• Garlic (6-8 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic is essential for that robust, aromatic punch that defines the flavor.
• Rice (1 cup, uncooked, long-grain white): Fluffy and separate grains are best; Jasmine or Basmati rice also give a lovely fragrant touch.
• Chicken Broth or Water (2 cups): Chicken broth adds extra savory depth while water is a great simple alternative.
• Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed): This brightens the dish and cuts through the butter’s richness with vibrant acidity.
• White Wine (¼ cup, dry, optional): Adds complexity and subtle acidity to the sauce, but can be skipped or replaced with broth.
• Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): A gentle hint of heat balances out the buttery garlic flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (¼ cup, chopped): A fresh herbaceous finish that adds color and freshness.
• Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Don’t forget to season generously to let all flavors shine.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by combining your rice and chicken broth (or water) in a medium saucepan. Bring it quickly to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook gently for 15-20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluffing the rice with a fork helps separate the grains, creating the perfect fluffy bed for your garlicky shrimp to sit on. This step sets the foundation, so it’s worth taking the time to get it just right.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp

While the rice cooks, pat your shrimp dry really well with paper towels. This little trick helps the shrimp brown beautifully without steaming, giving you that lovely caramelized touch. Season them generously with salt and black pepper—all the way through for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic

Next, melt your butter over medium heat in a large skillet. As soon as it starts shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if you like a tiny kick. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, just until the garlic becomes fragrant and lightly golden—watch carefully so it doesn’t turn bitter. Butter and garlic create a savory, aromatic base that your shrimp will soak up beautifully.

Step 4: Add White Wine (Optional)

If you’re using white wine, this is the moment to pour it in. Let it gently simmer for a minute or two so the alcohol mellow out and the flavors concentrate, adding a wonderful depth and brightness to the sauce. If white wine’s not your style, just use a little extra chicken broth and your sauce will still be delicious.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Arrange your seasoned shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid crowding the pan to prevent steaming—cooking in batches if your skillet isn’t big enough helps maintain a nice sear and texture. Watching those shrimp change color is one of the most rewarding parts of cooking this dish!

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the pan from heat. Stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley. The lemon juice brightens every bite, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy, while parsley adds fresh color and flavor that makes this dish feel truly special.

Step 7: Serve It Up

Scoop generous portions of the warm, fluffy rice into bowls or plates, then nestle the garlicky shrimp on top with all that luscious buttery sauce. For a final touch, sprinkle extra fresh parsley if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the shrimp at their tender best and the rice warm and comforting.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh parsley scattered on top not only adds a vivid green pop of color but a bright herbal note that balances the rich butter. A few lemon wedges on the side invite diners to add an extra squeeze of zing. For an adventurous touch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a dash of smoked paprika for subtle smokiness.

Side Dishes

This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp, fresh sides. A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast, while roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli bring some earthy tones that round out the meal perfectly. For a heartier option, crusty garlic bread sop up every last drop of that irresistible garlic butter sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to dress the dish up, consider serving the shrimp and rice in a hollowed-out bell pepper or tomato for a stunning presentation. Alternatively, plate the rice in a neat ring mold topped with the shrimp artfully arranged on top. Garnishing with edible flowers or microgreens adds an elegant touch that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, promptly store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The shrimp and rice will keep well for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the dish before sealing to maintain quality and avoid sogginess.

Freezing

You can freeze the shrimp and rice separately if needed. Place them in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 2 months. Freezing may slightly change the shrimp’s texture, so it’s best enjoyed fresh, but this is a convenient option for busy weeks.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and rice together in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep things moist and prevent sticking. Avoid using the microwave if you want to keep the shrimp tender and the rice fluffy. A quick toss in the pan brings the dish back to life beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp straight from the freezer?

It’s best to thaw frozen shrimp before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper browning. You can thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water, then pat dry before seasoning.

Is it necessary to use white wine in the sauce?

Not at all! White wine adds lovely acidity and depth, but if you prefer to skip it, simply replace it with extra chicken broth. The dish remains just as delicious and flavorful.

What type of rice works best with this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is ideal because it stays fluffy and separate. However, Jasmine or Basmati rice are both wonderful fragrant alternatives that complement the garlic butter sauce beautifully.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth and other ingredients don’t contain gluten additives. Always check labels if you need to be extra certain.

How spicy is this dish with red pepper flakes?

The red pepper flakes add just a mild, subtle heat that balances the richness without overwhelming the dish. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance or leave them out entirely.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so wonderfully satisfying about combining simple ingredients to create a dish as flavorful and comforting as this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice Recipe. It’s versatile, quick to prepare, and packed with personality—guaranteed to become one of your go-to meals whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing the love. Trust me, once you try it, this will find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So grab your skillet and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!

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