Garlic butter shrimp and rice is one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s incredibly simple to whip up, yet the flavors are nothing short of spectacular. I remember the first time I made this dish—it was a rainy evening, and I wanted something comforting but quick. The aroma of sizzling garlic and melting butter filled my kitchen, and I could hardly wait to dig in! Trust me, the combination of succulent shrimp and fluffy rice coated in that rich garlic butter sauce is absolutely divine. You’ll be coming back for seconds, I promise!
Ingredients List
To make the best garlic butter shrimp and rice, you’ll need just a handful of fresh ingredients that really pack a flavor punch. Here’s what I use:
- 1 pound shrimp: Make sure they’re peeled and deveined—fresh or frozen work!
- 4 tablespoons butter: Go for unsalted to control the saltiness.
- 4 cloves garlic: Minced for that aromatic goodness; fresh is key!
- 1 cup rice: I typically use long-grain white rice, but feel free to choose your favorite.
- 2 cups water: For cooking the rice; adjust as needed based on your rice type.
- Salt and black pepper: To taste—don’t skimp on seasoning!
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens up the dish beautifully.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped for garnish; it adds a lovely pop of color.
Always go for the freshest ingredients you can find; they make a world of difference in flavor!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
Now, let’s get cooking! This garlic butter shrimp and rice dish comes together in a snap, and I can’t wait to share the steps with you. First, we’ll start with the rice, as it needs some time to cook while we prepare the shrimp.
Cooking the Rice
In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil—make sure it’s a rolling boil! Once that’s happening, add in 1 cup of rice and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and fluffy. Keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t stick or burn. When it’s done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside!
Making the Garlic Butter Shrimp
While the rice is cooking, let’s move on to the star of the show—the shrimp! In a skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat until it’s bubbling gently. Then, toss in 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until they’re fragrant—oh, that smell is heavenly! Now, add in the pound of shrimp, season with salt and black pepper, and cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcook them; we want them juicy and tender! Finally, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for that zesty kick. Give everything a good stir, and you’re ready to serve this delightful dish over your fluffy rice!
Tips for Success
To really elevate your garlic butter shrimp and rice, here are a few pro tips! First, for an extra flavor boost, consider using shrimp with their shells on—just remember to peel them before serving. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier option. If you want more color and nutrition, feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. Finally, don’t rush the cooking; patience is key to perfectly tender shrimp. And trust me, always taste as you go to adjust the seasoning to your liking!
Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to customize this garlic butter shrimp and rice dish! For a vibrant twist, try adding colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas—just sauté them alongside the garlic for a few minutes before adding the shrimp. You can also swap out the rice for quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb option. Want to kick it up a notch? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or some fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a refreshing touch. The possibilities are endless, and I’m sure you’ll find a favorite variation!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for a serving of my garlic butter shrimp and rice. Each serving contains about 350 calories, with 15g of fat, 25g of protein, and 34g of carbohydrates. Keep in mind, these are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. It’s a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. This dish is perfect for using up frozen shrimp you might have on hand.
What type of rice works best? I usually stick with long-grain white rice, but jasmine or basmati can also add a lovely fragrance! Just adjust the water ratios accordingly.
How do I know when the shrimp are done? Keep an eye on the color! They should turn pink and opaque—this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. Overcooking can make them tough, so don’t leave them unattended!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? While this garlic butter shrimp and rice is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components separately and reheat them together for a quick meal later on.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp and rice? A fresh green salad or some steamed vegetables make fantastic sides to balance the meal and add some crunch!
Serving Suggestions
To really create a balanced meal with your garlic butter shrimp and rice, I love to serve it alongside a fresh green salad. A simple mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber tossed with a light vinaigrette adds a lovely crunch and brightens the plate. You could also pair it with some steamed broccoli or asparagus for a pop of color and extra nutrients. And if you’re feeling a bit indulgent, a slice of crusty garlic bread on the side is always a hit! Trust me, these accompaniments will take your meal to the next level!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you happen to have leftovers of your delicious garlic butter shrimp and rice (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just let it cool completely before sealing it up. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a little extra butter to keep it moist while warming. Stir frequently until heated through. You can also use the microwave—just cover it to retain moisture, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between. Enjoy every last bite!
For more delicious recipes, check out Garlic Butter Pasta or Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice: 7 Steps to Comforting Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful garlic butter shrimp served over rice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice, uncooked
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add rice and a pinch of salt. Lower the heat and cover. Cook for 15-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in lemon juice.
- Serve the shrimp over the cooked rice and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- For extra flavor, use shrimp with shells on.
- You can substitute rice with quinoa for a healthier option.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for more nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp and rice
