Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice is one of those dishes that just hits all the right notes. In our home, it’s become a weeknight staple, a go-to when we crave something flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly quick to prepare. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of garlic sizzling in butter filled the kitchen, instantly making everyone hungry. The kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured it, asking for seconds and even thirds! The juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp bathed in that rich, garlicky sauce over fluffy rice – it’s pure comfort food elevated with a touch of elegance. Honestly, it’s a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare, but in reality, it’s ready in under 30 minutes. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both impressive and effortless, look no further. This Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice is about to become your new favorite too.

Ingredients for the Best Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

To create this culinary magic, you’ll need just a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each component is essential:

• Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Fresh or frozen (thawed) both work well. Opt for larger shrimp (like 21-25 count) for a more substantial bite, but medium-sized shrimp are also fantastic and cook even quicker. Ensure they are peeled and deveined to save time and ensure a pleasant eating experience.
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), unsalted. Butter is the star of the sauce, providing richness and flavor. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish perfectly. Using high-quality butter will enhance the overall taste.
• Garlic: 6-8 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is absolutely crucial for that pungent, aromatic garlic flavor that defines this dish. Mincing it finely ensures it infuses the butter beautifully and cooks evenly without burning. Don’t skimp on the garlic!
• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, extra virgin. Olive oil adds a touch of healthy fat and helps prevent the butter from burning, especially when cooking at higher heat. Extra virgin olive oil provides a subtle fruity note that complements the garlic and butter.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed. Fresh lemon juice brightens up the rich butter garlic sauce with its acidity and adds a zesty freshness that cuts through the richness and balances the flavors perfectly. Bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch, but fresh is always superior.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant green color and a fresh, herbaceous note that elevates the dish. It’s best added at the end as a garnish to maintain its fresh flavor and bright color.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (optional). For a subtle kick of heat, red pepper flakes add a layer of complexity and a gentle warmth that balances the richness of the butter and garlic. Adjust the amount to your spice preference or omit entirely if you prefer a milder dish.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Seasoning is key to bringing out all the flavors. Kosher salt is recommended for its clean taste, and freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent aroma and flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Cooked Rice: For serving. About 3-4 cups cooked rice. White rice is a classic pairing, but brown rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice also work beautifully. Prepare the rice according to package directions while you are making the shrimp.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Follow these simple steps to create restaurant-quality Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice in your own kitchen. Each step is designed to ensure perfectly cooked shrimp and a luscious, flavorful sauce.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp (If Using Frozen)

If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are no longer frozen but still cold. Pat the thawed shrimp dry with paper towels. Drying the shrimp is crucial as it helps them to sear properly in the pan and prevents them from steaming, which can make them rubbery.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the shrimp are thawing (or if using fresh shrimp), start cooking your rice according to package directions. This will ensure the rice is ready to serve at the same time as the shrimp. You can use a rice cooker, Instant Pot, or cook it on the stovetop. For stovetop rice, typically it’s a 2:1 ratio of water to rice, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for about 15-20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic in Butter and Olive Oil

In a large skillet or pan, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the olive oil. The olive oil raises the smoke point of the butter and prevents it from burning too quickly. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic will taste bitter. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. The aroma of garlic sautéing in butter is incredibly enticing and is a great indicator that you are on the right track.

Step 4: Add Shrimp and Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. If your pan is crowded, work in batches to ensure the shrimp sear properly instead of steaming. If using red pepper flakes, sprinkle them over the shrimp at this stage. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it’s important to watch them closely. They are done when they curl up and become a vibrant pink color with no grey or translucent parts remaining. Avoid over-crowding the pan as this will lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear.

Step 6: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. The lemon juice will deglaze the pan slightly, lifting up any flavorful bits from the bottom. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly in the butter garlic sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. The parsley adds a fresh, herbaceous note and a pop of color to the dish.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Serve the Butter Garlic Shrimp immediately over hot cooked rice. Spoon the flavorful butter garlic sauce over the shrimp and rice. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and lemon wedges, if desired. The dish is best enjoyed hot, right after cooking, when the shrimp are juicy and the sauce is at its peak flavor.

Nutrition Facts for Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

This dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein and flavor. Here’s an estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings and using approximately 4 ounces of shrimp per serving):

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories (depending on rice portion and butter usage)
• Protein: 30-35 grams
• Fat: 25-30 grams (primarily from butter and olive oil, includes healthy fats)
• Saturated Fat: 15-20 grams (from butter)
• Cholesterol: 250-300 mg (from shrimp and butter)
• Sodium: 400-600 mg (depending on salt added)

Important Note: These are estimated values and can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and cooking methods. For more accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator app and input the exact ingredients and amounts used. This dish is a good source of lean protein from the shrimp and healthy fats from olive oil and butter (in moderation).

Preparation Time Breakdown

One of the best things about Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice is how quickly it comes together. Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

• Prep Time: 10-15 minutes (This includes thawing shrimp if frozen, peeling garlic, mincing garlic, chopping parsley, juicing lemon, and measuring ingredients.)
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (This includes cooking the rice and cooking the shrimp with the butter garlic sauce.)
• Total Time: 25-35 minutes

This makes it an ideal weeknight meal when time is short but you still want a flavorful and satisfying dinner. The majority of the time is spent cooking the rice and shrimp, and the sauce comes together in mere minutes.

How to Serve Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice is versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance the dining experience. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Classic Serving:
  • Serve generously over a bed of hot, fluffy rice. White rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice are all excellent choices.
  • Spoon extra butter garlic sauce over the rice to ensure every bite is flavorful.
• Side Dish Pairings:
  • Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or mixed vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side. The freshness of the vegetables complements the richness of the shrimp.
  • Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish.
  • Crusty Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for soaking up the delicious butter garlic sauce.
  • Lemon Wedges: Always offer lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the table further brightens the flavors.
• Garnish Ideas:
  • Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle extra chopped fresh parsley over the dish for added freshness and visual appeal.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Offer extra red pepper flakes on the side for those who like a spicier kick.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese: A light sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can add a savory, cheesy note (optional, but some enjoy it).
  • Chopped Scallions: For a mild oniony flavor and green garnish, sprinkle chopped scallions on top.
• Rice Variations:
  • Garlic Rice: Enhance the garlic theme by making garlic rice. Sauté garlic in butter or olive oil before adding the rice and water to cook.
  • Lemon Rice: For a brighter flavor, make lemon rice by adding lemon zest and lemon juice to the cooking water for the rice.
  • Brown Rice or Quinoa: For a healthier option, serve with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice. They offer more fiber and nutrients.

Additional Tips for the Best Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Elevate your Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice from good to absolutely amazing with these helpful tips and tricks:

1. Use High-Quality Shrimp: Start with the best quality shrimp you can find. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but high-quality frozen shrimp, thawed properly, are a great alternative. Look for shrimp that are firm, smell fresh (not fishy), and have a good color.
2. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their delicious texture. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque and are slightly curled. Err on the side of slightly undercooked if you are unsure; they will continue to cook slightly off the heat.
3. Fresh Garlic is Key: While garlic powder can be a pantry staple, fresh garlic is essential for this dish. The flavor of freshly minced garlic sautéed in butter is unparalleled and provides the signature aroma and taste of Butter Garlic Shrimp.
4. Adjust Garlic to Your Preference: The recipe calls for 6-8 cloves of garlic, but you can adjust this amount to your liking. If you are a garlic lover, feel free to add more. For a milder garlic flavor, use slightly less.
5. Don’t Burn the Garlic: Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing it in butter. Burnt garlic will taste bitter and ruin the flavor of the sauce. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. Sauté just until fragrant and lightly golden.
6. Add a Splash of White Wine (Optional): For an even richer and more complex sauce, add a splash of dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc) to the skillet after sautéing the garlic and before adding the shrimp. Let it reduce slightly for a minute or two before proceeding with the recipe. The acidity of the wine enhances the flavors.
7. Marinate the Shrimp for Extra Flavor (Optional): For even more flavorful shrimp, you can marinate them briefly before cooking. A simple marinade of olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for 15-20 minutes can enhance the shrimp’s taste and tenderness. However, this step is optional as the butter garlic sauce is already very flavorful.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice

Have questions about making Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice? Here are answers to some common queries to help you succeed:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, absolutely! Frozen shrimp are a convenient and perfectly acceptable option. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are no longer frozen but still cold. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels before cooking to ensure they sear properly.

Q2: Can I use pre-minced garlic from a jar instead of fresh garlic?

A: While fresh garlic is highly recommended for the best flavor, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch. However, be aware that pre-minced garlic tends to have a less intense and sometimes slightly bitter flavor compared to freshly minced garlic. If using pre-minced garlic, use about 2-3 teaspoons to equal approximately 6-8 cloves of fresh garlic.

Q3: How can I make Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice spicier?

A: There are several ways to add more spice to this dish. You can increase the amount of red pepper flakes, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, or include a finely chopped chili pepper (like jalapeño or serrano) when sautéing the garlic. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who want to add extra heat at the table.

Q4: What kind of rice is best to serve with Butter Garlic Shrimp?

A: White rice is the classic and most common choice for Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice, as its neutral flavor allows the shrimp and sauce to shine. Jasmine rice and basmati rice are particularly good options as they are fragrant and fluffy. Brown rice or quinoa can be used for a healthier alternative. Ultimately, the best rice is the one you enjoy most!

Q5: Can I add vegetables to this Butter Garlic Shrimp and Rice recipe?

A: Yes, you can definitely add vegetables to make it a more complete meal. Good vegetable additions include broccoli florets, asparagus spears, bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas. You can sauté the vegetables in the skillet before adding the shrimp, or add them alongside the shrimp towards the end of the cooking time, depending on how long they take to cook.

Q6: How should I store leftover Butter Garlic Shrimp with Rice?

A: Store leftover Butter Garlic Shrimp and Rice in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It’s best to store the shrimp and rice separately if possible to prevent the rice from becoming too soggy. Leftovers are best consumed within 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until heated through. Be careful not to over-reheat the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. A splash of water or broth can help rehydrate the rice when reheating.

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