Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice – Easy One-Pan Dinner

This garlic butter shrimp and rice is a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over seasoned rice that soaks up every delicious bite. Ready in 30 minutes or less, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan meal – Less mess, easy cleanup
• Full of flavor – Garlic butter sauce makes it rich and delicious
• Quick & easy – Ready in 30 minutes
• Customizable – Add veggies or swap proteins

What You’ll Need

Ingredients (Serves 4):

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice

Step 1: Cook the Rice

In a large skillet or pan, heat 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

While the rice is cooking, toss the shrimp with a pinch of salt, pepper, and paprika. In a separate pan, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 3: Combine & Finish

Once the rice is done, stir in the cooked shrimp and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes (if using) and fresh parsley.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice

• Use fresh shrimp – Frozen works too, but thaw completely before cooking.
• Toast the rice – Lightly sautéing it before adding broth enhances the flavor.
• Don’t overcook shrimp – They cook fast and can get rubbery if left too long.

Variations & Add-Ons

• Veggie Boost: Stir in sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or peas.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce.
• Cheesy Twist: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving.

Storage & Meal Prep

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a pan over low heat with a splash of broth to prevent drying out.
• Freeze: The rice can be frozen, but shrimp is best eaten fresh.

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