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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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This website contains affiliate links. Some products are gifted by the brand to test. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. The content on this website was created with the help of AI.