Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1 lemon; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 cup jasmine rice; 2 cups water or broth; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice whenever I want a quick yet impressive meal. The combination of juicy shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter served over fluffy rice creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. The aromatic fragrance that fills my kitchen as it cooks is simply irresistible! Plus, this dish comes together in no time—ideal for busy weeknights when I need something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-01T21:19:36.508Z

This Garlic Butter Shrimp dish has become a staple in my meal rotation because it’s not only easy to prepare, but also incredibly satisfying. I love how the butter and garlic work together to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp, making each bite burst with flavor. Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon at the end balances the richness perfectly!

During one of my weekend cooking sessions, I decided to experiment with different herbs. I found that adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley right before serving brought a wonderful freshness to the dish. It's that touch that transforms a simple recipe into an impressive feast!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bold garlic flavor combined with buttery goodness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners
Beautiful presentation that impresses family and friends

Perfecting the Garlic Butter

The key to achieving a rich garlic flavor in your Garlic Butter Shrimp lies in the sautéing process. Use a medium heat setting to melt the butter until it's frothy but not browned. Adding minced garlic at this stage is crucial, as you want it to infuse the butter without burning. Sauté for just 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and slightly golden. This step ensures that the garlic's essential oils are released, creating a robust flavor that complements the shrimp beautifully.

Remember, the shrimp should be the star of the dish. Cook them on medium to medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until they are uniformly pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this could lead to steaming rather than searing. If you have more shrimp than can comfortably fit, cook them in batches and keep the first batch warm by covering it with aluminum foil while the second cooks.

Selecting and Cooking Rice

Jasmine rice is the ideal choice for this dish due to its slightly floral aroma and fluffy texture. Rinsing the rice under cold water before cooking helps remove excess starch, which can make the rice gummy. This simple step ensures that each grain remains separate and light. When boiling the water or broth, you can enhance the flavor of the rice by adding a pinch of salt or a splash of lemon juice for an extra layer of zest.

Keep in mind that different rice varieties have varying water absorption rates. If you're using a different type of rice, check the package for the correct water-to-rice ratio. The cooking time may also differ; for instance, long-grain white rice typically cooks in about 18 minutes, while brown rice can take up to 45 minutes. Always let the rice sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to allow it to steam and achieve a perfect texture.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp

1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

For the Rice

1 cup jasmine rice
2 cups water or broth
Salt to taste

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Cook the Rice

In a medium pot, bring water or broth to a boil. Add jasmine rice and salt, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed.

Sauté the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the shrimp, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley. Serve the garlic butter shrimp over the cooked rice, and enjoy!

Pro Tips

Make sure to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. A quick cook until pink and opaque ensures the perfect texture!

Serving Suggestions

Serving Garlic Butter Shrimp over rice is a classic approach, but feel free to get creative! You can also pair it with different grains like quinoa or couscous for a variation in texture. If you're looking to add some greens, serve it alongside sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for a balanced meal with vibrant colors. A sprinkle of additional fresh parsley on top not only enhances the dish’s presentation but also adds a fresh taste that elevates the overall flavor.

Another fun idea is to turn this dish into a shrimp bowl. Simply add some diced avocado, sliced cucumbers, and radishes around the rice and shrimp for a refreshing, crunchy contrast. Drizzle a little extra lemon juice or a homemade vinaigrette over the top for a zesty finish that brightens the entire dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you're planning to prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp ahead of time, consider cooking the shrimp and rice separately within a day of serving. The cooked shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just be sure to let them cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation, which could lead to unwanted sogginess. When ready to serve, reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain tenderness without overcooking.

For the rice, it's best enjoyed fresh, but you can refrigerate it as well. When reheating, add a splash of water and cover the pot; this will help restore moisture and prevent it from drying out. If you find yourself with leftovers, I recommend incorporating them into a simple stir-fry the next day, adding fresh vegetables and soy sauce for a quick and delicious second meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of rice works best?

Jasmine rice is ideal for its aromatic flavor and fluffy texture, but you can use any long-grain rice.

→ How can I make this recipe spicy?

You can add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while sautéing the shrimp for a kick.

→ Can I substitute butter with olive oil?

Yes, olive oil can be used as a healthier option, though the flavor will be slightly different.