Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice – Easy & Flavorful Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful meal that will impress your family and friends, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice recipe is the perfect choice. With juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce and served over fluffy, perfectly cooked rice, this dish is not only comforting but also packed with bold flavors.

Shrimp is a fantastic protein choice—it cooks in minutes, absorbs flavors beautifully, and is naturally low in fat while being high in essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and protein. When combined with garlic butter, it creates a mouthwatering dish that’s both indulgent and simple to prepare. Plus, serving it with rice makes it a complete meal that’s filling and satisfying.

This recipe is ideal for weeknight dinners when you need something fast yet delicious. It also works wonderfully for meal prep since it stores well and reheats easily. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new recipe to add to your weekly meal rotation, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

What You’ll Need

To make this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice, you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients. In fact, you likely already have most of them in your kitchen. Here’s everything you’ll need:

Main Ingredients:

Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined) – Choose fresh or frozen shrimp. If using frozen, thaw them completely before cooking.
Butter (4 tbsp, unsalted) – The key ingredient for that rich and flavorful sauce.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced) – Fresh garlic is best for maximum flavor.
Lemon Juice (2 tbsp) – Adds a bright, citrusy contrast to the butter.
Soy Sauce (1 tbsp) – Enhances the umami flavor.
Paprika (1 tsp) – Adds a touch of smokiness and color.
Salt (½ tsp) – Adjust to taste.
Black Pepper (½ tsp) – For a little heat.
Red Pepper Flakes (½ tsp, optional) – If you like a slight kick.
Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp, chopped) – For garnish and added freshness.

For the Rice:

White Rice (1 cup, uncooked) – Jasmine or basmati rice works best.
Water (2 cups) – To cook the rice.
Salt (½ tsp) – Enhances the rice’s flavor.
Olive Oil (1 tbsp) – Helps keep the rice fluffy and prevents sticking.

Equipment Needed:

A large skillet or frying pan
A saucepan with a lid (for cooking the rice)
A sharp knife for chopping
A cutting board
A measuring cup and spoons

With all the ingredients ready, you’re just a few steps away from creating this delicious meal.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

This recipe comes together quickly, so it’s best to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a restaurant-quality dish right in your kitchen.

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse the rice: Place 1 cup of white rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
Boil the water: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add ½ teaspoon salt and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Cook the rice: Stir in the rinsed rice, cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Avoid opening the lid while cooking.
Fluff and rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp

Season the shrimp: In a bowl, toss 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, and ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (if using).
Melt the butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
Sauté the garlic: Add 6 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque.
Add soy sauce and lemon juice: Pour in 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, stirring to coat the shrimp evenly. Cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Garnish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley over the shrimp.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Spoon the fluffy rice onto serving plates.
Top with the buttery garlic shrimp.
Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the dish.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

This dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

Garnish with extra lemon wedges for a bright, zesty touch.
Add a side of steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for added nutrition.
Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese on top for a subtle umami boost.
Serve with a fresh side salad dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar for balance.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftovers, you can store them properly to enjoy later:

Refrigeration: Allow the shrimp and rice to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Place the shrimp and rice in separate freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When reheating, allow them to thaw overnight in the fridge.

Best Ways to Reheat

Stovetop: Warm the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat with a little butter or olive oil for 2-3 minutes. Reheat the rice separately in a covered pan with a splash of water.
Microwave: Place the shrimp and rice in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a little water over the rice, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Oven: Preheat to 300°F (150°C), place the shrimp and rice in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.

Mistakes to Avoid

Even though Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a relatively simple dish, a few common mistakes can impact the final result. Here’s what to watch out for:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook incredibly fast—usually within 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking them can result in a rubbery, tough texture rather than tender and juicy shrimp. A good rule of thumb is to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque. They will continue cooking slightly from the residual heat.

2. Using Cold Shrimp

If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Cooking shrimp straight from frozen can lead to uneven cooking, where the outside overcooks before the inside is done. To thaw properly, place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, then pat them dry with a paper towel.

3. Skipping the Garlic Prep

Garlic is the star of the show in this recipe, but burnt garlic can ruin the entire dish. Since garlic cooks quickly, only sauté it for about 30 seconds before adding the shrimp. If you burn the garlic, it will turn bitter, so be sure to keep an eye on it.

4. Not Rinsing the Rice

Rinsing rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky and clumpy. If you skip this step, your rice might turn out too gummy instead of light and fluffy. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear for the best results.

5. Using the Wrong Pan Size

Cooking shrimp in a crowded pan will cause them to steam instead of sear. This prevents that delicious golden color from forming. Always use a large skillet and cook the shrimp in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.

6. Forgetting the Lemon Juice at the End

Lemon juice adds a bright, fresh contrast to the richness of the butter. If you skip it, the dish might feel a bit too heavy. Adding it at the last minute ensures that you get all of its vibrant citrus flavor.

Tips and Tricks

Want to take your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice to the next level? These expert tips will help you make the most of this delicious dish.

1. Use Fresh Ingredients Whenever Possible

Fresh shrimp have a naturally sweet, briny flavor that enhances the dish. If using frozen shrimp, opt for wild-caught varieties for better taste and texture.
Fresh garlic gives the best flavor compared to pre-minced garlic from a jar.

2. Add a Little Heat for Extra Flavor

If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce while cooking the shrimp. The heat complements the buttery garlic sauce beautifully.

3. Experiment with Different Types of Rice

While jasmine or basmati rice works well for this dish, you can also try:

Brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.
Coconut rice for a slightly sweet, tropical twist (just cook your rice with coconut milk instead of water).
Cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

4. Make It a One-Pan Dish

For easier cleanup, cook the rice in the same pan after making the shrimp:

Remove the cooked shrimp and set them aside.
Add uncooked rice, broth, and seasonings to the skillet.
Let the rice cook, then stir the shrimp back in at the end.

5. Garnish for an Elegant Touch

Sprinkle extra fresh parsley for color.
Add toasted sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
Drizzle a bit of honey or a sweet chili sauce for a hint of sweetness.

6. Double the Recipe for Meal Prep

This dish is perfect for meal prepping because it reheats well. Make a large batch and portion it into containers for easy lunches throughout the week.

Suggestions

Looking to customize your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice? Here are some great variations and serving ideas to make this dish even more exciting!

1. Add Vegetables for More Nutrition

Pairing shrimp with vegetables not only adds color and texture but also boosts the dish’s nutritional value. Here are a few delicious options:

Bell Peppers: Slice them thinly and sauté them with the garlic before adding the shrimp.
Asparagus: Chop into bite-sized pieces and cook alongside the shrimp.
Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach at the end to let it wilt in the warm sauce.
Zucchini: Sauté diced zucchini with the garlic butter for a slightly sweet, tender texture.

2. Swap the Rice for Other Grains

If you want to change things up, try serving the garlic butter shrimp with:

Quinoa: A protein-rich, fluffy alternative to rice.
Couscous: Quick and easy to prepare, with a light and fluffy texture.
Orzo: A small, rice-shaped pasta that soaks up the buttery garlic sauce beautifully.

Discover more quick and flavorful recipes here.

3. Turn It into a Pasta Dish

Love shrimp pasta? Swap out the rice for linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine and toss the cooked noodles directly into the garlic butter sauce. Add an extra splash of lemon juice for brightness.

4. Make It a Shrimp Bowl

Transform this dish into a hearty shrimp rice bowl with fun toppings:

Sliced avocado for a creamy contrast.
Pickled onions for a tangy bite.
Chopped nuts like almonds or cashews for crunch.
A drizzle of spicy mayo for a creamy kick.

5. Try a Garlic Butter Shrimp Wrap

Use the shrimp and rice as a filling for warm tortillas! Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime for a fresh and tasty shrimp wrap.

6. Make It a Surf-and-Turf Meal

Want to impress at dinner? Serve your garlic butter shrimp alongside grilled chicken or steak for a surf-and-turf combination.

FAQ

Here are answers to some common questions about making Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice.

1. Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. The best method is to soak them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes, then pat them dry. Avoid using hot water, as it can start cooking the shrimp prematurely.

2. What’s the Best Type of Shrimp to Use?

Look for large or jumbo shrimp (fresh or frozen) that are peeled and deveined for convenience. If you prefer a more intense seafood flavor, you can leave the tails on.

Make your next meal effortless and delicious!

3. Can I Make This Dish Dairy-Free?

Absolutely! Simply swap out the butter for olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives. You’ll still get a rich and flavorful dish.

4. How Can I Make This Dish Healthier?

To lighten it up, consider:

Using brown rice instead of white rice for extra fiber.
Reducing the butter and replacing some with olive oil.
Adding more vegetables to increase nutrients.

5. How Do I Prevent Garlic from Burning?

Garlic burns quickly, so always cook it on medium heat for just 30 seconds before adding shrimp. If it starts turning brown too fast, remove the pan from the heat immediately.

6. Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?

Yes! This meal is great for meal prep. Store cooked shrimp and rice in separate airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to eat, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

7. What Can I Use Instead of Lemon Juice?

If you don’t have lemon juice, try lime juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy effect.

8. What Side Dishes Pair Well with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Some great side dishes include:

Steamed or roasted vegetables (like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots).
A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for both quick weeknight dinners and impressive weekend meals. With juicy, garlicky shrimp paired with fluffy rice, it’s a meal that strikes the perfect balance between richness and freshness.

By following the tips in this guide—such as avoiding overcooking the shrimp, using fresh ingredients, and adding a touch of lemon juice at the end—you’ll achieve restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. Plus, with all the customization options available, from adding vegetables to switching up the grains or turning it into a pasta dish, this recipe is incredibly versatile and adaptable to different tastes and dietary preferences.

A perfect dish to pair with your next meal.

Whether you’re making this dish for a cozy dinner at home or meal prepping for the week, Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is guaranteed to be a hit. So, why not give it a try tonight? Let us know in the comments how it turned out for you, and don’t forget to share your favorite variations!