Oh my goodness, let me tell you about garlic butter shrimp and rice! This dish is an absolute flavor explosion, and it’s so quick to whip up that it’s become a weeknight favorite in my house. The savory garlic mingling with rich, melted butter creates a sauce that’s just begging to be soaked up by fluffy rice. And the shrimp? They go from fresh to perfectly pink in just minutes! I love making this for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. It’s so comforting and satisfying, yet feels a bit fancy, don’t you think? Seriously, you’ll want to dive right in as soon as you smell that buttery garlic goodness wafting through your kitchen!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The large shrimp are the star of the show, soaking up that heavenly garlic butter. I always use unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness just right! The fragrant garlic adds depth, while the long-grain rice perfectly balances everything out. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely pop of color and freshness. Trust me, you’ll want to have these on hand for a quick and delicious meal!
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
Alright, let’s get cooking! The first step is to tackle that rice since it needs some time to fluff up while we work on the shrimp. Follow the package instructions, usually, it’s a simple 1 cup of rice to 2 cups of water ratio. Bring the water to a boil, add a pinch of salt, then toss in the rice. Lower the heat, cover it, and let it simmer for about 15–20 minutes or until all the water is absorbed. Fluff it with a fork when it’s done, and set it aside to keep warm.
Cooking the Rice
Just remember, if you’re using a different type of rice, check the package for specific water-to-rice ratios. It’s important for getting that perfect texture! You want it fluffy, not sticky, so don’t skip the fluffing step!
Creating the Garlic Butter Shrimp
Now, while your rice is cooking, let’s get to the fun part—making the garlic butter shrimp! In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s all melted and bubbly, add the minced garlic. Oh, the smell is divine! Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant, but be careful not to burn it. Next, add in the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook those beauties for about 3–4 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they turn a lovely pink. And just like that, you’ve got a delicious garlic butter shrimp ready to serve over that fluffy rice!
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my favorite tips for nailing this garlic butter shrimp and rice every single time! First off, always opt for fresh shrimp if you can; it makes a world of difference in flavor and texture. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to suit your taste—more is definitely more in my book! And here’s a little secret: a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a bright burst of flavor that elevates the whole dish. Trust me, you won’t regret it!
Nutritional Information
Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary depending on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so take these numbers as a general guide. For one plate of this delicious garlic butter shrimp and rice, you’re looking at approximately 400 calories, 18g of fat, 25g of protein, and 45g of carbohydrates. It’s a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor without feeling heavy, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp can work just fine in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. I usually let them sit in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and run them under cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Thawing ensures they cook evenly and don’t turn rubbery. Trust me, you won’t notice the difference once they’re coated in that delicious garlic butter!
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp and rice?
This dish is so versatile! I love serving it with some steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans to add a pop of color and nutrition. A fresh salad with a zesty vinaigrette pairs beautifully as well. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, some crusty garlic bread or a light coleslaw can complement the meal perfectly. And don’t forget a nice glass of white wine or sparkling water to wash it all down!
How can I store leftovers?
If you have any leftovers (which is rare at my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to let it cool down first before sealing it up. When you’re ready to eat again, reheat it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. You’ll want to avoid the microwave if you can, as it could make the shrimp tough. Enjoy your delicious meal all over again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Packed with flavor from the rich garlic butter sauce
- Healthy option with lean protein from shrimp and wholesome rice
- Perfect for weeknight meals when you need something delicious without the fuss
- Impressive enough for guests, yet simple enough for everyday cooking
- Customizable with your favorite veggies or seasonings
Honestly, this garlic butter shrimp and rice checks all the boxes for me. It’s like a warm hug on a plate, and I’m sure you’ll feel the same way once you dive in!
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving garlic butter shrimp and rice, I love to keep it fresh and vibrant! A side of steamed vegetables, like crisp broccoli or sweet snap peas, adds a lovely crunch and color that complements the dish beautifully. You could also whip up a light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty lemon vinaigrette—trust me, the brightness really enhances the flavors! If you’re feeling a bit indulgent, some buttery garlic bread is always a hit. And don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with a slice of lemon for that extra touch. Enjoy every bite!
For more information on the health benefits of shrimp, check out this Healthline article. You’ll find that shrimp is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice: 5 Steps to Deliciousness!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Garlic butter shrimp served over rice.
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups water
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink.
- Serve shrimp over rice and garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best results.
- You can add lemon juice for extra flavor.
- Adjust garlic according to your taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp and rice
