Save Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and served over fluffy rice with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs makes for a vibrant satisfying meal. This easy dish brings restaurant flavor to your own kitchen in under 30 minutes.
I love making this garlic butter shrimp rice bowl on busy weeknights when I want something both comforting and impressive. It's always a hit with family and friends thanks to the rich flavors and beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Rice: 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (about 3/4 cup uncooked)
- Garlic Butter Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic (finely minced), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- Garnishes: 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Season Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté Garlic:
- In a large skillet over medium heat melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.
- Add Flavors:
- Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using) lemon zest and lemon juice. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and swirl to melt. Remove from heat.
- Plate:
- Divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top each bowl with the garlic butter shrimp and spoon some of the sauce over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Save My family always requests this dish when they crave something special but simple. Sharing these bowls around the dinner table brings everyone together for a cozy satisfying meal.
Serving and Variations
For extra nutrition add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli to the bowls. Feel free to swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa for a wholesome twist.
Allergen Information
This meal contains shellfish (shrimp) and dairy (butter). Make it dairy free by using a plant-based butter alternative and always check all ingredient labels if you have allergies.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave just until warmed through to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Save A touch of lemon and fresh herbs finishes this dish beautifully. Enjoy a restaurant worthy meal any night of the week.
Kitchen Questions
- → How do I prevent garlic from burning while cooking?
Sauté garlic on medium heat for a short time, stirring constantly until fragrant but not browned. This preserves its flavor without bitterness.
- → Can I use different types of rice for this dish?
Yes, jasmine or basmati rice works well, but you can substitute brown rice or quinoa for a healthier twist.
- → What is the best way to cook shrimp evenly?
Cook shrimp in a single layer in a hot skillet, turning after 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque for even cooking.
- → How can I adjust the heat level in the dish?
Include or omit crushed red pepper flakes based on your preferred spice level.
- → What herbs pair well with garlic butter shrimp?
Fresh parsley adds a bright, herbal note that complements the richness of garlic butter and shrimp perfectly.