Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 4

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This garlic butter shrimp and rice dish is quick, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners. With tender shrimp seared to golden perfection, fluffy rice infused with garlic and peas, and a buttery garlic drizzle, it’s comfort food at its finest. Plus, it’s versatile—you can add other proteins like chicken or sausage if you wish, but even on its own, it’s delicious and satisfying.

About This Recipe

This garlic butter shrimp and rice recipe takes inspiration from classic Spanish paella but keeps things incredibly simple for busy weeknights. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for anyone craving a comforting seafood meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and a rich garlic butter sauce makes this dish a quick, satisfying dinner that feels special any night of the week.

Ingredients

1 cup jasmine rice (or basmati/arborio rice)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 garlic cloves, minced

1/2 cup frozen peas

1/2 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)

1 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken stock

1 pound frozen shrimp/prawns, thawed and patted dry

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the rice, diced tomatoes, frozen peas, and stock. Season lightly with salt and black pepper. Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes until the rice has absorbed the liquid and is cooked through.

Step 2: Sear the Shrimp

While the rice is cooking, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small drizzle of olive oil and sear the thawed shrimp in a single layer for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn golden brown. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make Garlic Butter Sauce

Using the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add the butter and let it melt. Stir in one minced garlic clove (or more, depending on taste) and cook for 20–30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat immediately to avoid burning the garlic. This simple sauce will be drizzled over your shrimp and rice for extra flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Steam

Once the rice is cooked, gently fold the seared shrimp into the rice. Cover the pan with a lid and let it sit for 2–3 minutes off the heat. This allows the shrimp to steam slightly and absorb some of the rice flavors.

Step 5: Serve

Scoop the shrimp and rice onto plates. Drizzle with the garlic butter sauce and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with fresh lemon wedges on the side for a bright, zesty finish. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or roasted vegetables.

Tips for the Perfect Shrimp and Rice

Thaw Shrimp Properly: For best results, thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator. For quicker thawing, place shrimp in a bowl of cold water for 10–20 minutes. Always pat shrimp dry before cooking.

Avoid Overcrowding: Sear shrimp in batches if needed; crowded shrimp will steam instead of sear.

Rice Choices: Jasmine rice works beautifully, but basmati or arborio rice can also be used for slightly different textures.

Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few saffron strands to the rice for a more aromatic dish.

Nutritional Notes:

Shrimp is a lean source of protein and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B12, selenium, and iodine, which support overall health. Combined with rice and vegetables, this garlic butter shrimp dish provides a balanced, nourishing meal that’s satisfying and flavorful. Using a moderate amount of butter keeps the dish rich and indulgent without being overwhelming, making it a perfect weeknight or weekend dinner option.

Storage Tips

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or stock to keep the rice moist.

Variations to Try

Add Vegetables: Stir in bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for extra color and nutrition.

Seafood Medley: Include scallops, calamari, or other seafood along with shrimp.

Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper or a dash of cayenne for heat.

This easy garlic butter shrimp and rice is a quick, delicious, and flexible meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners. The buttery garlic sauce and tender shrimp make it feel indulgent, while the rice and peas keep it wholesome and satisfying.