Ingredients
For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Rice:
- 2 cups cooked rice (white rice, brown rice, or your favorite)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
- Salt to taste
Let’s Talk About Shrimp Selection
Choosing the right shrimp is crucial for this Shrimp White Rice Recipe. I always opt for large or jumbo shrimp because they tend to be juicier and hold their shape well during cooking. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they get a nice sear in the pan. Trust me, this step makes a big difference! When you’re thinking about serving your amazing shrimp, remember there are many wonderful Dishes To Serve Over Rice.
The Secret to Perfect Garlic Butter Sauce
Okay, friends, let’s get real: the garlic butter sauce is the STAR of this dish. The key is to not burn the garlic. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. Adding a splash of dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) really elevates the flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, don’t sweat it! Chicken broth will work just fine. And don’t forget the lemon juice – it adds a bright, tangy note that balances the richness of the butter.Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepare the Rice:
- Cook your rice according to package directions. I often use a rice cooker for foolproof results.
- Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork. You can stir in a tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt for added flavor, if desired.
- Keep the rice warm while you prepare the shrimp.
Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will make the sauce bitter.
- Pour in the white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan, or the shrimp will steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches.
- Stir in the lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon the cooked rice into bowls.
- Top with the garlic butter shrimp and plenty of the delicious sauce.
- Garnish with extra parsley, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Variations and Swaps to Make it Your Own
This Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own!- Spice it up: Add more red pepper flakes, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for a more complete meal. Spinach wilts in beautifully during the last minute of cooking.
- Make it creamy: For a Creamy Shrimp Over Rice experience, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Use different herbs: Try using fresh basil, oregano, or thyme instead of parsley.
- Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can easily substitute chicken, scallops, or even tofu.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice
While this dish is delicious on its own, it’s also great served with a side salad, steamed broccoli, or roasted asparagus. A crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up all that delicious garlic butter sauce! If you’re looking for other options, consider a light coleslaw to add some freshness.Tips for Storing and Reheating
Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over medium-low heat, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery.Other Delicious Shrimp Recipes to Try
If you love shrimp as much as I do, you’ll definitely want to check out these other fantastic recipes:- For a quick and flavorful meal, try these Shrimp Tacos. They are always a crowd pleaser!
- Indulge in the creamy goodness of Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. It’s as romantic as it sounds!
- Spice things up with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Crab Pasta. This dish is bursting with flavor.
- Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken & Linguine offers an alternative protein with a similar luscious sauce.
- For a decadent appetizer, Garlic Butter Baked Scallops are quick and elegant.
- And for the ultimate date night splurge, nothing beats Baked Lobster Tails With Garlic Butter.
Final Thoughts
This Shrimp Recipe With Rice is a winner in my book because it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, but it’s also elegant enough to serve to guests. So go ahead, give it a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! You’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal of Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice in no time.What kind of shrimp is best to use for this recipe?
Large or jumbo shrimp are recommended because they tend to be juicier and hold their shape well during cooking. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What is the key to making a perfect garlic butter sauce?
The key is to not burn the garlic. Keep the heat at medium and stir frequently. Adding a splash of dry white wine elevates the flavor, and lemon juice adds a bright, tangy note.
Can I add vegetables to the Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice?
Yes, you can! Sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can be added for a more complete meal. Spinach wilts in beautifully during the last minute of cooking.
How long can I store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice?
Leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp With Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Sauté pan
- Rice cooker or saucepan
- Fork
- Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup dry white wine optional
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice white, brown, or your favorite
- 1 tablespoon butter optional, for rice
- Salt to taste for rice
Instructions
- Cook rice according to package directions. Fluff with a fork and stir in 1 tablespoon of butter and a pinch of salt, if desired. Keep warm.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in white wine (if using) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it reduce slightly for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Stir in lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Remove the skillet from the heat.
- Spoon cooked rice into bowls.
- Top with garlic butter shrimp and sauce.
- Garnish with extra parsley, if desired. Serve immediately.
