If you’re on the hunt for a dinner that’s quick, delicious, and downright comforting, this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce perched atop fluffy, aromatic rice, all coming together to create a dish that’s as elegant as it is easy. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend treat, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures that invite you to savor every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient has been carefully chosen not just for flavor but for the way they work in harmony—bringing butter’s richness, garlic’s punch, and fresh herbs’ brightness to the forefront, while the rice provides a comforting base.
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Fresh or thawed shrimp work best for that tender, juicy seafood bite.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds creamy richness and helps build the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Prevents the butter from burning and gives a smooth sautéing medium.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): The star flavor packed with aromatic punch.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings warmth and subtle smoky notes to the shrimp.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice: Brightens and balances the richness with fresh acidity.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Brings a pop of color and a herby finish.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice: Choose your favorite aromatic rice for the perfect fluffy base.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): For a savory twist and extra depth of flavor.
- Lemon wedges for serving: They add a zesty squeeze to awaken every bite.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This simple step ensures they’ll sear beautifully without steaming. Heat a skillet over medium heat, then melt the butter with olive oil. As soon as the butter foams, add the minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant, about 30 seconds—don’t let it brown or it will taste bitter.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Next, stir in your shrimp along with paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the shrimp cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn that beautiful pink and become opaque. This quick cooking locks in their juiciness while coating them with the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
Step 3: Finish the Sauce
Add fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley straight into the pan, swirling everything to combine those vibrant, fresh notes with the rich sauce. Then, remove from heat to keep the shrimp perfectly tender.
Step 4: Assemble the Stack
While your shrimp cooks, warm your cooked rice. To create the stack, pack the rice firmly into a small bowl or measuring cup, then invert it onto your serving plates. Spoon the garlic butter shrimp generously on top and drizzle any remaining pan sauce over the whole stack. If you like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra savory touch. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for that final burst of citrus.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Garnishes
Think beyond the basics and add a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. A dusting of Parmesan cheese not only enhances flavor but adds a lovely texture contrast. Don’t forget the lemon wedges—squeezing fresh lemon over the dish right before eating brings all the flavors alive.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with crisp green vegetables like sautéed asparagus or a fresh arugula salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a light cucumber and tomato salad with vinaigrette to cut through the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests or make weeknight dinners feel special? Try stacking the rice and shrimp in a ring mold for a refined look, or serve everything family-style in a pretty serving bowl where everyone can dig in. You can also layer the shrimp and rice in clear glasses for a fun “deconstructed” presentation that’s perfect for parties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, tightly cover your shrimp and rice separately and store them in the fridge for up to two days. This helps maintain the shrimp’s texture and keeps the rice fluffy without getting soggy.
Freezing
While the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe tastes best fresh, you can freeze cooked shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating gently; however, the texture might be a bit less tender after freezing.
Reheating
Reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking. Warm the rice covered in the microwave or in a pan with a sprinkle of water to keep it from drying out. Mixing the two back together when warming can help recoat the rice with that delicious garlic butter flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sauté evenly and get a nice sear.
Is it okay to use brown rice instead of jasmine or basmati?
Yes, brown rice works well for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, though the texture will be a bit heartier compared to the fluffy jasmine or basmati.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Definitely! Stirring in some fresh spinach, peas, or even diced bell peppers when you add the parsley can boost nutrition and add lovely color to your Garlick Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
Parmesan adds a lovely umami boost, but it’s completely optional. If you’re dairy-free or prefer to keep it lighter, the dish is perfection without it.
How spicy is this dish?
As written, it’s mild and family-friendly. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp or add a dash of cayenne pepper to the garlic butter sauce.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe is such a special one to keep in your cooking arsenal. It comes together so quickly, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious and comforting without a lot of fuss. Once you try this, you’ll find yourself making it again and again—it’s just that good! So go ahead, gather those simple ingredients and treat yourself to a dinner that feels like a celebration every time.
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Seafood
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A simple and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, layered atop fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, and garnished with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese. This quick stovetop recipe delivers a delicious seafood main course perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Rice and Garnish
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly using paper towels to remove excess moisture, ensuring they sear properly during cooking.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter along with the olive oil to combine richness and prevent the butter from burning.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet along with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Add Finishing Touches: Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley for brightness and fresh flavor, then remove the skillet from heat to avoid overcooking.
- Assemble the Stack: Press the warm cooked rice firmly into a small bowl or measuring cup, then invert onto individual serving plates to create a compact rice base.
- Top and Garnish: Spoon the garlic butter shrimp evenly over the rice stacks, drizzle with any remaining pan sauce, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side for added zest.
Notes
- For a healthier variation, substitute the white rice with brown rice or cauliflower rice.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp for a spicy kick.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or peas into the rice for extra nutrition.
- Best served immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently to maintain texture and flavor.
