Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner)

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Why Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner) Is the Ultimate Quick Meal

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner) is the perfect recipe when you want something fast, flavorful, and satisfying. Tender shrimp simmered in rich garlic butter creates a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.

Ready in 15 Minutes

Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, and if your rice is pre-cooked or microwavable, this turns into a quick and effortless meal.

Rich, Savory Garlic Butter Flavor

The combination of melted butter and fresh garlic transforms simple shrimp into something indulgent and bold.

Budget-Friendly Yet Restaurant-Quality

This dish tastes luxurious while still being inexpensive and easy to make at home.

Ingredients You Need for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Best Shrimp to Use

  • Medium or large shrimp
  • Peeled and deveined for convenience
  • Frozen shrimp works perfectly—just thaw first

Garlic, Butter & Seasoning Essentials

  • Fresh garlic cloves
  • Salt and pepper
  • Italian seasoning or paprika
  • Lemon juice (optional but delicious)

Choosing the Right Rice

Any of these work well:

  • Jasmine rice
  • Basmati
  • Brown rice
  • Microwave-ready pouches for ultra-fast meals

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner)

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat shrimp dry and season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In a skillet:

  1. Melt butter
  2. Add minced garlic
  3. Cook until fragrant
  4. Add shrimp and sauté 2–3 minutes per side
  5. Finish with lemon juice or parsley

Step 3: Serve Over Hot Rice

Spoon your garlic butter shrimp and sauce over warm rice for a delicious, complete meal.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

Lemon-Garlic Twist

Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for brightness.

Spicy Cajun Garlic Shrimp

Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning before cooking.

Creamy Garlic Shrimp

Add ¼ cup heavy cream for a rich, silky sauce.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Every Time

Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cook quickly—once they turn pink and curl into a “C” shape, they’re done.

Use Freshly Minced Garlic

Pre-minced jarred garlic won’t give the same flavor punch.

How to Make Rice Extra Fluffy

Use a fork to fluff rice after cooking and avoid stirring too much.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Light Veggie Sides

  • Steamed broccoli
  • Garlic green beans
  • Roasted asparagus

Fresh Salads

  • Simple cucumber salad
  • Mixed greens with lemon dressing

Sauces & Toppings

  • Extra lemon wedges
  • Fresh parsley
  • Red pepper flakes

Meal Prep & Storage

Refrigerator Storage

Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezing Tips

Freeze shrimp separately from rice to prevent mushiness.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner)

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw under cold water and pat dry before cooking.

Can I make this spicy?

Absolutely—add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

What rice works best?

Jasmine or basmati tastes great, but any rice works.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, but butter gives the dish its iconic richness.

How do I meal prep this?

Cook rice and shrimp separately, then pack together in containers.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice (15-Minute Dinner) is the ideal quick meal: simple, flavorful, fast, and comforting. Whether you’re meal prepping or cooking a last-minute dinner, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Enjoy it any night of the week!

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