If you're craving a dish that combines succulent shrimp with the rich, buttery goodness of garlic, look no further! This Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice recipe is not only a feast for the senses but also a quick and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this seafood delight is sure to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be savoring the flavors of the ocean in no time. Ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Seafood
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, 2 cups of cooked rice, 4 tablespoons of butter, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt and pepper to taste, and chopped parsley for garnish.
- In a large skillet, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to fully melt and start to bubble, but do not let it brown.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
- Once the garlic is fragrant, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season the shrimp with 1 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir well to ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the garlic butter and spices.
- Cook the shrimp for about 3-4 minutes on one side, then flip them over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the skillet from heat.
- In a separate pot or microwave, warm the 2 cups of cooked rice until heated through. This can take about 2-3 minutes in the microwave or a few minutes on the stovetop.
- Once the shrimp are fully cooked and the rice is heated, combine them by adding the rice to the skillet with the shrimp. Gently toss everything together to combine, ensuring the rice is coated with the garlic butter sauce.
- Serve the garlic butter shrimp and rice immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Use Fresh Shrimp: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh shrimp if possible. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
- Don’t Overcook the Garlic: Keep a close eye on the garlic while sautéing. It should be fragrant and slightly golden, but avoid burning it to prevent a bitter taste.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika for an extra kick.
- Customize the Rice: Feel free to jazz up the cooked rice by adding peas, bell peppers, or even a splash of lemon juice for added flavor.
- Garnish Generously: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish with a fresh, herbal note.
- Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after combining the shrimp and rice to maintain the perfect texture and flavor.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 220mg
