Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is the kind of meal you make once and then crave forever. It’s indulgently buttery, brimming with garlicky goodness, and layered over fluffy rice for a satisfying and quick weeknight dinner. Think of it as your go-to recipe when you want something impressive but ridiculously simple to make. It’s ready in under 30 minutes and tastes like something from your favorite seafood restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fast and Fabulous: From start to finish, this dish takes less than 30 minutes. Perfect for a busy evening.
• Bold Flavors: Garlic and butter are the ultimate flavor duo. Add juicy shrimp and you’ve got a guaranteed hit.
• Minimal Cleanup: One pan for shrimp, one pot for rice. That’s it. Fewer dishes mean more relaxing after dinner.
• Visually Stunning: This stack presentation is fun and makes even a weeknight meal feel special.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Shrimp: Go for large, deveined shrimp. Tail-on or tail-off, your call. They cook fast and soak up flavors beautifully.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings the heat and depth. Don’t skimp!
• Butter: Unsalted is best to control the seasoning. This is your flavor base.
• Lemon juice: A splash adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter.
• Cooked Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice is ideal for fragrance and fluffiness.
• Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley for garnish and a pop of color.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste. Essential to enhance all the flavors.
• Paprika or Chili Flakes: Optional, for a hint of warmth or kick.

Variations

Add Veggies: Sauté some spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers with the shrimp for extra color and nutrition.

Try Different Grains: Swap rice for quinoa, couscous, or cauliflower rice if you want something lighter.

Make it Creamy: Stir a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk into the shrimp at the end for a luscious twist.

Herb Swap: Try dill, chives, or basil instead of parsley depending on your mood or what’s in the fridge.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Start by cooking your rice according to package directions. Fluff it up and keep it warm.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and stir constantly for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Toss in the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and paprika or chili flakes if using. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and curl up. Squeeze in the lemon juice and give it all a good stir.

Step 4: Stack and Serve

Use a ramekin or a small bowl to shape the rice. Pack it in, then flip it onto a plate. Spoon the garlic butter shrimp over the rice and drizzle some extra pan sauce on top. Sprinkle with parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly and get rubbery if left too long. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
• Use Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover rice, even better. It holds its shape beautifully when stacked.
• Butter Quality Matters: Use a good-quality butter for a richer flavor. European-style butter works wonders.
• Get Creative with Garnish: Try a lemon wedge, microgreens, or even a drizzle of sriracha for flair.

How to Serve

Serve this dish as a stacked plate for a dramatic presentation or simply spoon the shrimp and buttery sauce over a bed of rice. Pair with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus. A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the buttery richness perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Shrimp can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze the shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

What kind of rice works best for this recipe?
Jasmine and basmati are top choices for their aroma and texture, but any long-grain rice will do the trick.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative. The garlic and lemon still shine through beautifully.

Is this recipe spicy?
Not unless you want it to be. The heat level is up to you. Add chili flakes or hot sauce to taste.

Final Thoughts

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is the kind of dish that feels special but doesn’t demand much. It’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, it’s bound to become a regular on your dinner table. Give it a try and enjoy every buttery, garlicky bite!

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