Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Stack is perfect for home cooks craving a quick and satisfying meal with layers of flavor. It brings together tender shrimp cooked in garlic butter and a savory rice base infused with soy and sesame oil for depth and warmth.

This recipe came together on a busy night when I wanted something quick but special. It quickly became a favorite for effortless weeknight dinners that feel a little luxurious.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: peeled and deveined for ease and to ensure a succulent bite every time. Choose fresh or thawed if frozen
• Unsalted butter: for rich flavor without overpowering saltiness. Real butter adds a silky sauce base
• Garlic: adds fragrance and punch Use fresh cloves, not pre-minced for best taste
• Salt and black pepper: to bring out and balance the flavors
• Rice: long grain or jasmine rice holds texture well when cooked in broth
• Chicken broth: infuses rice with savory umami more than plain water would
• Soy sauce: boosts the umami and adds a touch of saltiness Choose naturally brewed for better depth
• Sesame oil: contributes a toasted nuttiness that elevates the flavor profile
• Garlic powder: complements the fresh garlic in shrimp and layers the taste

Instructions

Build The Rice Base:

Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Stir well to combine everything evenly. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer for about 20 to 25 minutes until the rice absorbs all the liquid and is tender. This slow cooking infuses the rice with rich flavor and perfect texture

Sauté Garlic Butter Shrimp:

While the rice cooks, melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium high heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for one minute until you can smell its aroma. Quickly add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn opaque and pink. This quick cooking keeps the shrimp tender and buttery

Assemble The Stack:

In your serving dish or individual plates, layer the warm cooked rice, then top with the garlic butter shrimp. Serve immediately while the butter is still glossy on the shrimp. If you like, add a garnish of fresh parsley or green onions to brighten the dish visually and with a hint of freshness

The garlic butter shrimp is hands down my favorite element. The buttery sauce with garlic makes simple shrimp feel indulgent. Serving it atop that flavorful rice makes it a meal that always feels cozy and satisfying in my kitchen

Storage tips

Store leftover shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Reheat the rice with a splash of water and gently warm shrimp in a skillet or microwave to avoid toughening. Best consumed within 2 days for freshness

Ingredient swaps

You can swap chicken broth for vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian friendly but keep the soy sauce and butter for richness Butter can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option though the flavor will shift slightly Use brown rice for a nuttier, chewier base but increase cooking time and broth accordingly

Serving ideas

Pair this Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Stack with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through richness and add freshness Drizzle a little extra sesame oil or sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving for an extra layer of flavor and texture A squeeze of lime on the shrimp brightens the dish and balances the buttery sauce beautifully

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Stack brings a perfect balance of flavors that make for a delightful meal any night of the week.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2–3 minutes per side, to keep them tender and juicy.

→ Can I use a different type of rice for this dish?

Yes, medium or long-grain white rice works well. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on rice variety.

→ What can I substitute for chicken broth in the rice?

Vegetable broth or water with a pinch of salt can be used, though broth adds richer flavor.

→ Is it necessary to use unsalted butter?

Unsalted butter allows better control over seasoning; if using salted butter, reduce added salt accordingly.

→ How can I add more depth to the garlic flavor?

Lightly sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant without browning before adding shrimp for a richer aroma.