Pin Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, served over fluffy rice with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs for a vibrant, satisfying meal.
I love making this garlic butter shrimp rice bowl on busy weeknights because it's flavorful, filling, and feels special without much effort. There's nothing better than a warm bowl of garlicky shrimp after a long day!
Ingredients
- Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, 1/4 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Rice: 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (about 3/4 cup uncooked)
- Garlic Butter Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter, 4 cloves garlic (finely minced), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional), zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
- Garnishes: 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped), lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Season Shrimp:
- Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
- Prepare Garlic Butter:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil.
- Sauté Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp:
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
- Add Flavorings:
- Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and swirl to melt.
- Finish Cooking:
- Remove from heat.
- Assemble Bowls:
- Divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
- Serve:
- Top each bowl with the garlic butter shrimp and spoon some of the sauce over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
Pin 
Whenever I make this dish for my family, everyone races to the table. It's a favorite for both the cook and the eaters because it looks and tastes amazing with so little fuss.
Serving Suggestions
Add sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli for extra greens, or try brown rice or quinoa for a more wholesome grain base.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides about 375 calories, 15 g total fat, 35 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein, making it hearty and balanced for lunch or dinner.
Wine Pairing
This rice bowl pairs very well with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc that balances the lemon and garlic flavors.
Pin Enjoy this garlic butter shrimp rice bowl hot and fresh for the ultimate weeknight dinner! Leftovers reheat well for an easy next-day lunch.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of shrimp is best for this dish?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp work best as they cook evenly and remain succulent in the garlic butter sauce.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, jasmine or basmati rice are recommended for their fluffy texture, but brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for variation.
- → How do I avoid burning the garlic while sautéing?
Cook minced garlic over medium heat briefly, stirring often; remove from heat once fragrant to prevent bitterness.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes, adding the optional crushed red pepper flakes provides a gentle heat that complements the garlic butter without overpowering it.
- → What are good side options to serve with this dish?
Sautéed spinach, steamed broccoli, or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc pair wonderfully with the rich flavors.