This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet delivers bold flavor with minimal effort, making it ideal for busy evenings. Tender shrimp, aromatic garlic, and fluffy rice come together in a single pan for a satisfying meal that feels special without extra steps. The balance of savory butter, bright lemon, and hearty rice creates a dependable dinner you can repeat all year. With smart timing and simple ingredients, this dish stays efficient while offering depth and comfort. If you value reliable results and clear technique, this recipe fits right into your weekly plan.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet (Fast, Flavor-Packed Dinner)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Garlic butter shrimp and tender rice cooked in a single skillet with bright lemon and savory aromatics.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 1/2 cups long-grain white rice
14 ounces crushed tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
2 cups frozen peas
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Chopped fresh parsley
Lemon slices
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil and cook onion until soft. Add garlic briefly.
2. Stir in rice, tomatoes, broth, peas, salt, and pepper. Simmer covered until rice is tender.
3. Sear seasoned shrimp in olive oil until lightly golden. Remove.
4. Cook butter and garlic, add broth and lemon juice, and simmer until reduced.
5. Fold shrimp into rice and steam briefly.
6. Spoon sauce over and garnish with parsley and lemon.
Notes
Reheat gently with extra broth. Add lemon after warming for best flavor.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Quick & Easy Dinners
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Why This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet Works
Flavor balance in Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
A strong garlic base builds aroma early, while crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth add body to the rice. Butter enriches the finish, and lemon juice lifts the final bite so the dish never feels heavy.
One-pan ease with Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Cooking rice and shrimp separately, then combining them, protects texture. You avoid mushy grains and rubbery seafood, yet everything still lands together seamlessly.
Weeknight value of Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
The method is direct, the timing is tight, and cleanup stays minimal. This approach keeps dinner on track without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients That Build Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet Flavor
Pantry staples for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Long-grain white rice absorbs broth evenly, while crushed tomatoes bring subtle sweetness. Olive oil supports sautéing without overpowering the aromatics.
Choosing shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Large shrimp cook quickly and remain juicy. Peeled and deveined pieces save time and ensure a clean presentation.
Rice and broth choices in Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Vegetable broth provides gentle depth. If you prefer a richer profile, a low-sodium option keeps seasoning in your control.
For hearty dinner inspiration beyond seafood, consider this comforting cheesy chicken tater tot bake when you want a baked alternative with bold flavor.
How to Cook Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet Perfectly
Timing shrimp in Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Searing shrimp briefly at high heat locks in moisture. Removing them early prevents overcooking while the sauce reduces.
Rice texture tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Once the rice simmers, keep the lid closed. Gentle steam finishes the grains evenly and preserves structure.
Garlic butter sauce for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Butter melts into garlic, broth, and lemon juice to form a glossy sauce. A short simmer concentrates flavor without splitting the fat.
Variations and Serving Ideas for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Vegetable swaps for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Frozen peas add color and sweetness. Spinach or chopped zucchini work well if added near the end.
Protein twists on Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
If you enjoy surf-and-turf flavors, a small amount of crisp bacon can be folded in for contrast, or explore creamy comfort with chicken bacon ranch tortellini on another night.
Side pairings for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
A simple green salad or roasted asparagus balances the richness and keeps the meal light.
Storage, Reheating, and Meal Prep with Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Refrigeration for Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to three days. Cooling quickly helps preserve texture.
Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet safely
Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. Low heat protects the shrimp from drying out.
Meal prep using Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Portion rice and shrimp together for quick lunches. Add fresh lemon after reheating for brightness.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet
Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen shrimp?
Yes. Fresh shrimp work well and may cook slightly faster. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
How do I store and reheat leftover shrimp and rice?
Keep portions chilled and reheat slowly with moisture. Avoid microwaving on high, which can toughen seafood.
Conclusion: Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet for Busy Nights
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Skillet proves that efficient cooking can still deliver satisfying flavor. With smart sequencing and dependable ingredients, you get consistent results and a dinner worth repeating. Keep it in your rotation for nights when time matters but quality still counts.
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