Garlic butter shrimp and rice stack is a restaurant-quality dish made easily at home. The combination of juicy shrimp, aromatic garlic butter sauce, and fluffy rice makes this a satisfying and elegant meal perfect for any occasion. The dish is not only packed with flavor but also easy to prepare in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
For the Rice:
- 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions
Cooking the Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
- Add the rice, butter, and salt. Stir once and reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the shrimp, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp. Toss to coat.
Assembling the Stack:
- Use a small bowl or ring mold to shape the rice into a neat stack on a serving plate.
- Carefully place the garlic butter shrimp on top of the rice.
- Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp and rice for extra flavor.
- Garnish with additional parsley and a lemon wedge on the side.
Tips & Variations
- Add Veggies: Include sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for added nutrition.
- Make it Spicier: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne pepper.
- Use Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a whole grain option.
- Alternative Protein: Swap shrimp for scallops, salmon, or chicken for a different twist.
Conclusion
This garlic butter shrimp and rice stack is an impressive yet simple dish that will become a staple in your meal rotation. With rich buttery garlic flavors and perfectly cooked shrimp, this meal is sure to impress family and friends. Enjoy!