Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack

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:

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil.
  3. Add the rice, butter, and salt. Stir once and reduce the heat to low.
  4. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Preparing the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil and butter.
  2. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Add the shrimp, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  5. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and sprinkle chopped parsley over the shrimp. Toss to coat.

Assembling the Stack:

  1. Use a small bowl or ring mold to shape the rice into a neat stack on a serving plate.
  2. Carefully place the garlic butter shrimp on top of the rice.
  3. Drizzle the remaining garlic butter sauce from the pan over the shrimp and rice for extra flavor.
  4. 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!

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