One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Rice: Dinner Done Easy

Introduction

Transform a weeknight dinner from mundane to magnificent with this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice recipe! This one-pan wonder takes minimal effort and time, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be difficult. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal.

Why This Works

This recipe shines because of its perfect balance of savory garlic butter, succulent shrimp, and fluffy rice. The one-pan method minimizes cleanup, while the readily available ingredients make it perfect for any night of the week. It’s a crowd-pleaser that delivers big on flavor with surprisingly little effort.

Key Ingredients

🍤 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
🍚 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
🌿 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
🧂 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1️⃣ Prep the ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Peel and devein the shrimp.

2️⃣ Sauté the garlic: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe skillet (at least 12 inches) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

3️⃣ Add the rice: Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat it with the garlic butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is lightly toasted.

4️⃣ Add the shrimp and liquid: Add 2 cups of water (or chicken broth for extra flavor) to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the shrimp. Bring to a boil.

5️⃣ Bake: Cover the skillet tightly with a lid or aluminum foil. Transfer the skillet to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C). Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the shrimp is pink and opaque.

6️⃣ Finishing touches: Remove the skillet from the oven and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the chopped parsley. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve immediately.

Handy Tips

• Substitute frozen shrimp: Thaw completely before cooking. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent steaming.
• Adjust garlic quantity: If you love garlic, add more! Start with 1-2 extra cloves and taste as you go.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough. They’re perfectly cooked when they turn pink and opaque.
• Use different herbs: Fresh chives, dill, or thyme would also be delicious additions.

Heat Control

The oven temperature is crucial for perfectly cooked rice and shrimp. 375°F (190°C) ensures even cooking without burning. If the rice seems to be drying out too quickly, slightly reduce the temperature. Check for doneness by inserting a fork into the rice; it should be tender and cooked through. The shrimp should be pink and opaque, and easily flake with a fork.

Crunch Factor

While this recipe focuses on tender rice and succulent shrimp, a slight toast to the rice in the beginning adds a pleasant textural contrast. The crunch comes from the slightly browned rice grains, not from any drying process.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Prep ahead: Mince the garlic and chop the herbs earlier in the day to save time.
• One-pan cleanup: Use an oven-safe skillet to minimize dishes. Line the skillet with foil for even easier cleanup.
• Flavor booster: A squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent dryness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

This dish isn’t typically given as a gift, but you could adapt the recipe for a potluck! Package individual servings in attractive disposable containers and tie with a ribbon.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the skillet along with the shrimp.
🌟 Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add the zest and juice of one lemon along with the parsley.
🌟 Mediterranean Shrimp: Include 1/4 cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes and 1/4 cup of crumbled feta cheese.
🌟 Coconut Shrimp: Substitute coconut milk for the water and add a teaspoon of curry powder.

Troubleshooting

• Dry rice: If the rice is too dry, add a little more water or broth while baking.
• Overcooked shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly. Remove from the oven as soon as they turn pink and opaque to prevent toughness.
• Burnt garlic: Use low to medium heat when sautéing garlic to prevent burning.

FAQ

• Can I use brown rice? Yes, but it will require a longer cooking time. Check package directions for cooking time and adjust accordingly.
• Can I substitute the shrimp? Chicken, tofu, or firm white fish could be used instead. Adjust cooking time as needed.
• How can I scale the recipe? Double or triple the recipe easily by increasing the quantities of all ingredients proportionally.
• Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free? The base recipe is gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, substitute the butter with olive oil or coconut oil.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice recipe is a true weeknight winner! We hope you enjoy this simple yet flavorful meal. Share your creations with us and let us know your favorite variations. Happy cooking!