If you have been searching for an irresistible meal that delivers layers of flavor in every bite, the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe is your new go-to dish. This recipe combines succulent shrimp bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce with fluffy jasmine rice, elegantly stacked for a presentation that’s as stunning as it is delicious. Each component shines individually, but together they create a harmony that will quickly become a favorite whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself on a cozy night in.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe shines because of the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each item plays a vital role, from enhancing texture to boosting the fresh, vibrant flavors that make this dish so memorable.
- Large shrimp (1 pound): Peeled, deveined, and tail-removed shrimp are perfect to soak up that garlicky butter sauce without any fuss.
- Cooked jasmine rice (2 cups): Soft, fragrant jasmine rice forms the perfect fluffy base to balance the rich shrimp topping.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds creaminess and helps carry the garlic and lemon flavors.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Fresh garlic infuses the dish with a bold, mouthwatering aroma and taste.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Creates the initial sear on shrimp and gently carries the garlic’s essence.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds subtle smokiness and a pop of color to the shrimp.
- Lemon zest (1 teaspoon) and lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Bring brightness and acidity to cut through the richness.
- Fresh parsley (2 tablespoons, chopped): Adds a refreshing herbal note and vibrant green color.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Optional red pepper flakes: For those who love a gentle kick of heat.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sauté the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your shrimp evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper; this simple step infuses great depth into the shrimp. Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until its fragrance fills your kitchen, hinting at the magic to come. Next, add the shrimp in a single layer and cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they turn a beautiful pink and opaque — the sign of perfectly cooked shrimp.
Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the remaining two tablespoons of butter along with lemon juice, lemon zest, and freshly chopped parsley. This step creates a silky sauce that clings lovingly to every shrimp. Remove the skillet from heat to keep all those fresh flavors at their peak.
Step 3: Assemble the Stack
To assemble your Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe, start by placing a ring mold or a small bowl upside down on a serving plate. Spoon warm jasmine rice into the mold, pressing gently to compact it without squashing the grains. Then, layer the garlic butter shrimp on top of the rice, spooning any remaining pan sauce for extra moisture and flavor. Carefully lift the mold or invert the bowl to reveal a stunning layered stack that looks restaurant-worthy!
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley isn’t just for looks — it adds a fresh burst of herbal brightness that complements the rich garlic butter sauce. For an extra touch of elegance and a subtle heat, dust the stack lightly with red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with vibrant side salads or simple steamed vegetables like asparagus or green beans to add a crisp, refreshing contrast. A crisp glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon can also elevate this meal to a special occasion.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the shrimp and rice in individual glass cups for a playful twist at parties or a dinner buffet. Alternatively, serve the stack alongside a smear of avocado puree or a drizzle of chili oil to introduce a creamy or spicy layer that dazzles the palate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers of this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe, keep the shrimp and rice separate in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This helps maintain the texture of both components, so they taste just as amazing the next day.
Freezing
The shrimp are best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze cooked shrimp and cooked rice separately for up to one month. Thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat gently to preserve their texture and flavor as much as possible.
Reheating
Reheat rice in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to bring back its fluffy texture. Warm the shrimp in a pan on low heat to avoid overcooking, gently stirring to coat them again with any reserved garlic butter sauce for that fresh-from-the-pan flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of rice in the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe?
Absolutely! While jasmine rice is preferred for its fragrant aroma and softness, basmati or brown rice work beautifully too, adding unique textures and flavors.
Is it possible to make the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or olive oil and ensure it still delivers rich flavor without compromising the buttery goodness.
How can I add more spice to this recipe?
Incorporate extra red pepper flakes during cooking or serve with a spicy chili sauce on the side to kick up the heat according to your preference.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Frozen shrimp can work well, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning to achieve the best sear and flavor.
What’s the best way to make this dish more substantial for a bigger appetite?
Adding a layer of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms between the rice and shrimp stacks can bulk up the meal with extra nutrition and flavor.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe—it’s straightforward to make yet so impressive in both taste and presentation. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or impress guests, this dish effortlessly brings together fresh, bold flavors wrapped in the comfort of buttery garlic goodness. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your cherished recipes in no time.
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack recipe featuring succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter served atop fragrant jasmine rice. This elegant yet easy-to-make dish combines simple ingredients for a delicious seafood dinner perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails removed
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional red pepper flakes for heat
Rice
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
Sauce and Garnish
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, season the peeled and deveined shrimp with paprika, salt, and pepper to taste. This adds a smoky and savory base flavor.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil along with 1 tablespoon of butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pink, opaque, and cooked through.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, lemon zest, and chopped parsley into the skillet with the shrimp. Toss everything gently to coat and then remove the skillet from heat.
- Assemble the Stack: Place a layer of warm cooked jasmine rice into a ring mold or small bowl and press gently to compact it. Top the rice with the garlic butter shrimp. Spoon some of the flavorful pan sauce over the top.
- Serve: Carefully lift the mold or invert the bowl to release the stack onto a serving plate. Garnish with additional parsley and optional red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Notes
- You can substitute jasmine rice with basmati or brown rice for variation.
- For extra richness, stir a bit of the garlic butter sauce into the cooked rice before stacking.
- Adjust red pepper flakes according to your preferred spice level.
