If you’re craving something that feels fancy yet comes together in no time, you’ll adore this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe. Imagine tender, garlicky shrimp perched on a fluffy bed of jasmine rice, all layered into a perfect stack that’s both stunning and downright delicious. This dish strikes the ideal balance between rich buttery flavors, a hint of spice, and bright lemon notes that awaken your palate. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a beloved go-to for impressing yourself and your loved ones.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients are truly the secret to this dish’s magnificent flavor and texture. Each component plays its role, from creamy butter enriching the shrimp to the fragrant garlic and fresh parsley delivering vibrant color and aroma.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the savory flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds the luscious richness that makes the shrimp irresistible.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps balance the butter and prevents burning while cooking garlic and shrimp.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packed with flavor, it gives the dish its unmistakable punch and warmth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a gentle smokiness and beautiful color to the shrimp.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a subtle kick to awaken your taste buds without overwhelming heat.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out every other flavor.
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice: Light and fluffy, jasmine rice makes the perfect fluffy base for stacking.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brings brightness and acidity that cuts through the richness.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Adds freshness and a beautiful green contrast.
- Lemon wedges for serving: To squeeze over just before eating, elevating the dish even further.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp
Heat the butter and olive oil together in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add in the minced garlic and let it cook for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not browned—this gentle aroma makes all the difference. Stir in the paprika, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and pepper, creating that signature seasoning blend. Toss in the shrimp, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn that beautiful pink and curl up nicely. Finish this step by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and sprinkling chopped parsley for that burst of color and brightness.
Step 2: Shape the Jasmine Rice
While the shrimp cooks, have your cooked jasmine rice ready and warm. To create your rice stacks, lightly grease a small bowl or measuring cup to prevent sticking. Press a generous layer of rice firmly into the mold—this will form the solid base of your stack. The pressure ensures your stack holds together when you flip it onto a plate, making for a stunning presentation.
Step 3: Assemble the Stack
Once you’ve packed a layer of rice, carefully layer the garlic butter shrimp right on top. Then gently invert the bowl or measuring cup onto your serving plate and lift off the mold. Voila! A perfectly formed Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack that looks as gorgeous as it tastes. Don’t forget to garnish with extra parsley and place lemon wedges alongside to squeeze over at the table—those little touches make all the difference.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley sprinkled on top adds vibrant green color and a subtle earthy note that perfectly balances the garlic butter’s richness. Lemon wedges are a must—they impart a zesty fresh finish that elevates each bite. For an extra flourish, consider a light drizzle of garlic butter or a sprinkle of flaky sea salt just before serving.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines alongside simple, complementary sides. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette refreshes the palate, while sautéed or steamed vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or spinach add color and nutrition. If you want to keep it cozy, buttery dinner rolls or crusty bread are wonderful for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning dinner party, you can stack the rice and shrimp in elegant individual molds for a refined look. Another fun idea is layering in extra ingredients like sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes between the rice and shrimp layers for a twist on texture and flavor. Serving in wide shallow bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs around the plate creates a rustic yet polished feel that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers from your Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Shrimp is best eaten within 2 days for optimal flavor and texture. Keep the rice and shrimp layered if possible to preserve the integrity of the stack.
Freezing
While you can freeze cooked shrimp and rice separately, freezing the fully assembled stack is not recommended because the texture may suffer upon thawing. To freeze, place shrimp and rice in separate airtight containers and freeze up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat your shrimp and rice stack leftovers, gently warm in a skillet or microwave until heated through. If using a microwave, cover loosely to retain moisture and prevent drying out. A quick sauté of shrimp in a bit of garlic butter can refresh flavors if you have separated components.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry to avoid extra water in the pan, which can affect how well they sear and develop flavor.
What type of rice works best in this recipe?
Jasmine rice is ideal for its fluffy texture and aromatic qualities, but you can also try basmati rice for a nutty flavor that complements the garlic butter nicely.
Is this recipe spicy?
The optional red pepper flakes add a gentle heat, but you can omit them entirely if you prefer no spice. The dish remains flavorful and rich without a noticeable kick.
Can I add vegetables to the stack?
Yes! Layers of sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables work beautifully and add nutrition, texture, and a pop of color. Just be mindful to cook vegetables beforehand to avoid excess moisture.
How can I make this dish more indulgent?
For a richer twist on the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe, drizzle extra garlic butter over the top right before serving or add a sprinkling of freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Final Thoughts
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that brings bold flavor, beautiful presentation, and satisfying textures to your dinner table with minimal fuss. Whether you’re whipping it up for family or friends, it’s sure to become one of those dishes you come back to again and again. So, grab your skillet and get ready to enjoy a delicious stack that feels like a special treat any night!
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: Pescatarian
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is a flavorful, elegant main course featuring succulent shrimp cooked in garlic butter, paired with fragrant jasmine rice. It combines simple ingredients with quick stovetop cooking for a dish that’s both satisfying and visually impressive. Perfect for seafood lovers looking for an easy yet gourmet dinner.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Garlic Butter
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Rice Stack
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the garlic butter base: In a large skillet, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring the garlic doesn’t brown.
- Season the shrimp: Stir in the paprika, red pepper flakes if using, salt, and black pepper to the butter mixture to build flavor.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.
- Finish with lemon and parsley: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp, then sprinkle the chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Remove from heat.
- Assemble the rice stacks: Lightly grease a measuring cup or small bowl, then press a layer of warm jasmine rice firmly into it. Top with a portion of the garlic butter shrimp. Gently invert onto a serving plate and lift off the mold carefully.
- Garnish and serve: Add extra parsley on top for garnish and serve with lemon wedges on the side for additional brightness.
Notes
- For richer flavor, substitute jasmine rice with basmati rice or drizzle extra garlic butter on the stack before serving.
- Add a layer of sautéed spinach or your favorite sautéed vegetables between the rice and shrimp for extra nutrition and color.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
