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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is a speedy yet flavorful favorite that comes together easily for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Tender shrimp in a garlicky butter sauce are stacked over savory, fluffy rice, creating a dish that is as comforting as it is eye-catching.
I whipped this up for a last minute family meal when I was short on time. The scent of garlic butter drew everyone to the kitchen before I even plated the stacks.
Ingredients
- Shrimp: peeled and deveined for convenience and quick cooking, choose firm shrimp with a slight sheen
- Unsalted butter: gives richness and lets you control salt quality, European butter has an extra creamy taste
- Fresh garlic: minced for real depth, always pick firm bulbs with tight skin for the best flavor
- Salt: brings out all the savory notes, choose fine sea salt for even seasoning
- Black pepper: adds heat, use freshly ground for the most punch
- Rice: the base of the stack, opt for long grain or jasmine for fluffy results, rinse before cooking to prevent stickiness
- Chicken broth: infuses the rice with savory undertones, look for low sodium to avoid overpowering saltiness
- Soy sauce: delivers umami and tang, choose a good quality brewed soy sauce
- Sesame oil: lends warmth and a nutty aroma, toasted is ideal
- Garlic powder: doubles down on flavor, pick one that smells fresh and vibrant
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
- Bring chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Once boiling, stir in the rice, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic powder. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover with a lid, and let it steam gently for twenty to twenty five minutes. Do not lift the lid too early so the grains stay perfectly tender and full of flavor.
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- While the rice cooks, set a large skillet over medium high heat. Add butter and let it melt until foaming just begins. Add minced garlic and let it sizzle for around one minute, stirring constantly until your kitchen fills with the scent of garlic. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper. Let them cook for two to three minutes on each side until they are pink, firm, and just cooked through. Avoid stirring too much so each shrimp gets a buttery sear.
- Assemble the Stack:
- Fluff your cooked rice with a fork. In your serving dish, layer a generous mound of rice and spoon the warm garlic butter shrimp right over the top. Pour any buttery sauce left in the pan over for added richness.
- Serve:
- Bring the dish straight to the table and serve immediately while everything is hot.
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The shrimp is what I look forward to most. My kids always try to sneak the extra buttery sauce for dipping bread. Last year we made this for my sister’s birthday and everyone asked for second helpings.
Storage Tips
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For best texture, reheat the shrimp separately in a pan to maintain their tenderness. The rice can be microwaved with a splash of extra broth to keep it fluffy.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you prefer, you can use scallops or chunks of white fish in place of shrimp. For a different grain, swap the rice for cooked quinoa or couscous. Vegetable broth works as a swap if you want to keep it pescatarian.
Serving Suggestions
Bring some fresh crunch and color with a side salad of cucumber and radish or serve with steamed broccoli. You can also top each stack with chopped scallions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor.
Cultural Context
Garlic butter shrimp is a popular combination in many cuisines from American steakhouse classics to Southeast Asian comfort favorites. Stacking it over rice makes it a full meal and gives a nod to both Asian and Mediterranean family tables.
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This dish will quickly become a staple when you need something cozy yet impressive. It delivers flavor without fuss and always wins over family and guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What kind of shrimp are best for this dish?
Medium to large peeled, deveined shrimp work best for even cooking and optimal flavor.
- → Can I replace the rice with another grain?
Yes, quinoa or couscous can be used as a substitute for rice to suit different preferences.
- → How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the shrimp while sautéing for extra heat.
- → What sides go well with this stack?
Try serving with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- → How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, usually after 2-3 minutes per side.
- → Can I prepare parts of this dish ahead?
You can cook the rice ahead and store it, then prepare and assemble everything before serving.