Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Featured in: Quick Family Favorites

This dish features succulent shrimp lightly sautéed in fragrant garlic butter and olive oil, enhanced with a hint of crushed red pepper flakes for subtle heat. Served over fluffy jasmine or basmati rice, the meal is brightened with freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest, then garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges. Simple, satisfying, and quick to prepare, it offers a perfect balance of rich, savory flavors and fresh citrus notes that bring vibrancy to the plate.

Ideal for a weeknight dinner, this bowl can be customized by adding sautéed greens or switching rice varieties to suit dietary preferences. The combination of tender shrimp and aromatic rice creates a nourishing and flavorful experience, with buttery sauce tying all components seamlessly together.

Updated on Sat, 15 Nov 2025 09:33:00 GMT
Golden garlic butter shrimp rice bowl—fluffy rice topped with flavorful shrimp and herbs, ready to be enjoyed! Save
Golden garlic butter shrimp rice bowl—fluffy rice topped with flavorful shrimp and herbs, ready to be enjoyed! | suggestionsforever.com

Succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter, served over fluffy rice with a touch of lemon and fresh herbs for a vibrant, satisfying meal.

I first made this dish when I wanted a restaurant-worthy meal at home that didn't require much effort. The harmony of buttery garlic shrimp and fluffy rice always gets rave reviews at our dinner table.

Ingredients

  • Shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Rice: 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (about 3/4 cup uncooked)
  • Garlic Butter Sauce: 3 tbsp unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, finely minced; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional); zest and juice of 1/2 lemon
  • Garnishes: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

Season the shrimp:
Season the shrimp with salt and black pepper.
Prepare the skillet:
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with the olive oil.
Cook garlic:
Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
Cook shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque.
Add flavor:
Stir in the red pepper flakes (if using), lemon zest, and lemon juice. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and swirl to melt.
Remove from heat:
Remove from heat.
Assemble bowls:
Divide the cooked rice among four bowls.
Finish and serve:
Top each bowl with the garlic butter shrimp and spoon some of the sauce over the rice. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.
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Sharing this rice bowl is a weeknight tradition in my family and always brings everyone eagerly to the table. Even picky eaters delight in the savory garlic aroma wafting through the kitchen.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your garlic butter shrimp rice bowl with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc is a wonderful complement if you enjoy wine.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra lemon juice to refresh the flavors.

Allergen and Nutrition Info

This recipe is pescatarian-friendly and provides approximately 375 calories, 15 g fat, 35 g carbohydrates, and 26 g protein per serving. Always double-check ingredient labels to ensure safety for those with allergies.

Steaming hot garlic butter shrimp nestled on jasmine rice, a quick and easy American dinner recipe. Save
Steaming hot garlic butter shrimp nestled on jasmine rice, a quick and easy American dinner recipe. | suggestionsforever.com

Enjoy this easy shrimp rice bowl as a fresh and vibrant weeknight meal. It’s sure to become a regular favorite at your table.

Recipe Help & FAQs

How do I prevent shrimp from overcooking?

Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2–3 minutes per side. Remove promptly to avoid rubbery texture.

Can I use other types of rice for this dish?

Yes, jasmine or basmati rice works best for fluffiness, but brown rice or quinoa can also be tasty alternatives.

What can I add for extra flavor or texture?

Sautéed spinach or steamed broccoli make great additions, adding color and nutrition without overpowering the main flavors.

Is it possible to make a dairy-free version?

Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative like olive oil or vegan margarine while maintaining the garlic flavor.

How should I store leftovers for best freshness?

Keep shrimp and rice refrigerated in airtight containers and consume within 2 days to maintain flavor and texture.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Tender shrimp cooked in garlic butter atop aromatic rice with lemon zest and fresh herbs.

Prep Time
15 mins
Time to Cook
15 mins
Overall Time
30 mins
Created by Suggestions Forever Hannah Lewis


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine American

Makes 4 Serving Count

Diet Details No Gluten

Ingredient List

Shrimp

01 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
02 1/4 teaspoon salt
03 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Rice

01 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice (approximately 3/4 cup uncooked)

Garlic Butter Sauce

01 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
02 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
03 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
05 Zest and juice of 1/2 lemon

Garnishes

01 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
02 Lemon wedges for serving

Directions

Step 01

Season Shrimp: Season the shrimp evenly with salt and black pepper.

Step 02

Heat Butter and Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter along with olive oil.

Step 03

Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and oil; sauté for one minute until fragrant, avoiding browning.

Step 04

Cook Shrimp: Place shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.

Step 05

Add Seasonings and Butter: Stir in crushed red pepper flakes if using, then add lemon zest and juice. Add remaining tablespoon of butter and swirl to melt into sauce.

Step 06

Remove From Heat: Take the skillet off the heat to finish the sauce.

Step 07

Assemble Bowls: Divide the cooked rice evenly among four bowls.

Step 08

Top With Shrimp and Sauce: Place garlic butter shrimp on top of the rice and spoon sauce over each serving.

Step 09

Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over each bowl and serve with lemon wedges immediately.

Needed Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Cooking spoon or spatula
  • Rice cooker or saucepan
  • Measuring spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Allergy Notice

Review each ingredient to check for allergens. Ask a healthcare specialist if you're unsure.
  • Contains shellfish and dairy. Substitute butter with a plant-based alternative for dairy-free preparation.

Nutrition Info (per serving)

Details shown are for reference. Always check with your healthcare provider for advice.
  • Calories: 375
  • Fats: 15 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Proteins: 26 g