Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake is a culinary delight that combines the rich flavors of tender shrimp and fluffy rice, enveloped in a symphony of aromatic herbs and spices. This dish is an epitome of comfort food, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for friends. The magic lies in its simplicity; with just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that is bursting with flavor.
Imagine this: perfectly cooked, juicy shrimp atop a bed of soft, fluffy rice immersed in a garlic and butter sauce that complements the shrimp’s natural sweetness. The inclusion of fresh parsley and a splash of lemon juice brightens the dish, making each bite delightful. Moreover, this dish adheres to gluten-free diets, making it an excellent choice for those looking to accommodate various dietary preferences.
The Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake not only prioritizes taste but also provides a hearty meal that nourishes the body. It’s great for any day of the week, whether you’re enjoying a casual weekday dinner or entertaining guests at a gathering. In short, this dish is not just a recipe; it’s a flavorful experience that brings warmth and satisfaction to the dining table!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake
- Flavorful Profile: The harmonious combination of garlic, butter, and seafood creates a mouthwatering experience that satisfies any palate.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and straightforward ingredients, you can whip up this dish with ease.
- Hearty and Filling: This recipe serves as a complete meal, packed with protein and carbohydrates to keep you satisfied.
- Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap the shrimp for your choice of seafood or even a plant-based protein, making it a versatile option for any dietary preference.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch over the weekend, and you have delicious lunches or dinners ready for the week!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen efficiently. Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F to ensure it is hot when you’re ready to bake. Gather necessary utensils and cookware, including a 9×13 inch baking dish, measuring cups, and a mixing bowl. You’ll also need a cutting board and a sharp knife to finely chop your onion and parsley, and a garlic press or knife to mince the garlic cloves.
To keep your workspace organized, lay out all your ingredients. This step minimizes the chance of misplacing an ingredient and helps streamline your preparation process. Remember to rinse the rice well, as this step removes excess starch, which can lead to gummy rice once it cooks. Having everything prepped beforehand will make cooking much more enjoyable and ensure a smooth flow in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or seafood broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Rice Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the rinsed long-grain rice, finely chopped onion, half of the minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to ensure that all the dry ingredients are well distributed throughout the rice.
Next, pour in the low-sodium chicken or seafood broth along with the fresh lemon juice. This will add depth and a refreshing flavor to the rice. Mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. This initial baking step allows the rice to absorb the flavorful broth.
Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp
While the rice is baking, take a moment to prepare your shrimp. In a mixing bowl, combine the seasoned shrimp with the remaining minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and, if you like a kick of heat, add the optional red pepper flakes for an added flavor dimension. Mix everything well, ensuring that the shrimp are thoroughly coated with the garlic and butter mixture.
Step 3: Combine and Finish Baking
After 25 minutes, carefully remove the baking dish from the oven. The rice should be fluffy and have started to absorb all the delightful liquid. Use a fork to fluff the rice gently, allowing some steam to escape while mixing. Arrange the seasoned shrimp evenly over the fluffed rice, ensuring every bite has a delightful taste of seafood.
Return the dish to the oven without the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. This allows the shrimp to cook through and turn a beautiful pink color, signaling they are perfectly done. Once finished baking, remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness, ready to serve!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute shrimp with chicken, scallops, or even a hearty plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Vegetables: Add a medley of vegetables such as bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like Cajun seasoning or herbs de Provence to change the flavor profile entirely.
Cooking Notes
- To prevent the rice from sticking, ensure you rinse it thoroughly before combining it with the other ingredients.
- For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of cream or coconut milk to the rice before baking.
- Adjust the cooking time based on your oven’s characteristics; every oven can have slight variations.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a fresh green salad drizzled with vinaigrette for a lovely contrast and added freshness.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up any delicious leftover sauce on the plate.
Tips
- For optimal flavors, let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before using.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! All the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it a safe option for gluten-intolerant individuals.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and consume them within three days.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to wipe up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake is a dish that impresses both in presentation and flavor, capturing the heart of comfort food. With its savory shrimp and aromatic rice, it becomes a go-to recipe that never disappoints. Whether it’s a family dinner or a meal for entertaining guests, this easy-to-follow recipe enables anyone to enjoy a gourmet experience at home. Don’t hesitate to try out variations with your favorite proteins or spices, and feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bake is a delicious blend of shrimp and rice flavored with garlic and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or seafood broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In your 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the rinsed long-grain rice, finely chopped onion, half of the minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir gently to ensure that all the dry ingredients are well distributed throughout the rice.
- Pour in the low-sodium chicken or seafood broth along with the fresh lemon juice. Mix everything together until the rice is evenly coated. Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- While the rice is baking, prepare your shrimp. In a mixing bowl, combine the seasoned shrimp with the remaining minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of melted butter, and optional red pepper flakes. Mix well.
- After 25 minutes, fluff the rice gently with a fork. Arrange the seasoned shrimp evenly over the fluffed rice.
- Return the dish to the oven without the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes. Once finished, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top.
Notes
Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving for optimal flavors. Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 25 g