Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi over Rice is one of those dinners that always feels like a win in my kitchen. It’s quick to make, full of bold flavor, and just fancy enough to make a weeknight feel special. When I started cooking for my family in New York, I needed meals that didn’t take forever but still brought everyone running to the table. This one became an instant favorite.
The smell of garlic hitting the pan gets my kids to pause their cartoons, and the buttery sauce always makes my wife smile. It’s the kind of dish that proves simple food can still feel like a celebration. For another version that leans into that same flavor magic, try another take on garlic butter shrimp.
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What makes this shrimp scampi stand out
There are countless ways to make shrimp scampi, but this version of Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi over Rice hits that sweet spot between simple and special. It’s rich without being heavy, quick without feeling rushed, and balanced in every bite. The best part is how easily the ingredients come together into something that feels restaurant-worthy, right in your own kitchen.
- The garlic butter base creates a sauce that’s rich but not heavy.
- Fresh shrimp bring natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with lemon juice and parsley.
- Instead of wine, shrimp stock or chicken broth keeps the sauce savory and full-bodied.
- Rice acts as a blank canvas, letting the buttery sauce shine through.
- Everything cooks in under 30 minutes, making it one of those rare recipes that feels both effortless and special.
Ingredients and Prep Tips for Perfect Shrimp Scampi with Rice
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi over Rice starts with simple ingredients that deliver bold flavor. When everything’s prepped and ready before you start cooking, dinner comes together fast and clean. This recipe proves you don’t need fancy ingredients — just the right combination of fresh shrimp, garlic, and a little care in timing.
Ingredients that bring flavor
Here’s what makes this dish shine:
- Shrimp: Use large, wild-caught shrimp for the best texture and taste. Fresh or frozen both work — just thaw completely and pat dry.
- Garlic: Minced or pressed cloves release more flavor into the sauce.
- Butter and Olive Oil: The mix helps create a golden sear and rich sauce.
- Shrimp Stock or Chicken Broth: Adds depth without wine, keeping it family-friendly.
- Lemon Juice: Brightens the sauce and balances the richness.
- Rice: Jasmine or basmati rice complements the buttery sauce perfectly.
- Parsley: Freshly chopped for color and freshness.
- Red Pepper Flakes: A small pinch adds warmth without overpowering the garlic.
If you prefer lighter dinners, you can swap the rice for veggie noodles like in a lighter version using zucchini ribbons.
Prepping like a pro
Getting organized before the heat turns up makes the cooking process smoother and stress-free.
- Clean and Marinate the Shrimp: Peel, devein, and rinse under cool water. Toss them in olive oil, garlic, salt, and a touch of chili flakes. Let them rest for 20 minutes to absorb flavor.
- Cook Rice Ahead: Start your rice while the shrimp marinate. Keep it warm by covering the pot or placing it over very low heat.
- Chop Aromatics in Advance: Mince garlic and parsley before you start cooking — things move quickly once the pan gets hot.
- Set Up Ingredients Nearby: Keep butter, stock, and lemon juice within reach. This way, you won’t scramble while shrimp are sizzling.
- Check Your Pan Temperature: Medium heat is ideal. Too hot, and your garlic will burn; too low, and you’ll miss the sear that locks in flavor.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Over Rice
Equipment
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- small saucepan
- citrus juicer
- mixing spoon
Ingredients
- 1 lb wild-caught large shrimp, shells removed and deveined
- 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, pressed or minced
- 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
- 0.5 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 0.33 cup shrimp stock or chicken broth
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice (or juice from ½ lemon)
- 1 tbsp minced parsley
- 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
- 1 tbsp butter (for rice)
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 optional: minced garlic or parsley to season rice
Instructions
- Prepare the shrimp: Rinse and devein the shrimp, removing the shells. Drain well and transfer to a medium bowl.
- Marinate the shrimp: Add 2 tablespoons olive oil, half the minced garlic, ½ teaspoon kosher salt, and red pepper flakes. Toss well to coat. Let sit for 20 minutes at room temperature so the flavors can build.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1 to 1½ minutes per side, until they turn pink and lightly golden. Remove the shrimp and set aside on a plate.
- Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. Pour in the shrimp stock or chicken broth and lemon juice. Stir and let the sauce simmer for about 4 to 5 minutes, reducing slightly.
- Combine and finish: Return the cooked shrimp (with any juices) to the skillet. Stir in the last tablespoon of butter and the remaining ½ teaspoon salt. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce. Sprinkle with minced parsley and cook for another minute until everything is hot and glossy.
- Prepare the rice: While the shrimp cooks, warm 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan. Add the cooked rice and a pinch of salt. Stir to coat and heat through. You can keep it plain or season it lightly with minced garlic or parsley.
- Serve: Spoon the rice onto plates and top with the shrimp and sauce. Serve warm with lemon wedges or a sprinkle of extra parsley.
Notes
- Use shrimp stock or chicken broth instead of wine to keep this shrimp scampi family-friendly while still full of flavor.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp. They cook in just about a minute per side — once pink and firm, remove from heat.
- Simmer the sauce gently. Let the garlic butter mixture reduce slightly so it coats the shrimp without separating.
- Rice tip: Keep cooked rice covered until serving. You can season it lightly with minced garlic or parsley for extra aroma.
- Garnish right before serving with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
- Serve with steamed vegetables, roasted asparagus, or a simple green salad to round out the meal.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to two days and reheated gently on low heat.
Nutrition Facts
(Values are approximate per serving — based on 4 servings.)- Calories: 352 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 2 g
- Protein: 24 g
- Fat: 27 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 316 mg
- Sodium: 1597 mg
- Potassium: 124 mg
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Vitamin A: 508 IU
- Vitamin C: 10 mg
- Calcium: 173 mg
- Iron: 3 mg
For more hearty, satisfying seafood meals, take a look at my shrimp recipe guide featuring buttery, lemony variations that everyone in your family will love.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide: How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Over Rice
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi over Rice is all about timing and simplicity. Once you’ve prepped your ingredients, the cooking itself moves fast — less than ten minutes from pan to plate. This step-by-step guide helps you bring out the best flavor from every ingredient so your shrimp turn out juicy, your sauce silky, and your rice perfectly warm underneath.
Cooking the shrimp and building flavor
Here’s how to bring this dish together beautifully:
Warm the skillet: Add olive oil and heat over medium. You want the oil hot enough to sizzle the garlic but not burn it.
Sear the shrimp: Add marinated shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about one minute per side until they turn pink and lightly golden. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
Build the sauce: In the same pan, melt butter and add more garlic. Let it cook gently until fragrant. Stir in shrimp stock or chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping the pan to lift the brown bits — that’s flavor gold.
Thicken slightly: Let the sauce simmer for about four to five minutes, reducing just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Finish strong: Add the shrimp back to the pan along with the last bit of butter. Stir to coat, sprinkle parsley, and let it warm through.
If you enjoy quick, skillet-style dinners, check out this quick pasta dinner inspired by scampi flavors , it’s another easy meal with the same comforting taste.
Serving over rice and finishing touches
Once the sauce and shrimp are ready, it’s time to bring it all together.
- Prepare the rice: Warm cooked jasmine or basmati rice with a pat of butter and a pinch of salt. If you like, add a little minced garlic or parsley for extra flavor.
- Layer and serve: Spoon the rice into shallow bowls, top with shrimp and sauce, and finish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon.
- Add sides if you’d like: Steamed broccoli or a simple salad make great companions to balance the buttery sauce.
Variations, Tips, and Common Mistakes to Avoid
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi over Rice is already delicious as is, but a few small changes can transform it into something new each time. From creamy upgrades to fresh veggie add-ins, there’s plenty of room to play with flavor while keeping it simple and quick.
Flavorful twists and serving ideas
Want to give this shrimp scampi a personal touch? Try one of these ideas to make it your own:
- Add vegetables for color: Toss in a handful of baby spinach or halved cherry tomatoes at the end for extra freshness. They add brightness and make the dish feel lighter.
For a version that’s as colorful as it is tasty, try a colorful variation packed with spinach and tomatoes. - Make it creamy: Stir in two tablespoons of cream or a small knob of cream cheese before serving for a silky texture. For a richer pasta-style variation, check out a creamy pasta twist of this seafood favorite.
- Switch up the base: Use orzo, cauliflower rice, or linguine instead of traditional rice for a new spin.
- Add a citrus boost: A touch of lemon zest or an extra squeeze of juice brightens the buttery sauce instantly.
- Experiment with herbs: Fresh basil or chives add a unique, aromatic twist.
Each version keeps the essence of shrimp scampi — garlic, butter, and shrimp — while giving you options that fit your mood or what’s in your pantry.
Mistakes to avoid and expert fixes
Even the simplest recipes can go sideways if you rush. Here’s how to avoid the most common pitfalls and keep your shrimp scampi perfect every time:
- Overcooked shrimp: Shrimp only need about a minute per side. Once they’re pink and opaque, remove them from heat. Overcooking makes them tough.
- Burnt garlic: Keep the heat at medium. Garlic burns quickly and can turn the sauce bitter. Add it last when the butter melts for better control.
- Too much salt: If you’re using store-bought broth, choose low-sodium and taste before adding extra salt.
- Dry or sticky rice: Keep rice covered and warm before serving. A small pat of butter stirred in at the end helps restore moisture.
- Rushing the sauce: Let it simmer briefly so it thickens slightly. This makes the butter, broth, and lemon juice come together smoothly.
If you’re craving a one-pan option that makes cleanup easier, try a one-pan option for busy weeknights.
FAQs About Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Over Rice
Can I serve shrimp scampi over rice?
Absolutely. Serving shrimp scampi over rice lets the buttery garlic sauce soak into every bite, turning it into a complete and satisfying meal.
What’s the secret to a flavorful scampi?
The secret is timing — sauté garlic gently, don’t rush the sauce, and use fresh shrimp with real butter. Lemon juice and shrimp stock add brightness and depth.
What seasoning goes with garlic butter shrimp?
Garlic, parsley, black pepper, and a small pinch of red pepper flakes give shrimp scampi a balanced kick without overwhelming its buttery flavor.
How do you keep shrimp scampi from being rubbery?
Cook shrimp briefly on medium heat until pink and firm. Pull them off the heat right away — shrimp continue to cook for a few seconds after removing from the pan.
Why does my shrimp scampi taste bland?
It’s usually from skipping salt or rushing the sauce. Taste as you cook, and let the garlic butter mixture simmer so the flavors meld properly.
What pairs best with shrimp scampi?
Steamed vegetables, garlic bread, or a crisp salad pair beautifully. The light sides balance the richness of the sauce.
Is shrimp scampi always served over pasta?
No, while pasta is common, rice makes an excellent base. It absorbs the sauce better and keeps the dish lighter but filling.
What is poor man’s scampi?
It’s a simple shrimp or even white fish cooked in garlic butter without wine or specialty ingredients — quick, budget-friendly, and flavorful.
How do you eat shrimp scampi?
Scoop both the shrimp and the sauce with the rice or pasta. A slice of crusty bread works great for soaking up the leftover sauce.
How do you keep shrimp scampi from being rubbery?
Always cook shrimp just until opaque. High heat for too long tightens the meat, so watch closely during cooking.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Over Rice is one of those meals that never lets you down. It’s fast, comforting, and full of flavor that feels home-cooked yet restaurant-worthy. Every bite has that perfect mix of buttery garlic, tender shrimp, and soft rice soaking up the sauce.
I’ve made this dish dozens of times for my family, and it still disappears faster than anything else on the table. That’s what I love most about it — it brings everyone together, no matter how busy the day has been.
If you try this recipe, let me know how it turns out. And if you want to keep the shrimp love going, explore more ideas like a one-pan shrimp scampi for busy nights or a lighter version with zucchini ribbons.