Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice Stack is a flavorful and elegant meal that combines succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic butter with perfectly cooked rice, layered into beautiful stacks. It’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal dinner for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Garlic Butter Mixture
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Rice Base
- 1 1/2 cups cooked white rice (or brown rice)
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt to taste
Additional Tools and Garnish
- 4 small round molds (or an empty tuna can with both ends removed)
- Extra parsley or lemon wedges for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: In a pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat, then add the cooked rice and season with salt. Stir occasionally until the rice is warm and infused with butter flavor, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Stir in the lemon juice and remove from heat.
- Assemble the Stacks: Place the round molds on serving plates. Spoon a layer of the warm buttery rice into the bottom of each mold and press gently to form a solid base. Then layer the cooked garlic butter shrimp over the rice, pressing slightly to create the stack.
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the molds to reveal neatly stacked rice and shrimp. Garnish each stack with chopped fresh parsley and optional lemon wedges. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and presentation.
Notes
- Use cooked rice that is slightly chilled or room temperature so it holds shape better when stacking.
- You can substitute brown rice for a healthier option but cooking time may vary.
- To keep shrimp tender, avoid overcooking; they cook quickly once added to the skillet.
- Round molds can be replaced with small ramekins or ring molds for presentation.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick if desired.
