Get ready to dive into a culinary adventure! Shrimp and rice, a match made in heaven, is a staple combination that can be elevated to suit any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delectable shrimp and rice recipes that are sure to impress.
From spicy Thai-inspired fried rice to creamy risottos and hearty jambalayas, our collection has something for everyone. And the best part? Each recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the star of the show: succulent, flavorful shrimp paired with a medley of aromatic rice varieties.
So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking! In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of shrimp and rice recipes, from classic comfort food to exotic international flavors. Which one will you try first?
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
This flavorful and aromatic dish is a perfect combination of succulent shrimp, savory garlic butter sauce, and fluffy rice. It’s an easy-to-make meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the garlic butter sauce for an additional minute.
6. Serve the shrimp over the cooked rice and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet
A hearty one-pot dish that combines succulent shrimp, flavorful Cajun seasoning, and tender rice for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and paprika; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the shrimp mixture.
7. Pour in the chicken broth and stir until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is heated through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp with Jasmine Rice
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, fragrant jasmine rice, and a zesty lemon herb sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
– 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, parsley, and dill. Pour sauce over shrimp; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve shrimp over jasmine rice. Dot with butter and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Thai Shrimp Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic fried rice, this dish combines succulent shrimp with a medley of vegetables and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (red, yellow, green), sliced
– 2 teaspoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in curry paste and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry rice with the vegetable mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and stir-fry for another minute.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Coconut Shrimp and Rice Pilaf
A tropical twist on a classic combination, this recipe brings together succulent shrimp, flavorful rice, and the richness of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. In a separate pot, combine the rice, coconut milk, ginger, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. To serve, place the shrimp on top of the pilaf and garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Stuffed Peppers
These vibrant peppers are filled with a savory mixture of succulent shrimp, flavorful rice, and aromatic spices, making for a satisfying and healthy meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat.
4. Mix cooked rice with chopped onion, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Stuff each pepper with the shrimp-rice mixture, followed by a sprinkle of cheese (if using).
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Creole Shrimp and Dirty Rice
This hearty dish combines succulent shrimp with a flavorful one-pot dirty rice, infused with the bold spices of Creole cuisine. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
2. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done (2-3 minutes per side).
3. Stir in Creole seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Add cooked rice, chicken broth, and tomato paste. Mix well to combine.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice Bowl
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this easy-to-make Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice Bowl recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (such as short-grain rice)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the shrimp according to package instructions or grill until pink and cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
4. Serve the shrimp on top of cooked Japanese-style rice, spooning some of the teriyaki sauce over the top.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto dish combines succulent shrimp with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through.
5. In a separate pot, bring broth to a simmer.
6. Gradually add rice to the skillet with the mushroom mixture, cooking and stirring constantly.
7. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed.
8. Reduce heat to low; add 1/2 cup broth and stir until absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2-cup increments and waiting for it to be absorbed before adding more.
9. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice Salad
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing shrimp and rice salad, perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, shrimp, red bell pepper, cucumber, feta cheese, and olives.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Paella
Paella, a classic Spanish dish, is a flavorful and aromatic rice-based meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This shrimp and rice paella recipe combines succulent shrimp with saffron-infused rice, vegetables, and spices to create a mouthwatering main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, tomatoes, etc.)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large paella pan or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Add rice, water, saffron mixture, salt, and pepper to the pan. Stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
7. Serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cheesy Shrimp and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines succulent shrimp with fluffy rice, melted cheese, and a hint of garlic for a satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add shrimp and peas and carrots; cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Combine cooked rice, shrimp mixture, and cheese in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Jambalaya
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp with flavorful rice, tomatoes, and spices for a hearty and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Serve shrimp mixture over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Soup with Lemongrass
This fragrant and flavorful soup combines the sweetness of shrimp with the warmth of lemongrass, all wrapped up in a comforting bowl of rice. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the shrimp, chicken broth, lemongrass, and rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the shrimp are pink.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
7. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Stir-Fry with Vegetables
A quick and flavorful stir-fry that combines succulent shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and fluffy rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., broccoli, carrots, snap peas)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, oyster sauce, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Add the bell pepper, onion, and garlic to the skillet; stir-fry for 3-4 minutes or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Combine cooked rice with the shrimp and vegetable mixture; season with salt, pepper, and optional sauces if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Burrito Bowl
A flavorful and filling meal that combines succulent shrimp with savory rice and your favorite toppings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and fully cooked.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until softened.
5. Stir in the cumin and paprika. Cook for an additional minute.
6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Divide the shrimp and rice mixture among bowls or burrito wraps. Add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
Brighten up your dinner plate with this flavorful recipe featuring succulent shrimp, savory rice, and juicy tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp, diced
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix cooked rice with shrimp, cheese, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each tomato half with the shrimp-rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Rice with Black Beans and Corn
This recipe combines succulent shrimp, flavorful black beans, sweet corn, and savory rice in one delicious pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice, water, black beans, and corn; stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Add shrimp; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry is a staple of Southeast Asian cuisine, made with succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and the richness of coconut milk. Serve over steamed basmati rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups water.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in curry powder, then pour in coconut milk.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Serve shrimp mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Rice with Pineapple Salsa
A flavorful and refreshing twist on classic shrimp and rice, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with a zesty pineapple salsa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in pineapple chunks, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
5. Serve shrimp over cooked rice with pineapple salsa spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for a flavorful and filling meal that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further! This article shares 20 mouth-watering shrimp and rice recipes that are sure to please. From classic combinations like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice to international-inspired dishes like Spicy Thai Shrimp Fried Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy skillet meal, these recipes offer a variety of options to suit your taste and schedule.
