Are you looking for a quick, easy, and delicious dinner solution? Look no further than these 20 mouth-watering shrimp and rice recipes! Shrimp and rice is a classic combination that never goes out of style, and with the variety of flavors and cuisines represented in this list, there’s something for everyone. From spicy Cajun to creamy coconut lime, these recipes will transport your taste buds around the world without ever leaving your kitchen.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a new twist on a familiar dish, shrimp and rice is a versatile combination that can be dressed up or down. And with the added bonus of being relatively quick to prepare and cook, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of shrimp and rice recipes, exploring everything from classic paella to bold and zesty cajun-inspired dishes. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice
A flavorful and easy-to-make dish that combines succulent shrimp with savory garlic butter and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Reduce heat to low and add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with a fork.
6. Serve the garlic butter shrimp on top of the flavored rice, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy cajun shrimp and rice dish, packed with succulent shrimp, savory spices, and a hint of heat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper.
5. Cook rice according to package instructions using chicken broth instead of water.
6. Serve shrimp over rice, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Shrimp and Rice
Add a tropical twist to your weeknight dinner with this flavorful and aromatic Coconut Lime Shrimp and Rice recipe. Perfect for a quick and easy meal that’s sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (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 until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
5. Stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut and lime juice. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the mixture is slightly thickened.
6. Serve the shrimp on top of the cooked rice, spooning some of the coconut-lime sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice Bowl
This sweet and savory recipe combines succulent shrimp with flavorful teriyaki sauce and fluffy Japanese-style rice, all wrapped up in a convenient bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (short-grain)
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, sake (or dry white wine), brown sugar, and grated ginger.
3. Heat 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour the teriyaki sauce mixture over the shrimp and simmer for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. To assemble, place cooked rice on a plate or bowl, top with cooked shrimp, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Herb Shrimp and Rice Pilaf
Brighten up your weeknight dinner with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and a burst of citrusy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in lemon juice, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the shrimp mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creole Shrimp and Rice Skillet
Experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this hearty one-pot dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch. This Creole-inspired skillet combines succulent shrimp, aromatic spices, and fluffy rice in a rich tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in paprika, cayenne pepper, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with tomato mixture.
6. Pour in chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low; cook until liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or scallions.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Shrimp Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and filling dish that combines the savory taste of shrimp with the comfort of fried rice, all in one satisfying bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables to the pan; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
5. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in 1 egg and scramble it with a spatula. Mix the egg into the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan; stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice Salad
Elevate your lunch or dinner with this flavorful and refreshing Mediterranean-inspired shrimp and rice salad. Combining succulent shrimp, nutty brown rice, and a medley of colorful vegetables, this dish is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked brown rice
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked (about 2-3 minutes per side).
3. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, cooked rice, and cooked shrimp.
4. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and nutritious recipe that combines succulent shrimp, savory rice, and sweet bell peppers. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 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
– Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°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, about 3 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with cooked rice, then top with shrimp mixture. Sprinkle paprika on top.
6. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curry Shrimp and Rice Casserole
This curry shrimp and rice casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that combines the flavors of Indian-inspired spices with succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a separate pan, sauté onion, garlic, and shrimp until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) in a small bowl.
5. Add the spice mixture to the shrimp mixture and stir to combine.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine cooked rice, shrimp mixture, peas and carrots, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
7. Dot the top with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Paella
A classic Spanish dish from Valencia, Paella is a flavorful combination of rice, seafood, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked Calasparra rice (or regular long-grain rice)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or paella pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink and just done.
4. Add rice, broth, saffron, paprika (if using), and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cilantro Lime Shrimp and Rice
This recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the earthiness of cilantro to create a deliciously unique shrimp dish. Serve it over fluffy rice for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white rice
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 cooked through.
3. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped cilantro, garlic, lime juice, and cumin. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss with the cilantro mixture.
6. Serve the shrimp over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Jambalaya
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this one-pot wonder, packed with succulent shrimp, savory rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp; cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add rice, water, tomato paste, and diced tomatoes; stir to combine.
6. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Tomato Basil Shrimp and Rice
Fresh shrimp, succulent tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in this quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and just 20 minutes of cooking, you’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed tomatoes (cherry and grape), halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Serve over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Risotto
A creamy and flavorful Italian-inspired dish, this Shrimp and Rice Risotto is a perfect combination of tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and savory aromas. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until rice is lightly toasted.
6. Gradually add water, stirring constantly, and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18-20 minutes or until rice is tender.
8. Add shrimp and white wine (if using), and cook until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
9. Stir in tomato paste and season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Soup with Coconut Milk
This creamy soup is a flavorful twist on traditional shrimp and rice dishes. With the richness of coconut milk, this recipe is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Stir-Fry
This easy-to-make stir-fry is a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add the onion and garlic and cook until the onion is translucent, about 1 minute.
5. Add the bell peppers and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Return the shrimp to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
8. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Cakes with Spicy Mayo
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful fusion of crispy rice cakes, succulent shrimp, and creamy spicy mayo. Perfect for a quick bite or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions with salt and sugar.
2. Mix cooked rice with panko breadcrumbs, vegetable oil, and a pinch of salt.
3. Shape into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
4. Pan-fry rice cakes until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Marinate shrimp in soy sauce and sesame oil for at least 15 minutes.
6. Pan-fry shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
7. Assemble by placing a fried shrimp on top of a rice cake, then drizzle with spicy mayo.
8. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Shrimp and Rice Burrito Bowls
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burritos, these shrimp and rice bowls are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, and crunchy vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp, onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the shrimp are pink and fully cooked (about 3-4 minutes).
3. Stir in the cumin and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve the shrimp mixture over cooked white rice in a bowl.
5. Add your choice of toppings and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Shrimp and Rice with Black Beans and Corn
This flavorful one-pot dish is a perfect blend of protein, fiber, and flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp; cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Add the rice, water, black beans, and corn; stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a seafood lover’s paradise! This article presents 20 mouthwatering shrimp and rice recipes that are perfect for dinner. From classic garlic butter to bold flavors like spicy Cajun and curry, these dishes offer a variety of twists on this comforting combination. Try the Teriyaki Shrimp and Rice Bowl or the Mediterranean Shrimp and Rice Salad for a taste of the exotic. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and easy or hearty and filling, there’s a shrimp and rice recipe here to satisfy your cravings.
