Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice is a mouthwatering fusion of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, fluffy rice, and rich buttery goodness. This dish delivers the perfect balance of savory, slightly smoky, and comforting flavors, making it ideal for quick weeknight dinners or an impressive meal for guests. With simple ingredients and a short cooking time, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in minutes.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Shrimp
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
For the Fried Rice
3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, diced
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
1 tsp sesame oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
1. Pat shrimp dry and season with paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large pan over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 20–30 seconds).
4. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice if desired.
6. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
2. Make the Fried Rice
1. In the same pan, melt 2 tbsp butter.
2. Add onions and cook until soft.
3. Stir in mixed vegetables and cook until warmed through.
4. Push vegetables to one side and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until set.
5. Add cooked rice and break apart any clumps.
6. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil.
7. Add back the shrimp and toss everything together.
8. Stir in green onions and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Serve
Serve hot with extra green onions or a squeeze of lemon.
Origin & Cultural Significance
Fried rice originated in China, where it became a clever and delicious way to repurpose leftover rice. Over time, every region developed its own version—Thai, Japanese, Filipino, Indonesian, and more. Garlic butter shrimp fried rice blends Asian fried rice tradition with Western influences like garlic butter shrimp scampi. The result is a harmony of flavors that reflects global culinary exchange and the modern love for fusion comfort foods.
Description
This dish features juicy, golden garlic-butter shrimp layered over savory fried rice that absorbs rich butter, soy sauce, and aromatic vegetables. Each bite is a mix of tender shrimp, warm spices, and fluffy rice—rich, satisfying, and incredibly fragrant. It’s visually appealing with its vibrant vegetables and golden shrimp, making it as beautiful as it is delicious.
Optional Additions
Chili flakes or sriracha for heat
Pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast
Fresh ginger for extra aroma
Crispy fried shallots for crunch
A splash of fish sauce for deeper umami
Spinach or bok choy stirred in at the end
Tips for Success
Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice becomes mushy.
Cook shrimp quickly to keep them tender and juicy.
Don’t overcrowd the pan—it prevents proper frying.
Butter + high heat = wonderful smoky flavor, but avoid burning the garlic.
Season in layers—shrimp, vegetables, rice, then final adjustments.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving, 4 servings)
Calories: 420–480
Protein: 28g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: depends on soy sauce used
(Values vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.)
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy meal that beautifully blends comfort and elegance. It’s ideal for busy days, special dinners, or anytime you crave a quick yet impressive dish packed with texture and taste.
Recommendation
Pair this dish with a light cucumber salad, steamed greens, or miso soup for a balanced meal. It also tastes fantastic with a squeeze of lime or a drizzle of chili oil for added brightness.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe proves that indulgence can be wholesome. Using lean shrimp, vegetables, and just enough butter for flavor, you enjoy a rich, comforting dish without heaviness. It celebrates mindful cooking—where simple ingredients become exceptionally delicious through balance, technique, and love.