Meal Prep Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice: A Quick, Flavorful Dinner Solution

If you’re looking for a no-fuss, flavor-loaded dinner that holds up beautifully in the fridge all week, Meal Prep Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice might just be your new go-to. It delivers everything we love in a meal prep recipe: balanced ingredients, easy technique, and bold flavors that don’t fade after day one. Between the buttery shrimp, fragrant garlic, fluffy rice, and juicy peas, every bite tastes like it came straight from your favorite bistro—but you made it in under 30 minutes in your own kitchen.

There’s something about this combination that feels elevated, yet it couldn’t be simpler to pull together. Whether you’re meal prepping for work lunches or stocking the fridge for weeknight dinners, this shrimp and rice dish checks every box. Let’s dive into what makes it so satisfying—and why you’ll want to add it to your rotation immediately.

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Why Meal Prep Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice Is a Game Changer

Shrimp and rice: the perfect balance of flavor and ease

Shrimp and rice may sound basic, but when you build them the right way, they become something truly special. The rice here isn’t just a filler—it’s cooked in crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and broth, soaking up layers of savory flavor. Paired with golden-seared shrimp tossed in a lemony garlic butter sauce, you get a meal that’s fresh, comforting, and crave-worthy. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light and nourishing.

One-pan simplicity for busy weeknights

Meal prep should never feel like a chore. What makes this Meal Prep Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice so brilliant is how efficiently everything comes together. You’ll build the rice right in the sauté pan, while the shrimp and garlic butter sauce cook in a second pan. Two burners, one cutting board, and 25 minutes later, your kitchen smells like heaven—and your prep for the week is done. This is exactly the kind of quick dinner recipe that’s earned its place in our regular rotation.

The joy of garlic butter done right

Garlic butter can make almost anything taste better—but when it’s done with a splash of lemon and just the right amount of simmer, it transforms shrimp into something spectacular. The sauce here is simple but rich, with mellow garlic flavor and buttery depth that coats every bite of shrimp without overpowering it. It’s this final drizzle that takes the dish from good to unforgettable.

Ingredients That Elevate This Shrimp Meal Prep

Why white rice works beautifully here

White rice has a bad rap sometimes, but in this recipe, it earns its keep. It cooks quickly, absorbs flavors effortlessly, and provides a light base that lets the garlic butter shrimp shine. The rice is first toasted with garlic and onions—building depth—before simmering with crushed tomatoes and broth. The result? A beautifully fluffy, tomato-scented rice that’s tender, not mushy, and perfect for meal prep.

Frozen peas vs fresh peas: what really matters

Don’t overthink the peas—frozen are more than fine. In fact, they hold their texture better for make-ahead meals. But if you’ve got fresh peas on hand, go for it. Just blanch them quickly before stirring them into the rice. Either way, their sweet pop balances the savory richness of the shrimp and garlic butter sauce in the most satisfying way.

Garlic butter sauce: unlocking restaurant-level taste

This sauce is a tiny recipe inside the recipe—and it’s the thing people come back for. Melted butter, fresh garlic, a splash of broth, and a squeeze of lemon get simmered just long enough to mellow and thicken. Drizzle it over the shrimp once everything is cooked, and suddenly your everyday dinner tastes like a chef-made dish. It’s simple, but unforgettable.

Cooking the Rice and Shrimp to Perfection

Getting fluffy rice with rich flavor every time

It starts with giving your rice a quick toast in the pan. This step adds a subtle nuttiness and prevents sogginess later. Once you add the broth, crushed tomatoes, and peas, the pan does most of the work—just cover and let it simmer. Don’t lift the lid too often, and resist stirring. By the end of 15 minutes, the rice should be tender and flavorful, without being clumpy or overcooked.

Searing shrimp: tips for juicy, golden bites

Shrimp can be tricky—they cook fast and can go rubbery if overdone. A hot pan and dry shrimp are key. Give them just a minute or two per side until they turn opaque and lightly golden. Season simply with salt and pepper; the garlic butter sauce will do the heavy lifting later. Remove them from the heat right away so they don’t keep cooking from residual heat.

Timing it all for perfect meal prep flow

While the rice simmers, use that window to cook the shrimp and build your sauce. That way, everything finishes at the same time. Once the rice is done, fold in the shrimp and let it sit, covered, for five more minutes—this lets the flavors meld. When ready to serve (or pack), spoon the garlic butter over the top, and garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices. That last touch adds freshness that makes reheated meals feel brand new.

How to Store, Reheat, and Serve This Meal Prep

Storing garlic butter shrimp and rice safely

Once cooled, divide the meal into airtight containers. The shrimp and rice keep beautifully in the fridge for up to four days, making it ideal for midweek lunches or dinners. Just be sure not to leave it out too long after cooking—shrimp are delicate and benefit from prompt chilling.

Reheating without drying out the shrimp

Shrimp can dry out if reheated too aggressively. The best method is a quick reheat in the microwave, covered loosely, with a splash of water or broth to rehydrate the rice. About one to one and a half minutes should do it. Alternatively, reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a little extra butter. The flavors hold up incredibly well.

Garnishing for freshness and flavor lift

Even in a meal prep container, a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon can make a big difference. Keep lemon wedges in the fridge and add them right before eating. That bit of acid brightens the garlic butter and makes the whole dish feel freshly cooked.

Customizing Your Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice

Using brown rice instead of white

Absolutely—you can swap in brown rice for extra fiber and a nuttier taste. Just note that brown rice takes longer to cook and will need a bit more liquid. Consider cooking it separately to maintain the best texture. The slightly chewy grains work well with the tender shrimp and bold garlic flavor.

Adding heat: chili flakes, Cajun spices & more

If you love a bit of kick, this dish welcomes it. A pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter or a shake of Cajun seasoning on the shrimp adds depth and heat. You could also stir in a spoonful of harissa or sriracha to the rice if you’re craving something bolder.

Swapping in other veggies that hold up in prep

Not a fan of peas? No problem. Diced bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach stirred in at the end all work well. Just choose vegetables that don’t turn soggy over time. This dish is wonderfully flexible—use it as a base and adjust to what’s in your fridge.

More Meal Prep Inspiration You’ll Love

If you’re into meals that reheat like a dream and pack in serious flavor, you’ll want to try this ground turkey taco skillet meal prep. It’s protein-packed, veggie-forward, and perfect for Taco Tuesday (or any day, really).

For something cozy and carb-loving, you can’t go wrong with this make-ahead baked ziti. It freezes beautifully and satisfies every cheesy craving.

Using a few versatile base recipes like these is the secret to meal prepping without burnout. Cook once, enjoy all week.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well but needs longer cooking time and a bit more broth. It adds a hearty, nutty flavor and a slight chew that pairs nicely with the garlic butter shrimp.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Definitely. Just blanch them quickly before adding to the rice. Fresh peas offer a slightly brighter flavor but frozen peas are more convenient and equally delicious in meal prep.

How long does garlic butter shrimp keep in the fridge?

Stored in an airtight container, this meal lasts up to four days in the fridge. For best texture, reheat gently and avoid overcooking the shrimp during reheating.

Can I freeze this meal for later?

Yes, but with some caveats. The shrimp may lose a bit of texture after freezing and reheating. If freezing, undercook the shrimp slightly, then reheat gently to prevent rubbery results.

Conclusion

Meal Prep Garlic Butter Shrimp with Rice is the kind of recipe you’ll come back to week after week—not just because it’s quick and easy, but because it actually tastes like something you’d order at a restaurant. It checks all the boxes: a full meal in one pan, packed with protein, rich in flavor, and made with simple ingredients you probably already have.

The garlic butter sauce adds that special something, elevating a humble shrimp and rice dish into something memorable. Whether you’re prepping for work, planning ahead for dinner, or just want to make something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen, this recipe delivers every time.

Make it once—and you’ll be hooked.

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