If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, then this 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice recipe is just what you need. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something delicious without too much fuss, this dish combines tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and aromatic spices, all cooked together in one pan. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a hearty meal ready to serve, making it a great option for anyone who loves simplicity in cooking.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
What makes this 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice stand out is its simplicity and speed. With only one pan to clean and a cooking time that barely exceeds the time it takes to boil water, this recipe is perfect for those who value convenience without sacrificing flavor. The combination of shrimp and spices creates a delightful taste that will leave your taste buds dancing. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for various dietary preferences, making it a versatile dish for anyone.
Gather These Ingredients
To whip up this delicious meal, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup quick cooking rice (basmati, quick cooking, or minute rice)
- 1 pound shrimp (deveined, shell off)
- 1 tbsp oil (of choice)
- 1/4 cup onion (minced or chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced or crushed)
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 3/4 cup water
- 1/4 cup parmesan (grated, optional)
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following gear on hand:
- Large skillet or frying pan – For cooking the shrimp and rice together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements of ingredients.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – For stirring and combining ingredients.
- Knife and cutting board – To chop the onion and mince the garlic.
15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice, Made Easy
This recipe is straightforward and quick! Follow these steps to create your own 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the onion, and ensure the shrimp is cleaned and deveined.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Choose an oil that complements the flavors, such as olive oil or avocado oil.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the minced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Step 4: Seasoning the Shrimp
Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine the spices and allow their flavors to bloom.
Step 5: Add the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook for about 2 minutes, until they start to turn pink.
Step 6: Incorporate the Rice
Stir in the quick cooking rice, making sure it’s well mixed with the shrimp and spices.
Step 7: Add Water
Pour in the 1 3/4 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the water.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Once the rice is fluffy and the shrimp are fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’d like, sprinkle the grated parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice!
Nutrition-Minded Tweaks
If you want to make this dish even healthier or cater it to specific dietary needs, consider the following tweaks:
- Replace white rice with brown rice for added fiber.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for enhanced flavor.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to boost nutrients.
- Substitute shrimp with tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
Notes from the Test Kitchen
The 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice recipe is highly adaptable. Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs, such as adding a pinch of cayenne for heat or fresh parsley for garnish. The key is to keep an eye on the shrimp to prevent overcooking, as they can become tough if left on the heat for too long.
Cooling, Storing & Rewarming
This dish is perfect for meal prep! If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave until warmed through, or heat in a skillet with a splash of water to revive the rice.
Reader Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp beforehand, as this will help them cook evenly and quickly.
What can I serve with this dish?
This 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice is a complete meal on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a wholesome dinner.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the steps to whip it up in no time.
What’s a good alternative to rice?
If you’re looking to switch up the base, consider using quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even couscous for a different texture and flavor profile.
The Takeaway
This 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a quick yet flavorful meal solution. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cleanup, it’s perfect for those busy nights when you still want something delicious on the table. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, this dish is sure to impress with its ease and taste. So, grab your skillet, and let’s get cooking!
15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by gathering all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the onion, and ensure the shrimp is cleaned and deveined.
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Choose an oil that complements the flavors, such as olive oil or avocado oil.
- Add the minced onion to the skillet and sauté for about 2 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine the spices and allow their flavors to bloom.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the spice mixture. Cook for about 2 minutes, until they start to turn pink.
- Stir in the quick cooking rice, making sure it’s well mixed with the shrimp and spices.
- Pour in the 1 3/4 cups of water, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the water.
- Once the rice is fluffy and the shrimp are fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. If you’d like, sprinkle the grated parmesan on top for an extra layer of flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious 15 Minute One Pan Shrimp and Rice!
Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs, such as adding a pinch of cayenne for heat.
- For added fiber, replace white rice with brown rice.
- This dish is perfect for meal prep; store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
