Garlic Butter Rice is a comforting side that’s rich, fluffy, and ready in under 30 minutes. Packed with savory garlic flavor and buttery goodness, this easy recipe pairs beautifully with just about any protein or vegetable. Whether you’re in need of a quick dinner idea or a no-fuss lunch option, this delicious rice dish delivers every time. The combination of garlic and butter creates a mouth-watering aroma that will make your kitchen feel like a gourmet restaurant.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Rice

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this garlic butter rice recipe. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Second, it’s versatile; you can pair it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even enjoy it as a standalone dish. Third, the rich flavor of butter enhances the garlic, creating a savory garlic butter rice that your taste buds will adore. Additionally, it serves well as a one-pot garlic butter rice, making cleanup a breeze. If you’re looking for a healthy garlic butter rice option, simply substitute with brown rice or cauliflower rice. Finally, this dish is perfect for meal prep, ensuring you always have a delicious side ready to go!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Rice

Gather these items:

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups water
1/2 teaspoon salt
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

How to Make Garlic Butter Rice Step-by-Step

Step 1: Rinse the rice in cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds, just until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the rinsed rice to the pan and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes to lightly toast the grains.
Step 4: Pour in water, add salt, and stir once. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
Step 5: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Step 6: Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm.

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Pro Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Rice

Keep these in mind:

Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
To make creamy garlic butter rice, add a splash of cream or milk after cooking.
For herb garlic rice, mix in fresh herbs like thyme or basil while cooking.
Ensure you rinse the rice well to remove excess starch, which can make it gummy.
For garlic butter fried rice, cool the rice and stir-fry with vegetables and an egg.

Best Ways to Serve Garlic Butter Rice

This garlic butter rice can be served in multiple delicious ways. Pair it with grilled shrimp for a delightful seafood dinner, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for a healthy meal. Additionally, it works perfectly as a base for a flavorful garlic butter rice with herbs dish, topped with fresh greens or nuts. You can create a quick garlic butter rice side that complements any main course beautifully.

How to Store and Reheat Garlic Butter Rice

After enjoying this delicious dish, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and microwave until warm. This makes it an excellent option for garlic butter rice for meal prep. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.

Frequently Asked Questions About Garlic Butter Rice

What is garlic butter rice?

Garlic butter rice is a savory dish made with rice cooked in a fragrant mixture of butter and minced garlic. This delightful combination gives the rice a rich flavor that can enhance any meal, making it a popular choice for side dishes.

Can I make garlic butter rice ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare garlic butter rice ahead of time. Cook it as instructed and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it with a bit of water to restore its fluffy texture.

How do I avoid common mistakes with garlic butter rice?

To avoid common mistakes, make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. This will prevent the rice from becoming sticky or gummy. Additionally, follow the cooking time closely to ensure perfectly fluffy rice.

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Variations of Garlic Butter Rice You Can Try

There are several delightful variations of garlic butter rice to explore. For a more filling option, try adding cooked vegetables like peas or bell peppers to create a garlic butter rice with vegetables. You can also try a creamy garlic butter rice by stirring in some heavy cream or cheese. For a vegan garlic butter rice alternative, use olive oil instead of butter, and toss in your favorite herbs for added flavor. Finally, consider making a savory garlic butter fried rice by using leftover rice and stir-frying it with vegetables and a protein of your choice.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Baked Lemon Rosemary Chicken. If you’re interested in meal prep ideas, visit One Pan Sweet Tangy Sausage Rice.