Garlic Butter Shrimp

Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and indulgent seafood dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Juicy, tender shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, often finished with a splash of lemon juice and fresh herbs, creating a perfect balance of savory, buttery, and zesty flavors. This dish is elegant yet simple, making it a favorite for both casual meals and impressive dinner parties.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s incredibly simple yet packed with flavor. The shrimp cook in just minutes, and the garlic butter sauce infuses every bite with a rich, aromatic taste that feels indulgent without being heavy. It’s one of those recipes that makes you feel like a professional chef in your own kitchen while being quick enough for busy nights.

The combination of succulent shrimp, golden garlic, and buttery sauce is irresistible, and the addition of fresh herbs and lemon brightens the dish, making it both comforting and refreshing. It’s also highly versatile—you can serve it over pasta, rice, or with a side of vegetables, making it a go-to recipe for countless occasions.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try because it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal in under 15 minutes. Garlic Butter Shrimp is perfect for anyone who loves seafood, bold flavors, and easy-to-make recipes. Its rich, buttery, and garlicky taste appeals to all ages, and it’s visually appealing when served, making it ideal for dinner parties or date nights at home.

The flavors are classic and universally loved: buttery richness, a hint of garlic spice, and a zesty brightness from lemon. It’s one of those dishes that tastes more elaborate than it is, making it a satisfying culinary experience every time.

Recipe Information

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 7–10 minutes
• Total Time: 12–15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories (per serving): Approximately 250 kcal
• Cuisine: American / Seafood
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• ½ tsp paprika (optional, for color and flavor)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Optional Serving Suggestions:

• Over cooked pasta or rice
• With crusty bread for dipping
• Alongside roasted vegetables or salad

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Add shrimp, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
5. Stir in lemon juice and fresh parsley.
6. Serve immediately over pasta, rice, or with bread.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation Method

1. Prepare Shrimp:
   • Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat dry with paper towels for better searing.
2. Heat Pan:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter with olive oil over medium-high heat.
3. Cook Garlic:
   • Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid burning it.
4. Cook Shrimp:
   • Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
   • Sprinkle with paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
   • Cook 2–3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook another 2–3 minutes until shrimp are pink, opaque, and slightly golden.
5. Add Lemon and Parsley:
   • Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the shrimp.
   • Stir in chopped parsley for freshness and color.
6. Serve:
   • Plate the shrimp immediately. Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread. Drizzle any extra garlic butter from the pan over the top.

How to Serve

• Over pasta or rice to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
• With steamed vegetables for a lighter meal.
• As an appetizer with toothpicks for parties.
• With crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Pat shrimp dry before cooking to prevent steaming.
• Avoid overcooking shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
• Adjust garlic and spice levels to taste.
• For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the skillet before finishing with lemon juice.

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add 2–3 tbsp heavy cream to the sauce for a richer texture.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Serve over linguine or spaghetti with extra garlic and parsley.
• Herb-Infused: Add thyme, oregano, or basil for extra aroma.

Freezing and Storage Time

• Freezing: Cooked garlic butter shrimp can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Best reheated gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking.
• Refrigeration: Store in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Spatula or tongs
• Knife and cutting board

FAQ

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best served immediately, but you can prep shrimp and sauce separately, then cook quickly before serving.

Q: What kind of shrimp works best?
A: Large or jumbo shrimp work best; smaller shrimp cook too quickly and can become rubbery.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?
A: Yes, replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, elegant, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With tender shrimp, rich garlic butter, and bright lemon and herbs, it’s a meal that feels luxurious yet is incredibly simple to prepare. Whether served over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this recipe is a must-have for seafood lovers who want a restaurant-quality dish at home in minutes.