Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and elegant dish that’s packed with bold, buttery flavor and just the right amount of zest. Tender shrimp are sautéed in a rich garlic-infused butter sauce with a splash of lemon for brightness. This simple yet luxurious meal comes together in minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner party.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in 15 minutes: A fast and flavorful meal you can whip up any time
• Restaurant-quality taste: Buttery, garlicky goodness without the fuss
• Pairs with anything: Great over pasta, rice, veggies, or on its own
• Crowd-pleaser: A dish that’s as impressive as it is easy
• Customizable: Make it spicy, creamy, or herb-infused to your taste

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Unsalted butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Salt and pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes, if using.
6. Remove from heat, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream before serving
• Garlic Herb Shrimp: Add fresh thyme or basil with the parsley
• Citrus Blend: Use a mix of lemon and lime juice for a citrusy kick
• Wine Lover’s Version: Deglaze the pan with a splash of white wine before adding shrimp

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Freezer: Not recommended—shrimp can get rubbery after freezing and reheating
• Reheating: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat to keep shrimp tender

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Should I use raw or pre-cooked shrimp?

Raw shrimp are best for flavor and texture; pre-cooked can overcook quickly.

What size shrimp should I buy?

Medium to large shrimp (16–20 count) work best for sautéing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative.

Can I serve this over pasta?

Absolutely—toss it with cooked linguine or spaghetti and extra garlic butter.

What veggies go well with it?

Asparagus, zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers pair beautifully.

Can I use lemon zest instead of juice?

Yes, or use both for an even more vibrant citrus flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as all ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I cook the shrimp in the oven?

You can roast them at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, but the skillet method gives better flavor.

How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?

Watch closely—remove them from heat as soon as they’re pink and opaque.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a deliciously simple dish that delivers big on flavor with minimal effort. Whether you serve it over pasta, with crusty bread, or alongside a crisp salad, this versatile recipe is sure to become a weeknight favorite. Quick, satisfying, and always impressive—it’s a keeper for any home cook.

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