Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp coated in a rich, buttery garlic sauce. Ready in just 15 minutes, this recipe is perfect as an appetizer, main course, or topping for pasta, rice, or salad. With its simple ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a go-to recipe for weeknight dinners or elegant gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: On the table in just 15 minutes.
• Rich and flavorful: The buttery garlic sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
• Versatile: Perfect as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a larger meal.
• Minimal ingredients: Simple pantry staples and fresh shrimp make this dish shine.
• Elegant yet effortless: Great for both casual dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

1. Clean the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp

1. Heat the oil: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sear the shrimp: Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the butter.
2. Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add lemon juice: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using) for a bright, zesty flavor.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Return the shrimp: Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.
2. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 4 as a main dish or 6 as an appetizer.
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Herb twist: Use fresh dill, thyme, or cilantro instead of parsley for a different flavor profile.
• Creamy sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce.
• Vegetable add-ons: Toss in spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for added nutrition.
• Cajun style: Season the shrimp with Cajun spices for a bold twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter to prevent overcooking the shrimp. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery.

FAQs

What size shrimp is best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best, as they cook quickly while remaining tender and juicy.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw frozen shrimp completely before cooking by running them under cold water or letting them thaw in the refrigerator.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa, or pair with crusty bread and a fresh green salad.

How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?

Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking will make them rubbery.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the butter with vegan butter or olive oil for a dairy-free version.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but reduce the cooking time significantly since pre-cooked shrimp only need to be reheated.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any additional sides or bread are gluten-free as well.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Garlic Butter Shrimp is best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet and ensure even cooking.

How can I thicken the sauce?

For a thicker sauce, stir in a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water or let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, buttery sauce and tender shrimp, it’s sure to impress whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, a main course, or part of a larger meal. Pair it with your favorite sides and enjoy this flavorful, quick, and versatile recipe!

Garlic Butter Shrimp

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• Author: Mariem
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 serving 1x
• Category: Main Course, Appetizer
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

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Description

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor! Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a buttery garlic sauce with fresh herbs and a hint of lemon. Perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

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Ingredients

Units USM Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tsp lemon zest
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp:
   • Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Shrimp:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
   • Stir in the red pepper flakes, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Combine and Garnish:
   • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toss again.
5. Serve:
   • Serve immediately with crusty bread, over pasta, or with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

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Notes

• For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine to the sauce before adding the shrimp.
• Substitute parsley with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
• To make it dairy-free, use vegan butter.