Garlic Butter Sautéed Shrimp

Garlic Butter Sautéed Shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish made with tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic and butter sauce, accented with a hint of lemon and herbs. It’s an elegant yet easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, appetizers, or a light entrée.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Packed with savory garlic and butter flavor
• Pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread
• Requires minimal ingredients and effort
• Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for everyday meals

Ingredients

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

• Large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Lemon juice
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Directions

1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5. Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with parsley. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately with your preferred side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 7–8 minutes
• Total Time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Add white wine for a scampi-style twist
• Stir in a touch of cream for a creamy garlic shrimp version
• Use cilantro and lime for a Southwestern flavor
• Serve over grits, polenta, or zucchini noodles for variety

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or butter; avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not by default, but you can add red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but only warm them briefly to avoid overcooking.

What size shrimp is best?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal for sautéing.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.

What goes well with this dish?

Pasta, rice, garlic bread, or a fresh salad pair nicely.

How do I know when shrimp are done?

They should be opaque and pink with a slight curl.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes, try adding spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the skillet.

Should I marinate the shrimp?

It’s not necessary, but a quick garlic-lemon marinade can enhance flavor.

Can I grill instead of sauté?

Yes, marinate and skewer the shrimp, then grill for 2–3 minutes per side.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Sautéed Shrimp is a deliciously simple recipe that delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Whether served as a main course or an appetizer, its buttery richness and aromatic garlic make it a go-to dish for any occasion.

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