This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce with a hint of lemon and fresh herbs. This dish is easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or an elegant meal for guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
- Bursting with Flavor – A combination of garlic, butter, and lemon enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp.
- Versatile – Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Healthy and Low-Carb – A protein-packed dish that fits well into many diets.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Butter
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper
Directions
- Prepare the Shrimp – Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel and season with salt and black pepper.
- Sauté the Garlic – In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Cook the Shrimp – Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Add Lemon and Seasoning – Stir in lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the flavorful butter sauce.
- Garnish and Serve – Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately with your choice of side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Garlic Herb Twist: Use fresh basil or thyme instead of parsley for a unique flavor.
- Cajun Style: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning for a Southern-inspired twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended as shrimp can become rubbery when reheated.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter or olive oil until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
FAQs
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
Shrimp is fully cooked when it turns pink and opaque. It usually takes about 1-2 minutes per side.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
What is the best type of shrimp to use?
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe, as they stay juicy and are easier to handle.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, replace the butter with extra olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?
It pairs well with pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.
How can I make this dish keto-friendly?
Serve the shrimp over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.
What should I do if my shrimp is rubbery?
Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and remove from heat immediately.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time and simply warm them in the garlic butter sauce for 1-2 minutes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free, but always check ingredient labels to be sure.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple yet elegant dish that delivers restaurant-quality flavors in just minutes. Whether served over pasta, with crusty bread, or as part of a low-carb meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Try it today and enjoy a quick, delicious seafood dish with minimal effort
Print
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This garlic butter shrimp is juicy, flavorful, and ready in just 10 minutes! Perfect as an appetizer or served over pasta or rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions
- Melt butter: In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Cook shrimp: Add shrimp, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Add lemon juice: Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
- Serve immediately.
Notes
- Serve over pasta or rice for a complete meal.
- Add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: : 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American