Garlic butter shrimp is a timeless dish that balances rich, savory flavors with a hint of freshness from lemon and herbs. It is quick to prepare, bursting with buttery goodness, and versatile enough to serve with pasta, rice, or even crusty bread.
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Why Garlic Butter Shrimp Is a Must-Try Dish
Garlic shrimp is celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Juicy shrimp, seared in butter and garlic, release a delicate aroma that transforms into a restaurant-quality meal in just minutes. It is perfect for busy weeknights, special dinners, or entertaining guests.
Ingredients: Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp
To achieve the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality ingredients:
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
• 4 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for added depth)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for some heat)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure a perfect sear. Season lightly with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
2. Heat the Pan
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with olive oil over medium-high heat. The oil prevents the butter from burning.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side, until the meat is pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and garlic, and sauté until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, zest, and red pepper flakes.
5. Combine and Garnish
Return shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic butter sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
- Over Pasta: Toss shrimp with linguine for a luxurious garlic butter shrimp pasta.
- With Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the buttery sauce.
- With Bread: Pair with toasted baguette slices to enjoy every drop of the garlic butter.
- As an Appetizer: Present on skewers for a party-friendly dish.
Expert Tips for Success
Use fresh shrimp for maximum flavor and texture. Frozen shrimp works too, but thaw completely before cooking.
Do not overcook – shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
Enhance flavor by adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to the sauce.
Balance the richness of butter with lemon juice for a refreshing finish.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 0g
Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add extra chili flakes or diced jalapeños.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Splash in white wine and toss with pasta.
Asian-Inspired: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream for a silky sauce.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving as it may toughen the shrimp.
- Freezing: Best enjoyed fresh; freezing is not recommended for maintaining texture.
Conclusion
Garlic butter shrimp is not just a fast dinner—it’s comfort in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish is a flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or even a comfortable celebration at home.
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp – Perfect Weeknight Meal
Buttery, garlicky shrimp that’s fancy enough for date night but easy enough for hectic weeknights. Comes together in under 20 minutes and is full of cozy, comforting flavor.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat.
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Add garlic (and red pepper flakes, if using). Sauté until fragrant—about 30 seconds.
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Add shrimp, spread in single layer. Cook ~2–3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Nothing should be rubbery!
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Stir in lemon juice, toss to coat shrimp with buttery goodness.
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Season with salt and pepper, sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
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Serve immediately—over pasta, rice, crusty bread, or on its own for the pure buttery-garlic vibe.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 245kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 13g20%
- Total Carbohydrate 2g1%
- Protein 45g90%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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From My Kitchen to Yours
I can’t tell you how many frantic evenings this little dish has saved. Shrimp cooks so fast, it’s like magic—and when you toss it in that buttery garlic sauce, everything just sings. I love serving it over pasta for cozy dinners, or with a crusty roll to soak up every buttery drop.
Made the garlic butter shrimp last night and oh, it was fantastic! So simple, yet so full of flavor—I loved how the garlic and butter just made everything taste amazing. Will be on repeat in my kitchen!