Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a touch of lemon makes this recipe irresistibly delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. shrimp (16-20 count, peeled and deveined)
- 5 Tbsp. butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 2 tsp. lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)
- ¼-½ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parsley (finely chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Peel and devein the shrimp if they haven’t been already. Remove the tails or keep them on, depending on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Step 2: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Once melted, arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes until they turn opaque and their tails curl.
- Step 3: Make a well in the center of the shrimp in the skillet and add the remaining butter. After it melts, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant and lightly browned.
- Step 4: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine before adding the garlic.
- Skip the red pepper flakes for a milder dish or increase them for more heat.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
- Use fresh parsley or cilantro for a different herbaceous note.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking and drying out the shrimp. This dish is best enjoyed fresh but can be refreshed with a squeeze of lemon before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture in the pan.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are done when they turn opaque and their tails curl. This usually takes about 4-5 minutes total depending on their size.
PrintGarlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich buttery garlic sauce, finished with fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, flavorful dish. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb. shrimp (16–20 count, peeled and deveined)
Butter Garlic Sauce
- 5 Tbsp. butter (divided)
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 2 tsp. lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tsp. lemon zest
- ½ tsp. salt (to taste)
- ¼ tsp. black pepper (to taste)
- ¼–½ tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
- Parsley (finely chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if they haven’t been already. Remove the tails or keep them on, depending on your preference. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Shrimp: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick or stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Once melted, place the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2-3 minutes until the bottoms are pink and slightly browned. Flip the shrimp and cook for an additional 2 minutes until almost fully cooked through—the shrimp will turn opaque and their tails will begin to curl.
- Add the Butter and Garlic: Make a well in the center of the skillet and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant and slightly browned, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Season and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly. Serve immediately garnished with finely chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the dish.
- Serve this shrimp with crusty bread, over rice, or alongside pasta for a complete meal.
- Butter browns quickly; monitor the heat to prevent burning the garlic.
Keywords: Garlic Butter Shrimp, shrimp recipe, easy shrimp dinner, garlic shrimp, quick seafood recipe
