There's something truly magical about garlic butter shrimp that makes it an irresistible delight. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp glistening in a luscious pool of golden garlic butter, wafting aromas that make your stomach grumble in anticipation. turkey and sweet potato skillet sweet garlic butter chicken The moment you take a bite, the savory flavors dance on your tongue, making every meal feel like a celebration.

Now picture this: your best friends gathered around the dinner table, laughter filling the air as you serve up this heavenly dish. It’s an instant hit! The memories of shared moments and delicious food are what life is all about, and garlic butter shrimp is the perfect recipe to create those unforgettable experiences. garlic chicken recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This garlic butter shrimp is incredibly quick to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze.
- Each bite bursts with rich flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to culinary heaven.
- Visually stunning, the vibrant colors will impress anyone at your table.
- It's versatile enough for a cozy dinner or a fancy date night, satisfying any seafood lover.
Ingredients for garlic butter shrimp
For more inspiration, check out this garlic butter lobster tail recipe.
Here's what you'll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fresh Shrimp: Opt for large, peeled shrimp for the best texture and flavor; deveined makes cooking even easier.
- Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter for richer flavor; it helps to keep the dish balanced and not overly salty.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic cloves add a pungent kick; you can never have too much when it comes to garlic!
- Fresh Parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; it enhances the overall presentation beautifully.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brings brightness to the dish, cutting through the richness of the butter.
For seasoning:
- Salt and Pepper: Simple yet effective; adjust according to taste to elevate flavors perfectly.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make garlic butter shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. You want them as dry as possible so they sear nicely.
Step 2: Melt That Butter
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt about four tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it bubble gently—this is where the magic begins!
Step 3: Add Garlic
Once your butter is melted and sizzling lightly, toss in minced garlic. Stir it around until fragrant but be careful not to let it burn—nobody likes burnt garlic!
Step 4: Sauté Shrimp
Add your prepared shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Season them with salt and pepper before cooking for about two minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
Step 5: Brighten It Up
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp while they're still cooking. This not only adds flavor but also releases amazing aromas that will make everyone swoon.
Step 6: Finish with Parsley
Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for color and freshness. Give everything one last gentle stir before serving.
Transfer to plates and drizzle any remaining buttery goodness from the pan over each serving for the perfect finishing touch!
There you have it—garlic butter shrimp that's sure to impress even your pickiest friends! Enjoy this delectable dish alone or paired with crusty bread or fluffy rice to soak up all that buttery goodness. Bon appétit!
You Must Know
- This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a game changer for busy weeknights.
- With its delightful flavors and quick preparation, you can whip up a gourmet meal in no time.
- The aroma will have everyone gathering around the dinner table in anticipation!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting the butter in a hot skillet, then add minced garlic until fragrant. Next, toss in the shrimp and cook until pink and tender. This sequence ensures that your shrimp absorb all the garlicky goodness for maximum flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this garlic butter shrimp recipe with your favorite spices or vegetables. Consider adding red pepper flakes for heat, fresh herbs like parsley for brightness, or even a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The sky's the limit!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftovers, place cooled garlic butter shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to prevent overcooking and keep those shrimp juicy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
1.
- Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen shrimp can be used but ensure it's fully thawed before cooking.
2.
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect sear on each shrimp.
3.
- Don’t skip the garlic; it’s what makes this dish shine!
- Use freshly minced garlic instead of powder for better flavor.
Cooking this garlic butter shrimp reminds me of my first dinner party where I tried to impress my friends. They devoured everything and begged for the recipe—definitely a night to remember!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for garlic butter shrimp?
To make delicious garlic butter shrimp, you will need fresh shrimp, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and parsley. You can also add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Fresh shrimp is key to achieving that tender texture, while the garlic and butter create a rich, savory sauce that enhances the dish's flavors. Don't forget to have some salt and pepper on hand for seasoning. This simple list of ingredients ensures that your garlic butter shrimp is both easy to prepare and full of flavor.
How long does it take to cook garlic butter shrimp?
Cooking garlic butter shrimp is a quick process. It typically takes about 5 to 7 minutes to sauté the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque. The key is not to overcook them; otherwise, they can become rubbery. Start by melting the butter and sautéing minced garlic until fragrant before adding the shrimp. Stirring frequently will help ensure even cooking. This makes garlic butter shrimp an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner when you're short on time.
Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp. However, it's essential to thaw them properly before cooking. Place the frozen shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a quick thawing method. Once thawed, pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Using frozen shrimp can be convenient and still yield tasty results in your garlic butter shrimp dish.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?
Garlic butter shrimp pairs well with various side dishes that complement its rich flavors. Consider serving it over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables also makes for a refreshing contrast. refreshing shrimp salad For a more indulgent option, add crusty bread on the side for dipping into that flavorful garlic butter sauce. These options enhance your meal while keeping it balanced and satisfying.
Conclusion for garlic butter shrimp :
In summary, garlic butter shrimp is a delightful dish that combines fresh ingredients with bold flavors. The recipe is quick and easy, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Remember to use high-quality shrimp and don't rush the cooking process to achieve optimal tenderness. By pairing this dish with sides like pasta or salad, you can create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love. Enjoy making this savory delight in your kitchen!

Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and delectable seafood dish that features plump shrimp sautéed in rich, golden garlic butter. With the perfect balance of aromatic garlic and zesty lemon, this recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also elevates any dining experience. Ready in just minutes, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it over rice or pasta to soak up every drop of the savory sauce, and watch as family and friends gather around the table in delight.
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb large fresh shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients. Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbling gently.
- Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add shrimp in a single layer; season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp while cooking for added flavor.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, stir gently, and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Seafood
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (150g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: For added heat, include red pepper flakes when sautéing garlic. Substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken for variations. Serve with crusty bread or over fluffy rice to enjoy the buttery sauce.





