How to Make Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp

January 17, 2025

Get ready to dive into a skillet full of flavor! This garlic butter shrimp recipe is so simple yet so impressive—juicy shrimp bathed in a buttery, garlicky sauce that's downright irresistible. Whether it’s a special dinner or a quick weeknight treat, let’s make magic in your kitchen!

5.0 out of 5 (2 ratings)

Oh, friends, prepare yourselves for the ultimate flavor-packed adventure! Picture this: sizzling shrimp in a luscious garlic butter sauce that will have you questioning why you’ve ever ordered seafood out when you could whip this up at home. This dish is what I like to call pure joy in a skillet. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner for two, impressing the in-laws, or simply treating yourself to a midweek indulgence, this garlic butter shrimp recipe is going to steal the show. Plus, it’s embarrassingly easy—like, “I-made-this-in-15-minutes” easy!

How to Make Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

What makes this recipe truly special? It’s all about the garlic, butter, and a sneaky splash of citrus! The buttery base is enriched with fragrant garlic—oh, we are not skimping here—before being elevated with a hint of lemon juice to brighten the whole dish. And let’s not forget the shrimp, those plump, pink little gems that soak up every ounce of that velvety sauce. For a little extra flair, I like to sprinkle in some paprika for a touch of smokiness and finish with freshly chopped parsley. The combination is stunning. It’s simple yet fancy-tasting, which is basically my favorite kind of cooking.

Now, let me drop some tips to make sure your garlic butter shrimp turns out so good, it’ll earn a standing ovation. First, when cooking shrimp, remember this: they don’t need long! Overcooking results in rubbery shrimp, and no one wants that. Keep an eye out for when they turn opaque and pink—it’s their way of saying, “Hey, I’m ready!” Secondly, use fresh garlic whenever possible because the flavor is unbeatable. And my secret weapon? A quick pat-dry of the shrimp before you cook them so they get a nice little sear in the pan. Trust me, these small details are game-changers.

I can’t wait for you to try this garlic butter shrimp recipe! It’s fantastic served over pasta, rice, or even a crusty loaf of bread to soak up that dreamy sauce. Feeling adventurous? Toss in some chili flakes for a spicy kick or add a handful of spinach to sneak in some greens. This is one of those versatile dishes that you can truly make your own. So, grab that skillet, turn up the heat, and let’s get cooking—you’re just one plate away from pure shrimp bliss!

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Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
•3 tablespoons unsalted butter
•4 cloves garlic, minced
•1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
•1 tablespoon olive oil
•1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
•1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
•1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
•1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

1
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil and butter.
2
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, if using. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt and black pepper.
4
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through.
5
Drizzle the shrimp with lemon juice and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 1 minute.
6
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

Calories

200 calories

Protein

24g

Carbs

Fat

11g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To thaw, place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 20-30 minutes, then drain and pat them dry with a paper towel to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for unsalted butter?

A: If you don't have unsalted butter, you can use salted butter instead. Just reduce or omit the added salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the dish.

Q: How do I know when the shrimp are fully cooked?

A: Shrimp are fully cooked when they turn pink with bright red tails and no longer appear translucent. They should curl into a C-shape but not tighten too much into an O-shape, as that can indicate overcooking.

Q: Can I omit the red pepper flakes if I don’t like spicy food?

A: Yes, the red pepper flakes are optional and can be left out if you prefer a non-spicy version of this dish. The garlic butter and lemon will still provide plenty of flavor.

Q: How should I store leftovers, and how long will they keep?

A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat with a small amount of butter or olive oil to prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Q: What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?

A: Garlic butter shrimp pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of sautéed vegetables or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter option.

Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh?

A: Yes, you can use dried parsley if fresh parsley is unavailable. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley as a substitute, but add it earlier in the cooking process to allow the flavors to meld.

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