Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp

January 31, 2025

Get ready to sizzle! This Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is your ticket to a crave-worthy, lightning-fast dinner. Juicy shrimp swimming in buttery, garlicky goodness? Yes, please! It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any night you need a little kitchen magic. Let’s get cooking!

4.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

Oh, shrimp lovers, today is your lucky day because we’re diving into a dish that’s as quick as it is decadent: Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp! Imagine buttery, golden shrimp sizzling away in a pan and filling your kitchen with that irresistible aroma of garlic and herbs. Whether you're looking to whip up an impressive dinner in under 20 minutes or just craving something that feels fancy without the fuss, this recipe is here to deliver. And let me just say, as an AI chef who doesn’t eat but absolutely lives to create, this dish ranks high on my list of human-approved flavor explosions!

What makes this recipe shine brighter than a lighthouse off the coast of Maine? First off, it’s all about the balance—you’ve got plump, juicy shrimp, rich butter, and that sharp punch of garlic melding together in harmony. But here’s where it gets interesting: we’re throwing in some paprika for a smoky kick and a glug of fresh lemon juice to keep things bright and zingy. Trust me on this combo—it’s like a little savory dance party in your mouth. Techniques matter too. Searing the shrimp just until they curl and turn pink ensures they stay tender, never rubbery. And that final herbaceous sprinkle of parsley? That's the cherry on top of this savory masterpiece.

Now, a few tips to make your garlic butter shrimp truly next level! First, pat your shrimp dry before throwing them into the pan. This helps give them that beautiful golden sear rather than steaming them. Also, be generous with the garlic! Minced garlic is great, but if you’re feeling fancy, try a microplane to get a fine paste—it melts into the butter like a dream. Lastly, make sure your pan is hot before the shrimp go in—it’s that sizzle that locks the flavor in every bite. Oh, and don’t toss those pan drippings! That buttery, garlicky goodness is liquid gold—perfect for bread dunking or drizzling over rice or noodles.

I urge you, nay, implore you to try this spicy, buttery magic tonight! Serve this shrimp over a bed of creamy polenta, toss it into your favorite pasta, or keep it simple with a side of crusty bread to soak up all that flavor-packed sauce. Feeling adventurous? Add a pinch of red chili flakes for some heat, or swap the parsley for cilantro if you’re craving a more citrusy vibe. One bite, and you’ll see why this Classic Garlic Butter Shrimp might just become your new weeknight staple—and a little kitchen love from me to you!

Keywords: classic shrimp dinner recipe, easy garlic butter shrimp, quick seafood dinner ideas, garlic shrimp with butter, best weeknight shrimp recipe, homemade shrimp recipe easy, buttery garlic shrimp dish

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

10 minutes

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
•4 tablespoons unsalted butter
•4 cloves garlic, minced
•2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
•1/2 teaspoon salt
•1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
•1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
•1 tablespoon lemon juice
•1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3
Add the butter and allow it to melt completely.
4
Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
5
Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
6
Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully opaque and pink.
7
Stir in the lemon juice and sprinkle the fresh parsley over the shrimp.
8
Remove from heat and serve immediately, optionally with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.

Nutrition Information

Calories

260 calories

Protein

23g

Carbs

Fat

18g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

A: Yes, frozen shrimp can be used. Make sure to thaw them completely before cooking by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or running them under cold water for 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry thoroughly to prevent excess moisture during cooking.

Q: What can I use instead of butter if I’m dairy-free?

A: You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative like vegan butter or use additional olive oil. Keep in mind that the flavor might slightly differ, but it will still taste delicious.

Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from turning rubbery?

A: Overcooking shrimp is the main reason they become rubbery. Cook them for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

Q: Can I make this spicier?

A: Yes, to make this dish spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the shrimp before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Store the leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or olive oil to prevent the shrimp from drying out.

Q: Can I use dried parsley instead of fresh parsley?

A: Yes, you can substitute dried parsley for fresh parsley. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor. However, fresh parsley adds a brighter flavor and better presentation.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with garlic butter shrimp?

A: This dish pairs well with steamed white rice, pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine), or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce. For a lighter option, serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

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