Garlic Butter Shrimp

Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp is one of those dishes that proves how the simplest ingredients can create the most unforgettable flavors. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a rich butter sauce infused with garlic, herbs, and a splash of lemon juice, making every bite mouthwatering and irresistible. This dish is quick, easy, and elegant—perfect for weeknight dinners or when you need something impressive in a hurry.

It’s a versatile recipe too—you can serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. With minimal effort and just a handful of pantry staples, you can whip up a restaurant-worthy dish in under 20 minutes.

Why I Love This Recipe ❤️

I love Garlic Butter Shrimp because it’s fast, flavorful, and foolproof. Shrimp cooks quickly, which makes this recipe perfect for busy nights when I still want something satisfying and homemade. The combination of garlic and butter is classic comfort food, while the lemon juice and parsley add freshness and balance.

It’s also one of those recipes that feels indulgent yet light—I can enjoy it as a main dish with pasta or as a simple appetizer with bread. Plus, it’s flexible enough to adjust with spices, chili flakes, or even a splash of white wine depending on my mood.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The garlic butter combo is universally loved.
• Healthy & Protein-Packed: Shrimp is low in calories but high in protein.
• Versatile: Serve it with pasta, rice, salad, or bread.
• Restaurant-Quality: Elegant enough for date night or entertaining.

Recipe Overview

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~280 kcal per serving (without pasta or rice)
• Cuisine: American / International
• Course: Main Course / Appetizer

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional, for spice)
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Directions (Simple Version)

1. Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet.
2. Add garlic, sauté until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp, season, and cook until pink and opaque.
4. Finish with lemon juice and parsley.
5. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

• Pat shrimp dry with paper towels.
• Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook Garlic Butter Base

• In a large skillet, heat butter and olive oil over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant (don’t let it burn).

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

• Add shrimp in a single layer.
• Cook 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Add chili flakes if using.

Step 4: Finish with Lemon & Herbs

• Squeeze in lemon juice, toss shrimp to coat.
• Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve over spaghetti or linguine for Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta.
• Pair with steamed rice or quinoa for a wholesome meal.
• Serve with toasted baguette to soak up the sauce.
• Make it a starter by serving with toothpicks for dipping.

Recipe Tips

• Don’t overcook shrimp—they turn rubbery quickly.
• Use fresh garlic for the best flavor (not garlic powder).
• Add a splash of white wine for a richer sauce.
• Double the butter sauce if serving with pasta.

Variations

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi: Add white wine and more lemon juice.
• Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add cayenne pepper or sriracha.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp with Veggies: Toss in zucchini, spinach, or bell peppers.
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Skewers: Thread shrimp on skewers and grill.

Freezing & Storage

• Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet with a little butter—avoid the microwave as it can toughen shrimp.
• Freezing: Not recommended for cooked shrimp (texture suffers). Freeze raw shrimp instead and cook fresh.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Mixing bowl
• Citrus squeezer (optional, for lemon juice)

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that proves you don’t need complicated ingredients for a gourmet meal. With its buttery garlic sauce, juicy shrimp, and fresh lemon finish, it’s a recipe that works for everything from busy weeknights to special occasions.