Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe in 20 Minutes

Shrimp lovers, get ready to impress your taste buds! 🍤 This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners, romantic meals, or whenever you're craving something luxurious and easy to whip up. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast, garlic aficionado, or home cook eager to try something new, this recipe is your next favorite dish. Let's explore how to craft the perfect garlic butter shrimp.

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp is a Hit

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. With just a few high-quality ingredients—shrimp, garlic, butter, and fresh herbs—you can create an incredible meal in under 20 minutes. Plus, garlic butter shrimp is super versatile. Serve it over rice, pasta, or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Pair it with crusty bread to sop up the flavorful sauce, or toss it into a salad for a lighter take. This recipe is a true culinary chameleon!

Ingredients You'll Need

Before we get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 6 garlic cloves, minced (adjust based on your garlic love!)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
• Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 2 tbsp)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)

Tips for Shrimp Selection

For the best results, opt for large or jumbo shrimp. Fresh shrimp have a mild, ocean-like smell, while frozen shrimp should be free from freezer burn. Deveining is a must—it’s worth the effort for a clean and smooth bite.

Step-by-Step Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Follow these simple steps to make the ultimate garlic butter shrimp:

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

• Rinse the peeled and deveined shrimp under cold water and pat dry with a paper towel. This helps remove excess moisture, ensuring a perfect sear in the pan.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

• Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is hot but not smoking, it’s time to cook the shrimp.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

• Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside—don't overcook, as they’ll finish cooking later.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

• Lower the heat to medium-low and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the skillet. Allow it to melt, then add the minced garlic. Stir continuously for about 1 minute, ensuring the garlic becomes fragrant but doesn’t burn, as burnt garlic can taste bitter.
• If you enjoy a bit of spice, sprinkle in red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

• Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently in the rich, garlicky butter sauce. Add the juice of a lemon and sprinkle with fresh parsley for brightness. Give it a final toss to coat the shrimp evenly.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Serve your garlic butter shrimp immediately. You can spoon it over fluffy rice or creamy pasta, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables and crusty bread. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for that perfect finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp

1. D't

Shrimp cook very quickly—usually 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking leads to rubbery shrimp, so keep a close eye on them.

2. U Fresh Ingredients

Nothing beats the flavor of fresh garlic and parsley. If available, opt for fresh shrimp for an even better taste.

3. Ctomize

Love heat? Add more red pepper flakes! Prefer it mild? Skip them altogether. This recipe is highly adjustable to your spice preferences.

4. Eerimental

Turn this recipe into a one-pan meal by adding asparagus, cherry tomatoes, or spinach to the skillet at the same time as the butter.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, you can whip it up in 20 minutes or less.
• Packed with Flavor: Garlic and butter create a decadent, savory base that everyone loves.
• Healthy-ish: Shrimp are high in protein and naturally low in fat, making this dish indulgently nutritious.
• Impressively Versatile: Dress it up for a date night or keep it simple for a family dinner—this dish fits the occasion.

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp

If you’re wondering what pairs well with this scrumptious dish, here are some go-to suggestions:

• Starch: Creamy mashed potatoes, pasta, or crusty bread.
• Veggies: Steamed broccoli, roasted asparagus, or a simple garden salad.
• Drink Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with lemon.

Join the Garlic Butter Shrimp Craze!

There’s a reason garlic butter shrimp is a hit among home cooks and foodies alike. It’s simple, quick, and endlessly delicious. Whether you're a seafood enthusiast or testing the waters with shrimp, this recipe is foolproof and sure to become a favorite in your household.