Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Delight in the rich flavors of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:52:14.271Z

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is a delicious blend of succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter, and fresh herbs, making it a perfect dish for seafood lovers.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Succulent shrimp cooked to perfection in rich garlic butter
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Deliciously versatile, pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread

      

A Flavorful Experience

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a dish that brings together the delightful combination of succulent shrimp and rich, aromatic garlic butter. Each bite bursts with flavor, making it a favorite for seafood lovers. The simplicity of this dish allows the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through, while the garlic adds a savory depth that elevates the entire meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a casual gathering or a romantic dinner, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.

What sets this Garlic Butter Shrimp apart is its versatility. It can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal or paired with your favorite sides. Serve it over a bed of pasta for a comforting dinner, or alongside a fresh salad for a healthy option. The rich garlic butter complements a variety of flavors, making it an excellent choice for any palate.

Quick and Easy Preparation

In today’s fast-paced world, quick and easy meals are a necessity. This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is designed with busy weeknights in mind, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. With just a handful of ingredients and simple cooking techniques, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on your table in no time. The minimal prep work makes it an ideal choice for novice cooks or anyone looking to whip up something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

The beauty of this recipe lies not just in its speed, but in its straightforward approach. The steps are easy to follow, and with a little practice, you’ll be able to make this dish effortlessly. Plus, the ingredients are commonly found in most kitchens, so you won't have to make a special trip to the store. It's a win-win for anyone looking to save time without sacrificing flavor.

Perfect Pairings

One of the best aspects of Garlic Butter Shrimp is its ability to complement a wide range of side dishes. For a classic pairing, consider serving it over a bed of al dente linguine tossed in olive oil and Parmesan cheese. The richness of the garlic butter sauce clings beautifully to the pasta, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. Alternatively, you can serve it with fluffy rice or quinoa, which soak up the flavorful sauce, making every bite enjoyable.

If you're in the mood for something lighter, a fresh green salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs wonderfully with this shrimp dish. The acidity of the dressing balances the richness of the garlic butter, creating a harmonious dining experience. Don’t forget about crusty bread! It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of that delicious flavor.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the lemon juice and chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Enjoy your Garlic Butter Shrimp with your choice of side!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of this Garlic Butter Shrimp, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the shrimp rubbery.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp. Place the cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to use them, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat as mentioned.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. This helps ensure even cooking and prevents excess moisture from affecting the dish's texture.

What type of shrimp is best for this recipe? Large shrimp are ideal as they provide a satisfying bite and cook quickly. However, you can use smaller shrimp if that's what you have on hand. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Variations to Try

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic. If you’re a fan of herbs, try incorporating fresh basil or thyme for an aromatic twist.

For a creamy version, stir in a splash of heavy cream after cooking the shrimp. This will create a rich, luscious sauce that’s perfect for tossing with pasta or drizzling over rice. The possibilities are endless, so don’t hesitate to experiment!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I use other types of seafood?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with scallops or lobster as well.