Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful seafood dish made with tender shrimp, butter, fresh garlic, and lemon. It takes just a few minutes to prepare and is perfect for a simple lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) peeled and deveined shrimp
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat the Pan
Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through. Avoid overcooking them.
Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
4. Make the Garlic Butter
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the skillet, followed by the minced garlic.
Cook for about 30–60 seconds, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
5. Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Add the lemon juice and toss everything together for about 1 minute.
6. Garnish and Serve
Remove from the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve immediately with lemon wedges.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp
This recipe pairs well with:
- Steamed rice
- Pasta
- Mashed potatoes
- Crusty bread
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry before seasoning to help them cook properly.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet.
- Cook shrimp just until opaque and firm.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.
- Add the lemon juice at the end for a bright, fresh taste.
Optional Additions
You can customize this recipe with:
- Red pepper flakes
- Fresh cilantro
- Parmesan cheese
- Spinach
- Cherry tomatoes
- Zucchini
- A little white wine for the sauce
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp should become opaque and firm, with their shape curling slightly. Avoid cooking them for too long because they can become tough.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Garlic Butter Shrimp is best served immediately, but leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container and reheated gently.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fast and delicious recipe that combines tender shrimp with rich butter, fragrant garlic, and fresh lemon. Serve it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread for an easy homemade meal.