Garlic Butter Shrimp

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels fancy without the fuss, then this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is just the thing! I can’t tell you how many times this dish has saved me on busy weeknights or when I have friends over. The combination of succulent shrimp and rich, garlicky butter is simply irresistible. Plus, it comes together in less than 20 minutes—perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want to impress.

This recipe is a family favorite and works beautifully as an appetizer or a main dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just treating yourself to something special, Garlic Butter Shrimp is sure to delight everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes less than 20 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for busy weeknights!
• Flavor Explosion: The buttery garlic sauce with a hint of red pepper flakes creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as an appetizer, serve it over pasta, or pair it with rice or crusty bread for a full meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the tender shrimp and savory flavor.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp is all about using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Shrimp

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 1 pound shrimp (large or jumbo, shelled)
• ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)

For the Flavor

• 6 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)

Variations

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the protein: Instead of shrimp, try this recipe with scallops or chicken for a different taste.
• Add veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach during cooking for extra color and nutrition.
• Change the herbs: Fresh basil or cilantro can easily replace parsley for a new flavor profile.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more red pepper flakes or even a dash of cayenne pepper!

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Cook the Shrimp

Start by heating the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp. You’ll want to cook them for about 2 to 3 minutes until they turn pink—this means they’re perfectly cooked! Don’t forget to season with salt while cooking. Flip them over and let them cook for another 2 minutes until they’re fully opaque.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Now it’s time to bring that garlic goodness into play! Add your minced garlic and red pepper flakes into the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant—but keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn! This step infuses your shrimp with irresistible flavor.

Step 3: Finish the Shrimp

Stir in the remaining butter along with freshly squeezed lemon juice and chopped parsley. The residual heat will melt everything together into a creamy sauce. Turn off the heat and serve immediately—this dish is best enjoyed hot right out of the pan!

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Butter Shrimp

Cooking can be intimidating, but with these simple tips, you’ll be whipping up restaurant-quality Garlic Butter Shrimp in no time!

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh shrimp not only taste better but also have a firmer texture. If possible, buy shrimp from your local fish market or grocer for the best flavor.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cooking too many shrimp at once can cause steaming instead of searing. This will prevent that delightful caramelization and result in less juicy shrimp. Cook in batches if necessary!

• Adjust the heat carefully: Medium-high heat is key to achieving that perfect pink color. If your shrimp cook too quickly or start to burn, lower the heat slightly to ensure they cook evenly.

• Experiment with spices: While this recipe calls for red pepper flakes for a hint of heat, feel free to experiment with your favorite spices or herbs! A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne can add an exciting twist.

• Serve immediately: Garlic Butter Shrimp tastes best right after cooking when it’s hot and buttery. Prepare your serving dishes ahead of time so you can serve it straight from the pan!

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp

Presenting your Garlic Butter Shrimp beautifully can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle some fresh green onions on top to add a pop of color and a mild onion flavor that complements the garlic perfectly.
• Lemon wedges: Serve with wedges of lemon on the side for a fresh burst of citrus that enhances the flavors and adds brightness to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: The crunchy, buttery goodness of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious garlic butter sauce. It’s an effortless pairing that everyone will love!

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a lovely crunch and vibrant color to your plate. Drizzle with lemon juice for extra zest that ties nicely with the shrimp.

• Quinoa salad: A refreshing quinoa salad loaded with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette makes a nutritious and filling side dish that balances out the richness of the shrimp.

• Rice pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the flavors of Garlic Butter Shrimp beautifully while providing a satisfying base for your meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Garlic Butter Shrimp will not only taste fantastic but also look stunning on any dinner table! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is not only quick to prepare but also makes a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily whip it up ahead of time and store it for a delightful meal later in the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the shrimp to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Reheat gently on low heat to avoid overcooking.

Freezing

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• Store in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• Heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a splash of olive oil or a bit of butter.
• Add the shrimp and cook until heated through, about 3-5 minutes.
• Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw your frozen shrimp before cooking. It can be done overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water if you’re short on time.

How do I make Garlic Butter Shrimp spicy?

To spice it up, simply increase the amount of red pepper flakes used in the recipe. You can also add a dash of your favorite hot sauce when mixing in the garlic and butter for an extra kick.

What side dishes pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables, rice, or even a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative with sides that complement its rich flavors!

How long does Garlic Butter Shrimp last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Garlic Butter Shrimp will last for up to 2 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Garlic Butter Shrimp as much as I do! It’s not only simple but bursting with flavor—perfect for impressing family and friends or enjoying a cozy night at home. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!