Shrimp lovers, prepare to elevate your dinner menu with the irresistible flavors of garlic butter shrimp a dish that’s both elegant and easy to prepare. Whether you’re serving it as an appetizer, main course, or tossing it over pasta, rice, or salad, this recipe is guaranteed to impress with its rich, buttery base and the bold aroma of fresh garlic. Dive into a restaurant-quality experience right from your kitchen.

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp

To achieve the perfect garlic butter shrimp, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off based on preference
5 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Lemon wedges, for serving

Step-by-Step Directions for Garlic Butter Shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Removing moisture helps ensure a good sear when cooking.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and paprika until evenly coated. If you’re using red pepper flakes for a kick, mix them in here.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat them in the garlic butter sauce. Stir in the lemon juice and simmer for 1 minute. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with lemon wedges on the side.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic butter shrimp is incredibly versatile and can be served in many delicious ways:

Over Pasta – Toss shrimp with linguine or spaghetti and extra garlic butter for a hearty seafood pasta.
With Rice – Serve over jasmine or wild rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
On a Salad – Chill the shrimp slightly and add them to a crisp garden or Caesar salad.
With Crusty Bread – Serve alongside toasted baguette slices to scoop up the garlicky butter.

Expert Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp

Use Fresh Shrimp for Maximum Flavor

Fresh shrimp offers a sweeter, more delicate flavor than frozen. If frozen is your only option, make sure they are thoroughly thawed and patted dry.

Do Not Overcook

Shrimp cook fast—overcooking can make them rubbery. As soon as they curl into a loose “C” shape and turn opaque, they’re ready.

Adjust Garlic to Taste

If you’re a garlic enthusiast, feel free to use more cloves. Roasting the garlic first for a milder flavor is another delicious twist.

Butter Quality Matters

Use unsalted, high-quality butter for best results. European-style butter adds a richer depth of flavor.

Make It Creamy

Add ¼ cup heavy cream after cooking the garlic for a luscious twist on the original sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Refrigeration: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Avoid microwaving to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
Freezing: Not recommended. Butter-based sauces and shrimp texture do not freeze well together.

Conclusion

Garlic butter shrimp combines simplicity, elegance, and bold flavor into a dish that never fails to satisfy. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for special occasions. Whether paired with carbs or served solo, this recipe brings out the best in shrimp with its luscious garlic-infused butter sauce.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, but the flavor and texture are best with raw shrimp. If using pre-cooked, reduce cooking time and add them at the end to warm through without overcooking.

What’s the best type of shrimp to use?

Large or jumbo raw shrimp (either wild-caught or responsibly farmed) are ideal. Peeled and deveined shrimp save prep time.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes. Substitute the butter with vegan butter or a blend of olive oil and garlic for a dairy-free option.

Is garlic butter shrimp spicy?

It’s mild by default. The optional crushed red pepper flakes can add a bit of heat if desired.

Can I grill the shrimp instead?

Absolutely. Grill the shrimp separately, then toss them in the garlic butter sauce just before serving.

Garlic Butter Shrimp