If you’re a fan of simple, yet irresistibly flavorful dishes, this Shrimp Garlic Recipe with butter is about to become your new favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a special gathering, this quick and easy recipe has everything you crave: juicy shrimp, rich garlic butter, and a burst of savory goodness in every bite. The best part? It only takes a few ingredients and minutes to prepare, making it a perfect go-to for busy days when you still want something that feels special. Ready to indulge in a buttery shrimp masterpiece? Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!
Shrimp Garlic Recipe -Butter You Can’t Stop Loving
Ingredients
- Shrimp about 1 lb: Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for easy prep. Fresh or frozen shrimp will both work, just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp properly before cooking.
- Butter 4 tablespoons: This forms the base of the rich and creamy garlic butter sauce. Unsalted butter works best so you can season the dish to your exact taste.
- Garlic 4 cloves, minced: Freshly minced garlic delivers a bold, aromatic flavor that makes this dish unforgettable. You can increase or decrease the garlic depending on your preference for its intensity.
- Olive Oil 1 tablespoon: Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds extra richness to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice 1 tablespoon: A splash of fresh lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and adds brightness to the dish.
- Fresh Parsley optional, for garnish: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color.
- Salt & Pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help them sear perfectly.
- Sauté Garlic: Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic—keep the heat low and stir frequently.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink color and become firm to the touch. The shrimp are done when they are fully opaque and have curled into a “C” shape.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the shrimp is cooked through, add the butter to the skillet. Stir well until it melts and combines with the garlic. Squeeze in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
Key Benefits of Shrimp Garlic Butter
If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only packed with flavor but also quick and easy to make, Shrimp Garlic Butter is the answer! This recipe combines the savory goodness of succulent shrimp with a rich, buttery garlic sauce that’s truly irresistible. Here are some reasons why you’ll love this dish:
- High in Protein: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, making this a healthy option for anyone looking to fuel up without the excess calories.
- Low in Calories: With just a few simple ingredients, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is light on calories but heavy on taste, perfect for those watching their calorie intake.
- Quick and Easy: From start to finish, this easy shrimp recipe takes only 15 minutes to prepare. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Packed with Flavor: The garlic butter sauce infuses each shrimp with rich, savory flavors, making every bite a burst of goodness.
- Versatile: You can serve it as an appetizer, toss it with pasta, or pair it with a simple salad for a complete meal.
Not only does this shrimp garlic butter recipe taste incredible, but it’s also incredibly versatile and easy to make. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen. Ready to try it for yourself? Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients for Shrimp Garlic Butter
To make this Shrimp Garlic Butter recipe, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients that come together to create a dish bursting with flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Shrimp (about 1 lb): Choose large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for easy prep. Fresh or frozen shrimp will both work, just make sure to thaw frozen shrimp properly before cooking.
- Butter (4 tablespoons): This forms the base of the rich and creamy garlic butter sauce. Unsalted butter works best so you can season the dish to your exact taste.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic delivers a bold, aromatic flavor that makes this dish unforgettable. You can increase or decrease the garlic depending on your preference for its intensity.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds extra richness to the sauce.
- Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): A splash of fresh lemon juice balances the richness of the butter and adds brightness to the dish.
- Fresh Parsley (optional, for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a pop of color.
- Salt & Pepper (to taste): Seasoning is key to enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
These ingredients work together to create a garlicky, buttery shrimp experience that’s truly unforgettable. Don’t worry about fancy ingredients – it’s all about letting the natural flavors shine through! Once you’ve gathered everything, you’re ready to dive into the next step and make this shrimp garlic butter magic come to life.
Instructions for Shrimp Garlic Butter
Making Shrimp Garlic Butter is simple, quick, and so delicious. Follow these easy steps for a dish that’s sure to impress:
- Prep the Shrimp: If you’re using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, which will help them sear perfectly.
- Sauté Garlic: Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic—keep the heat low and stir frequently.
- Cook the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Allow them to cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink color and become firm to the touch. The shrimp are done when they are fully opaque and have curled into a “C” shape.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Once the shrimp is cooked through, add the butter to the skillet. Stir well until it melts and combines with the garlic. Squeeze in the lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
This shrimp garlic butter recipe is simple, yet packed with flavor. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something easy, or even for special occasions when you need a dish that’s sure to wow. Pair it with your favorite sides, and you’re all set to enjoy a delicious, restaurant-quality meal!
Cooking Tips & Variations for Shrimp Garlic Butter
This Shrimp Garlic Butter recipe is incredibly versatile, and there are several ways you can adjust it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few tips and variations to help you customize your dish:
- Adjust the Garlic: If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add an extra clove or two for a stronger flavor. On the flip side, if you’re not a huge fan of garlic, you can reduce the amount to suit your preferences.
- Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce. This will give your garlic butter shrimp a subtle but flavorful kick.
- Add Veggies: You can make this dish more hearty by adding vegetables such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. Sauté them alongside the garlic for a burst
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp Garlic Butter
Now that your shrimp garlic butter is ready, it’s time to serve this dish with flair! Whether you’re going for a simple dinner or a more elaborate spread, here are some ideas to complement the rich, buttery shrimp:
- With Pasta: A smooth pasta like spaghetti or fettuccine pairs perfectly with the garlic butter sauce, letting each bite soak in the savory goodness.
- Over Rice: Serve your shrimp on a bed of rice—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option. The rice absorbs the flavorful sauce, making every forkful delightful.
- Vegetable Side: Roasted or sautéed veggies like green beans, zucchini, or asparagus bring color and freshness to the plate, balancing the richness of the shrimp.
- Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent experience, serve with crispy garlic bread to scoop up every last drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- Side Salad: A light, crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette or avocado adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the shrimp.
These sides not only complement the shrimp but also offer variety and balance to the dish. Whether you’re keeping it simple or dressing it up, your shrimp garlic butter meal is bound to shine!
Conclusion
Shrimp Garlic Butter is the perfect combination of rich, savory flavors and quick, easy preparation. This dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort. The creamy garlic butter sauce envelops the shrimp, creating a satisfying and indulgent experience that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Not only is this shrimp garlic butter recipe simple to make, but it’s also versatile. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a variety of sides, making it adaptable to any meal occasion. Whether served with pasta, rice, or fresh vegetables, it never fails to deliver big flavor.
With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, you can create a dish that tastes like it came from a five-star restaurant. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to recipe for both casual dinners and special occasions!
So, go ahead—give this Shrimp Garlic Butter recipe a try and experience a burst of deliciousness in every bite. Trust us, it’s a meal your taste buds will thank you for!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, frozen shrimp works well! Just be sure to defrost them first. The best way is to let them thaw overnight in the fridge or place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. Before cooking, pat them dry with a clean towel to remove any excess water—this helps them cook evenly and develop a great texture.
Definitely! If you’re a garlic lover, feel free to add more for an extra punch of flavor. If you’d like a milder taste, reduce the amount slightly. The beauty of this recipe is how easily it can be adjusted to your preference.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy shrimp garlic butter! Serve it over a bed of pasta, spoon it onto fluffy rice, or pair it with roasted vegetables for a well-balanced meal. If you prefer something lighter, a crisp salad or sautéed greens make great options.
Store any remaining shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, use a pan over low heat and stir gently to avoid overcooking. Microwaving is an option, but warming it slowly on the stovetop will help maintain the best texture and flavor.
Yes! Swap out the butter for a high-quality olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. You’ll still get a rich, flavorful dish with all the garlic goodness.