Garlic Butter Shrimp
Intro
When you’re looking for a quick yet flavorful dish, Garlic Butter Shrimp is the ultimate winner. Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe combines tender shrimp with rich butter, fragrant garlic, and a splash of lemon. It’s elegant enough for a dinner party but simple enough for a busy weeknight. Serve it with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or even over a fresh salad — it’s versatile, delicious, and guaranteed to be a favorite.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8 minutes
Total time: ~18 minutes
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined (tails on or off)
3 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
2 tbsp olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp (5 minutes)
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels (helps them sear instead of steam).
Season lightly with salt and black pepper.
Heat the Pan (1 minute)
In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp butter + 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat until hot and shimmering.
Cook the Shrimp (4 minutes)
Add shrimp in a single layer.
Cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside on a plate.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce (2 minutes)
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
Add remaining 1 tbsp butter and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and red pepper flakes.
Combine & Finish (2 minutes)
Return shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the sauce until coated and warmed through.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and adjust seasoning with salt/pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve over buttery rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
Pair with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Chef’s Tips
Don’t overcook shrimp — they cook very quickly and can turn rubbery if left too long.
Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for extra depth of flavor.
Use jumbo shrimp for a more impressive presentation.