Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
If you’re looking for a fast, flavor-packed dish that works for busy weeknights and special dinners, this Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a guaranteed hit. Juicy shrimp sizzle in a buttery garlic sauce, brightened with fresh lemon and a hint of spice. This Mediterranean-inspired dish is simple, elegant, and unbelievably delicious — plus it pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, quinoa, or crusty bread. Best of all? It’s ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish!
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 3–4
Ingredients
500g shrimp (peeled & deveined)
3 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
5–6 garlic cloves, finely minced
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp chili flakes (optional but recommended)
1 tsp Italian seasoning OR oregano
Salt & black pepper to taste
Juice of 1 lemon
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Optional: 1 tbsp honey for a slight sweet glaze
Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel.
Season lightly with salt, pepper, and paprika.
(Helps get a nice color!)
Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil + 1 tbsp butter in a pan over medium heat.
Add garlic and cook for 30–40 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer.
Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and curled.
Sprinkle chili flakes and Italian seasoning.
Make the Lemon Butter Sauce
Add remaining 2 tbsp butter, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Toss shrimp to coat everything in the glossy sauce.
Cook another 1 minute only.
Finish & Serve
Turn off heat.
Add chopped parsley on top.
Taste and adjust lemon or seasoning if needed.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp
Don’t overcook shrimp — they turn rubbery. Remove as soon as they turn pink.
For extra flavor, use fresh lemon instead of bottled.
Add honey if you like a slightly sweet, restaurant-style glaze.
Make it creamy by adding 2 tbsp cream at the end.
Great add-ins: spinach, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms.
Health Benefits
Shrimp is high in lean protein and low in calories.
Garlic supports immunity & heart health.
Lemon aids digestion and adds vitamin C.
Butter + olive oil balance flavor without heavy cream.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is the kind of recipe you’ll make again and again — effortless, delicious, and perfect for meal prep or quick dinner cravings. Serve it over pasta, rice bowls, salads, or enjoy it as a standalone protein-packed dish. It’s fresh, zesty, buttery, and irresistible!
