Garlic butter shrimp is a dish that dances on your palate like a salsa party in your mouth. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich, golden garlic butter sauce, perfuming the air with its irresistible aroma. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to grab a hunk of crusty bread and mop up every last drop of that buttery goodness.

The best part? This recipe is as easy to whip up as it is delicious. Picture yourself impressing your friends or family with this delightful dish on a cozy dinner night or during an impromptu gathering. And trust me, the flavor explosion will keep them coming back for more!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Garlic butter shrimp offers a flavor-packed experience that’s ready in under 30 minutes
- The vibrant presentation makes it visually stunning for any occasion
- Perfect for date night or casual get-togethers, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table
- Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—serve it over pasta, rice, or even on its own!
This recipe has become my go-to for quick weeknight dinners when I want something fancy without spending hours slaving away in the kitchen. One time, I made this for my parents’ anniversary dinner; their delighted reactions made all the effort worth it!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Large Shrimp: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp (thawed) with shells removed for the best texture and taste.
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Unsalted Butter: Use high-quality butter to enhance the richness of the sauce.
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Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for a fragrant punch; minced garlic elevates the flavor profile.
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Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the butter.
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Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness; finely chop it before adding.
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Red Pepper Flakes: Use these for a subtle kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by gathering and prepping all your ingredients. Mince the garlic, chop the parsley, and if using fresh shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined.
Sauté Garlic in Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly and fragrant. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown—about 1-2 minutes.
Add Shrimp to Skillet: Toss in your shrimp and season them with salt and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
Add Lemon Juice & Parsley: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over cooked shrimp while stirring in chopped parsley. This adds brightness and freshness to each bite.
Serve Hot!: Remove from heat and serve immediately over pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up all that luscious garlic butter sauce—enjoy every savory bite!
Now you’re ready to impress yourself with how easy yet gourmet garlic butter shrimp can be! Perfectly cooked shrimp bathed in buttery goodness is not just food; it’s an experience that you’ll want to share again and again. So grab those ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s make some magic happen in that kitchen!
You Must Know
- Garlic butter shrimp is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor
- Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests
- Pair it with crusty bread or over pasta for an unforgettable meal
- The aroma alone will have everyone asking for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by melting the garlic in butter over medium heat, then add the shrimp. This ensures the shrimp cook evenly while absorbing that delicious garlic flavor.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize with spices like paprika or a splash of white wine for extra depth. Fresh herbs like parsley can also elevate this dish beautifully.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain the shrimp’s tenderness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best taste
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this allows for better searing
- Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving to ensure maximum flavor
Cooking garlic butter shrimp is one of those magical moments in my kitchen where time stands still, and all you can hear is sizzling goodness.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp for garlic butter shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely before cooking for even flavors and textures.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or a fresh garden salad.
How do I know when the shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp should turn pink and opaque; avoid overcooking to keep them tender.

Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Indulge in the irresistible taste of garlic butter shrimp, a quick and flavorful dish that will elevate any meal. With plump shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce, this recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, every bite is an explosion of flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves fresh garlic (minced)
- 2 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by mincing the garlic, chopping the parsley, and ensuring the shrimp are peeled and deveined.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden brown (1-2 minutes).
- Add shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and red pepper flakes. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp while stirring in chopped parsley.
- Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the buttery sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Seafood
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (200g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 220mg