This Garlic Butter Shrimp is a tasty treat that brings the flavors of garlic and butter together with juicy shrimp. It’s quick to make and perfect for dinner nights!
You can serve it over pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every last drop! 🦐❤️
I love how fast this dish comes together—just a few minutes and it’s ready. It’s a fantastic recipe that impresses without stressing me out!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for this recipe, but feel free to opt for medium shrimp or even frozen shrimp if fresh isn’t available. Just thaw them before cooking. I find that wild-caught shrimp usually taste better, but farm-raised can be more budget-friendly.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best since you control the saltiness. If you want to lighten it up, you can substitute olive oil or use a mix of olive oil and butter for a richer flavor without too much heaviness.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor, but garlic powder can work in a pinch. Use about 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove. Personally, I love adding an extra clove for more garlic goodness!
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a kick, but if you’re sensitive to spice, leave them out or use another mild seasoning. Paprika can be a great alternative for adding warmth without the heat.
Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you don’t have a lemon, lime juice works too. Just keep in mind the flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
How Do I Sauté Garlic Without Burning It?
Sautéing garlic can be tricky, as it burns quickly. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Keep the heat medium to prevent burning while the butter melts.
- Add garlic as soon as the butter is melted and sizzling, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes.
- Once you smell the garlic’s fragrant aroma, that’s your cue to move to the next step. If it starts turning brown, lower the heat!
By keeping an eye on the garlic, you’ll enhance the entire dish without that bitter burnt taste. Enjoy making your Garlic Butter Shrimp!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp Dish:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious garlic butter shrimp can be prepared in just about 15 minutes! You’ll spend around 5 minutes getting everything ready and another 10 minutes cooking. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melting the Butter:
Start by taking a large skillet and placing it over medium heat. Add the 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt completely. This will create a rich, buttery base for your shrimp.
2. Adding Flavors:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and, if you like a bit of heat, the red pepper flakes. Sauté this mixture for about 1-2 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you want the garlic to become fragrant but not brown!
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Raise the heat to medium-high and carefully add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle some salt and black pepper to taste. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. Keep cooking them until they turn a lovely pink and opaque color—they’re done when they lose their transparent look!
4. Finishing Touches:
Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze the lemon juice over them and give everything a good toss to coat the shrimp nicely. Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh flavor.
5. Serving:
Serve your garlic butter shrimp immediately! You can place some lemon wedges on the side for those who like a little extra zing. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight, or you can place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking to ensure they sauté properly!
Can I Substitute Olive Oil for Butter?
Yes, you can use olive oil instead of butter if you want a lighter option or are looking for a dairy-free alternative. The flavor will be slightly different, but it will still be delicious! Use the same amount—4 tablespoons of olive oil will work well.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of lemon juice or water if needed to prevent dryness. Avoid microwaving, as it may toughen the shrimp.
Can I Add Vegetables to the Dish?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, or spinach can enhance the dish and make it more filling. Just sauté them in the butter before adding the garlic, then follow the recipe as usual. Make sure they’re cooked until tender before adding the shrimp!
