Save This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp has rescued countless weeknights in my house when I need something impressive and satisfying in a hurry. Plump shrimp sizzle in garlicky butter and a spritz of lemon for a melt-in-your-mouth dish that tastes restaurant-worthy but is totally doable with a single skillet and a handful of simple ingredients.
I first threw this together with a bag of shrimp from my freezer on a busy evening Guests were wowed and now it is my favorite back-pocket recipe for last-minute invites or tired weeknights
Ingredients
- Large raw shrimp: peeled and deveined They cook fast and absorb flavors well Choose firm translucent shrimp that smell fresh
- Unsalted butter: You control the seasoning and it adds richness to the sauce Look for European-style or high butterfat options for best flavor
- Fresh garlic: Finely minced for maximum aroma Avoid pre-minced for the brightest taste
- Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed gives a bright pop and balances the butter Heavy lemons feel juicy and fresh
- Parsley: Fresh parsley adds color and freshness Choose vibrant green leaves
- Salt: Brings out all the natural shrimp sweetness Choose fine sea salt for easy dissolving
- Black pepper: Adds gentle heat and depth Go with freshly ground for the best spice kick
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp:
- Make sure shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen Pat them dry between paper towels This step prevents steaming and helps the shrimp sear beautifully
- Sauté the Garlic:
- Melt half the butter in a large skillet over medium heat Add diced garlic and stir gently for about thirty seconds until you smell a fragrant aroma The garlic should look pale not brown
- Cook the Shrimp:
- Add shrimp in a single layer to the sizzling butter Let them cook undisturbed for about two minutes or until the bottoms go pink Flip each shrimp and cook another one to two minutes until opaque Plump and just firm is what you want
- Add Lemon and Finish:
- Pour in the lemon juice and the rest of the butter Stir everything gently so the butter melts and mixes with the shrimp juices Creating a glossy sauce happens in about one minute
- Season and Garnish:
- Sprinkle in salt and black pepper to taste Toss with fresh parsley right before serving The heat releases the herb’s oils for a final burst of freshness
Save The way fresh garlic infuses the butter might be my favorite thing about this recipe Each time I cook it the kitchen smells so inviting My kids remember this as the meal we made together when someone surprised us with a visit and we needed dinner fast
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator Eat within two days for best flavor and texture Shrimp gets tough if you microwave it too long so reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap fresh parsley with cilantro for a different twist Lime juice works if you are out of lemons Dairy free butter or olive oil gives you a lighter version
Serving Suggestions
Tuck shrimp over creamy grits or steamed rice for a Southern-style dinner Pile into buttered rolls for quick shrimp sandwiches Spoon with all the garlic butter over noodles and toss for a comforting pasta meal
Cultural Context
Garlic butter shrimp is a favorite along the Gulf coast and in Southern homes Often served with grits at brunch or supper this dish works for any gathering When I visited New Orleans the best meal I had was sitting at a busy counter eating just-cooked shrimp with crusty bread
Seasonal Adaptations
Serve with ripe tomatoes and fresh corn in summer for a full meal Add a pinch of smoked paprika or chili flakes for fall warmth Mix in baby spinach near the end for a winter green boost
Handy Tips
Always use dry shrimp before cooking Finish with butter off heat for the best creamy sauce Keep cooked shrimp covered if making ahead to prevent drying
Success Stories
Friends who claimed they did not like shrimp have come back for seconds after trying this recipe It is always the first dish gone at potlucks My sister texted me her version just last week using lime and cilantro saying it was a total hit
Freezer Meal Conversion
You can freeze prepped raw shrimp in a zip bag with garlic and butter cubes When ready to cook just thaw and proceed as usual The sauce comes together in minutes and no flavor gets lost
Save Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy restaurant-worthy shrimp in less than fifteen minutes. This dish guarantees a flavorful shortcut to a memorable weeknight meal.
Recipe Guide
- → How do you prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
Cook shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side, to maintain a tender texture.
- → Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry to avoid extra water in the pan for the best sear and flavor.
- → What pairs well with garlic butter shrimp?
Serve alongside pasta, rice, or bread. Fresh salads or steamed vegetables also complement its taste.
- → Can I add other spices or herbs?
Absolutely. Try chili flakes for heat or fresh parsley for added brightness to elevate the flavors.
- → How do I avoid greasy sauce?
Balance the butter with a touch of lemon juice, and don’t overcrowd the pan for a well-emulsified sauce.
- → Is this suitable for meal prep?
This dish is best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to two days.