Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp is a delightful dish that brings the flavors of the ocean to your table with a touch of elegance and simplicity. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly flavorful, making it a perfect choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of juicy shrimp, rich butter, and aromatic garlic creates a mouthwatering dish that can be served over pasta, rice, or simply enjoyed on its own. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe that is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why This Garlic Butter Shrimp Stands Out

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe stands out for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to make, taking only about 15 minutes from start to finish. Second, the flavor profile is rich and satisfying, combining the savory notes of garlic with the richness of butter and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. Finally, it’s versatile! You can serve it as a main dish, add it to a salad, or use it as a topping for a delicious pasta dish. The fresh parsley and lemon juice add a bright finish that balances the flavors beautifully.

Ingredient List

To make this Garlic Butter Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, shelled
• Salt, to taste (about 1 teaspoon)
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

Hardware & Gadgets

To prepare this dish, you will need a few essential kitchen tools:

• Large skillet: A good-quality skillet will help you sauté the shrimp evenly.
• Spatula or wooden spoon: For stirring the shrimp and ensuring even cooking.
• Measuring spoons: To measure out your ingredients accurately.
• Knife and cutting board: For chopping garlic and parsley.

Garlic Butter Shrimp: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and quick.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to combine.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt to taste and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes

Once the shrimp are mostly cooked, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir gently to combine, allowing the garlic to infuse its flavor into the butter. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon Juice and Parsley

Remove the skillet from heat and pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss in the chopped parsley and stir everything together until the shrimp are well-coated in the garlic butter sauce.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh green salad.

Customize for Your Needs

Feel free to customize this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe to suit your taste preferences:

• Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Incorporate vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Substitute lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus flavor.
• Pair with your favorite pasta or grain, such as quinoa or couscous.

Errors to Dodge

To ensure your Garlic Butter Shrimp turns out perfectly, avoid these common mistakes:

• Overcooking the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Burning the garlic: Garlic can quickly turn bitter if it’s overcooked. Add it when the shrimp are nearly finished cooking.
• Using frozen shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture.

Shelf Life & Storage

You can store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. For longer storage, you can freeze the shrimp in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Common Qs About Garlic Butter Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. Frozen shrimp can release excess moisture, which may affect the dish’s texture.

What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

This dish pairs perfectly with pasta, rice, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.

How do I know when the shrimp are done cooking?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp just before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Once you’ve enjoyed this delectable Garlic Butter Shrimp, consider trying your hand at these delightful recipes:

Let’s Eat

Now that you have all the tips and steps to create a fantastic Garlic Butter Shrimp dish, it’s time to dig in! This recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings the taste of the sea right to your kitchen. The combination of garlic and butter with perfectly cooked shrimp is simply irresistible. Enjoy the burst of flavors, and don’t forget to share this dish with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Garlic Butter Shrimp

This Garlic Butter Shrimp is quick, elegant, and bursting with flavor!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 15 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Seafood

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp shelled
• 1 teaspoon Salt to taste
• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Measuring Spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Method

 

1. Gather all your ingredients. Make sure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and let it melt.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Sprinkle with salt to taste and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.
4. Once the shrimp are mostly cooked, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
5. Remove the skillet from heat and pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Toss in the chopped parsley and stir everything together.
6. Serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Notes

• Feel free to add more red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Incorporate vegetables like asparagus or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.