Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
Shrimp garlic butter combines the delicate sweetness of shrimp with rich, savory garlic butter. This quick and indulgent dish is perfect for seafood lovers, offering restaurant-quality flavors in just 20 minutes. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
- Lemon wedges for garnish
Optional
- 1 tablespoon grated Pecorino Romano cheese
- Freshly grated lemon zest
Instructions
- Rinse 1 lb of shrimp under cold water and pat dry. Ensure they’re peeled and deveined. Drying the shrimp helps them cook evenly and prevents excess water in the pan.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 5 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt and gently toss the shrimp in the buttery garlic sauce. Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and stir for about 1 minute to combine.
- Sprinkle 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley over the shrimp. Stir gently and serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best results.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to control spiciness.
Twists and Variations
- Shrimp and Zoodles: Replace pasta with zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
- Cajun Style: Add Cajun seasoning for a spicy Southern kick.
- Shrimp Skewers: Grill shrimp on skewers and brush with garlic butter while cooking.
- Creamy Sauce: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for richness.
Tips for Perfecting
- Use cold butter to create a stable sauce.
- Medium heat prevents shrimp from becoming rubbery.
- Toss shrimp in a light flour coating for a crispier texture.
