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Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic Butter Shrimp

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe features juicy medium to large shrimp cooked quickly in a rich, garlic-infused butter sauce with a touch of lemon and fresh parsley. Ready in under 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a fast, flavorful dinner that pairs well with pasta, rice, or crusty bread. Simple ingredients and easy steps make this dish versatile, customizable, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a good sear and retain juices during cooking.
  2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet over medium heat, gently melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until pink and slightly golden, then flip and cook the other side until opaque and fully cooked through.
  4. Add Lemon Juice and Seasoning: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well to evenly coat the shrimp in the flavorful sauce.
  5. Finish with Fresh Herbs: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately for best taste and texture.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the shrimp; cook only until pink and opaque to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Use fresh minced garlic for optimal flavor, avoid pre-minced varieties.
  • Pat shrimp dry before cooking to achieve a nicely seared surface.
  • Adjust the amount of butter based on how rich and saucy you prefer the dish.
  • Taste and adjust lemon juice, salt, or pepper before serving to customize flavor.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, shrimp recipe, quick shrimp dinner, easy seafood, weeknight dinner, garlic shrimp, buttery shrimp