Garlic Butter Shrimp

Shrimp dishes always bring back fond memories of family gatherings and summer cookouts. Growing up, my mother used to make a simple yet flavorful garlic butter shrimp dish that was always a hit. The sizzling sound of shrimp hitting the hot pan and the fragrant aroma of garlic and butter wafting through the kitchen made it nearly impossible to wait for dinner.

If you’re new to cooking, this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is perfect for you. It’s quick, uses simple ingredients, and delivers bold, restaurant-quality flavors without requiring advanced skills. Plus, it’s a one-pan recipe with minimal cleanup, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. Whether you’re making this for a casual dinner or impressing guests, you can’t go wrong with this dish.

Why This Recipe is Special

• Beginner-Friendly – Requires minimal ingredients and simple steps.
• Quick and Convenient – Ready in under 20 minutes.
• Versatile – Can be served over rice, pasta, or as an appetizer.
• Healthy and Light – Packed with lean protein and good fats.
• Minimal Cleanup – Uses just one pan for cooking.

Ingredients and Preparation

Ingredients

• Shrimp – The star ingredient. Opt for large or jumbo shrimp that are shelled and deveined for convenience. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them properly.
• Garlic – Fresh garlic provides the best flavor. It gives the dish its signature taste.
• Butter – Adds richness and helps create the sauce. Unsalted butter is recommended for better control of seasoning.
• Olive Oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and adds a mild fruitiness.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the butter. Freshly squeezed is best.
• Red Pepper Flakes – Adds a subtle heat. You can adjust or omit based on preference.
• Parsley – A fresh herb that adds color and a mild earthy flavor.
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

Ingredient Substitutions

• Shrimp → Can be swapped with scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Butter → Use ghee or a vegan butter alternative.
• Olive Oil → Substitute with avocado oil or canola oil.
• Red Pepper Flakes → Use paprika for a milder heat or cayenne for more spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Let the butter melt and coat the pan evenly.

Step 2: Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until the shrimp turn pink and slightly opaque on one side.

Step 3: Flip the shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes on the other side. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can turn rubbery if left on the heat too long.

Step 4: Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the pan. Stir quickly, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid letting the garlic burn, as it can turn bitter.

Step 5: Stir in the remaining butter, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Mix everything together and let the flavors meld for about 30 seconds.

Step 6: Turn off the heat and serve immediately. Enjoy your shrimp as a main dish, an appetizer, or tossed into pasta, rice, or salad.

Beginner Tips and Notes

• How to Tell if Shrimp is Cooked: Shrimp will turn from gray to a bright pink color and curl into a “C” shape when fully cooked. If it forms a tight “O,” it’s likely overcooked.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: If you’re cooking a large batch, cook the shrimp in two rounds. This ensures even cooking and a slight sear on the shrimp.
• Thawing Frozen Shrimp: Never thaw shrimp at room temperature. Instead, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes or thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Enhancing Flavor: For an extra kick, add a splash of white wine while cooking the garlic or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Over Rice – Serve over fluffy white rice or brown rice for a satisfying meal.
• With Pasta – Toss with cooked spaghetti or linguine for an effortless seafood pasta.
• On Toast – Spoon the shrimp and butter sauce over garlic bread for a luxurious appetizer.
• With Vegetables – Pair with sautéed spinach, asparagus, or roasted green beans for a well-balanced meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: Allow cooked shrimp to cool completely before storing in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen for best results.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a game-changer for beginner cooks. With its simple steps, quick prep time, and mouthwatering flavors, you’ll find yourself making this dish again and again. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting a dinner, this recipe delivers elegance with minimal effort.

Give it a try and let me know how it turned out in the comments. What did you serve it with? Did you make any modifications? I’d love to hear your experiences. Happy cooking.

FAQ About Garlic Butter Shrimp

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• Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken and Green Beans Skillet
• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi

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