There’s something magical about shrimp sizzling in a rich garlic butter sauce—the aroma alone is enough to make your mouth water! If you love quick seafood meals that feel indulgent yet effortless, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is about to become your new go-to.
With just a handful of ingredients and one pan, you can create a dish bursting with buttery, garlicky goodness in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, with crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or as a protein-packed main, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
Trust me, once you taste these juicy, pan-seared shrimp coated in garlic-infused butter, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make this sooner. Ready to dive into an irresistible seafood feast? Let’s get cooking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is a game-changer. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner or hosting a seafood feast, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Here’s why you’ll love it:
✅ Quick & Easy
This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute crowd-pleaser. With a simple one-pan method, you’ll have a buttery, garlicky shrimp dish ready in no time!
✅ Bursting with Flavor
Each shrimp is pan-seared to juicy perfection, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s enhanced with fresh lemon juice and parsley. The combination of buttery richness and zesty freshness makes every bite irresistible.
✅ One-Pan Convenience
Less cleanup, more enjoyment! Everything cooks in a single pan, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the process effortless and mess-free.
✅ Versatile & Customizable
- Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Want a spicy kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of Cajun seasoning.
- Prefer a deeper flavor? A splash of white wine or chicken broth takes the sauce to another level.
✅ Healthy & Protein-Packed
Shrimp is a lean, high-protein seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients. This dish is not only delicious but also a nutrient-dense meal that keeps you satisfied without feeling heavy.
Whether you’re a seafood lover or just need a go-to dish that’s foolproof yet impressive, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Ready to make it? Let’s dive into the ingredients! 🚀
Ingredients for the Best Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
To create a dish that’s bursting with rich, garlicky flavor, you’ll need a handful of fresh, high-quality ingredients. These simple yet bold elements come together to form a buttery, savory, and slightly zesty seafood masterpiece.
What You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients:
- Shrimp – Large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Fresh is best, but frozen shrimp works—just thaw completely before cooking.
- Butter – Unsalted butter for a silky, flavorful sauce without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for that bold, aromatic flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the shrimp beautifully while preventing the butter from burning.
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon balances the richness of the butter and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (Optional) – For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Parsley – Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and mild herbal freshness.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- White Wine or Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce, making it even more luscious and restaurant-worthy.
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated parmesan can add a savory, umami finish.
- Cajun or Old Bay Seasoning – For an extra bold, smoky twist.
Ingredient Tips for the Best Results:
✅ Use wild-caught shrimp for the freshest taste and best texture. If using frozen shrimp, pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
✅ Fresh garlic makes a difference—it’s more flavorful than pre-minced versions.
✅ Balancing butter and lemon is key! The lemon juice cuts through the richness, making the dish perfectly balanced.
With these ingredients, you’re all set to create a shrimp garlic butter dish that’s as easy as it is unforgettable! Let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking process. 🚀
How to Make Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this dish to life! This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Follow these simple steps, and in no time, you’ll have juicy, buttery shrimp coated in an irresistible garlic-infused sauce.
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
✅ If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by running them under cold water for a few minutes.
✅ Pat the shrimp completely dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully instead of steaming.
✅ Season with salt and black pepper for a simple yet effective flavor boost.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with a slight golden crust.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking! Shrimp cook fast—once they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink, they’re done. If they curl too tightly into an “O” shape, they may be overcooked.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Optional: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 minute to enhance the sauce’s depth.
- Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) and squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
- Let them simmer for 1-2 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and give everything a final stir.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Your shrimp garlic butter is now ready to be served! Pair it with:
✔ Pasta – Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked linguine for a restaurant-worthy meal.
✔ Rice or Quinoa – A hearty, satisfying option to soak up the sauce.
✔ Crusty Bread – Perfect for sopping up every last drop of that buttery, garlicky goodness!
This dish is as simple as it is spectacular—ready in under 20 minutes yet bursting with restaurant-quality flavors. Enjoy your homemade shrimp garlic butter feast! 🍤✨
Pro Tips & Variations for the Best Shrimp Garlic Butter
Want to take this shrimp garlic butter recipe to the next level? Whether you’re looking to enhance flavors, switch up textures, or customize it to your taste, these expert tips and variations will make sure every bite is absolutely perfect.
🔹 Pro Tips for Perfect Shrimp
✔ Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp – Fresh shrimp delivers the best flavor, but if using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry to avoid excess moisture.
✔ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp – Shrimp cook in just 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough, so remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
✔ Sear in a Hot Pan for the Best Texture – Cooking shrimp in a hot skillet gives them a light golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
✔ Balance the Butter with Lemon Juice – The buttery richness is beautifully balanced by a splash of fresh lemon juice, which enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
✔ Layer Your Flavors – Sautéing garlic in butter-infused oil prevents burning and gives you a deep, savory base for your sauce.
🔹 Flavor Variations to Try
👉 Spicy Kick – Love heat? Add extra red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery twist.
👉 Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp – Stir in a splash of heavy cream or grated parmesan cheese for a creamy, indulgent sauce.
👉 Cajun-Style – Toss the shrimp in Cajun seasoning before cooking for a bold, smoky flavor.
👉 Herb-Infused – Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or chives for an herbal lift that complements the garlic butter beautifully.
👉 Wine-Enhanced Sauce – Deglaze the pan with white wine before adding butter for a deeper, restaurant-quality flavor.
👉 Grilled Garlic Butter Shrimp – Instead of pan-searing, skewer the shrimp and grill them for a smoky, charred taste. Brush with melted garlic butter while grilling!
No matter how you customize it, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is versatile, foolproof, and packed with flavor.
How to Serve Shrimp Garlic Butter
This shrimp garlic butter recipe is not just delicious—it’s incredibly versatile! Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a light appetizer, or a hearty meal, there are plenty of ways to serve this dish and make the most of its buttery, garlicky sauce.
🍝 Over Pasta
One of the best ways to enjoy this dish is by tossing the juicy garlic butter shrimp with freshly cooked pasta. Here’s how to do it right:
✔ Linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine – These long noodles soak up the sauce beautifully.
✔ Add extra sauce – If you want a saucier dish, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water or extra butter.
✔ Garnish for extra flavor – Top with grated parmesan, fresh parsley, and a squeeze of lemon for the perfect finishing touch.
🍚 With Rice or Quinoa
If you’re craving a comforting, filling meal, serve your shrimp over a bed of steamed white rice, brown rice, or fluffy quinoa. The buttery garlic sauce seeps into the grains, making every bite irresistible.
🥖 With Crusty Bread
Nothing beats dipping warm, crusty bread into the rich garlic butter sauce! Try serving with:
✔ French baguette – Perfect for soaking up every last drop.
✔ Garlic bread – Double the garlic flavor? Yes, please!
✔ Toasted ciabatta – Adds a nice crunch to contrast the tender shrimp.
🥗 As a Light, Healthy Meal
Looking for a low-carb or keto-friendly option? Pair your shrimp with:
✔ Zucchini noodles (zoodles) – A fresh and healthy pasta alternative.
✔ Steamed or roasted vegetables – Asparagus, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts work beautifully.
✔ A simple salad – Serve over arugula or mixed greens for a fresh and light meal.
🌮 In Tacos
Turn this dish into garlic butter shrimp tacos by serving the shrimp in warm tortillas with:
✔ Shredded cabbage for crunch.
✔ Avocado slices for creaminess.
✔ A drizzle of lime crema for extra zing.
No matter how you serve it, this shrimp garlic butter recipe is guaranteed to be a hit. Now, let’s talk about how to store leftovers and make this dish ahead of time! 🍤✨
Final Thoughts on This Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
This shrimp garlic butter recipe is proof that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a flavor-packed, restaurant-worthy dish. With just one pan and 20 minutes, you’ll have a meal that’s buttery, garlicky, and absolutely irresistible.
Whether you’re serving it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread, this dish is incredibly versatile and perfect for any occasion—be it a quick weeknight dinner or a special seafood feast. Plus, with the easy make-ahead and storage tips, you can enjoy this delicious meal whenever a craving strikes.
Now that you know how to make the best garlic butter shrimp, it’s time to grab your ingredients and get cooking! 🍤✨ Have questions or tried a variation? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear how it turned out!
Shrimp Garlic Butter Recipe
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients:
- Shrimp – Large or jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined. Fresh is best, but frozen shrimp works—just thaw completely before cooking.
- Butter – Unsalted butter for a silky flavorful sauce without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic – Freshly minced garlic is key for that bold aromatic flavor. Avoid pre-minced garlic for the best taste.
- Olive Oil – Helps sear the shrimp beautifully while preventing the butter from burning.
- Lemon Juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon balances the richness of the butter and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness.
- Red Pepper Flakes Optional – For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Parsley – Freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and mild herbal freshness.
- Salt & Black Pepper – Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor:
- White Wine or Chicken Broth – Adds depth to the sauce making it even more luscious and restaurant-worthy.
- Parmesan Cheese – A sprinkle of grated parmesan can add a savory umami finish.
- Cajun or Old Bay Seasoning – For an extra bold smoky twist.
Ingredient Tips for the Best Results:
- ✅ Use wild-caught shrimp for the freshest taste and best texture. If using frozen shrimp pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
- ✅ Fresh garlic makes a difference—it’s more flavorful than pre-minced versions.
- ✅ Balancing butter and lemon is key! The lemon juice cuts through the richness making the dish perfectly balanced.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- ✅ If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely by running them under cold water for a few minutes.
- ✅ Pat the shrimp completely dry with a paper towel—this helps them sear beautifully instead of steaming.
- ✅ Season with salt and black pepper for a simple yet effective flavor boost.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if necessary).
- Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque with a slight golden crust.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overcooking! Shrimp cook fast—once they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink, they’re done. If they curl too tightly into an “O” shape, they may be overcooked.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Optional: Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1 minute to enhance the sauce’s depth.
- Stir in red pepper flakes (if using) and squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a zesty finish.
Step 4: Combine & Finish
- Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them in the garlic butter sauce, ensuring they are well coated.
- Let them simmer for 1-2 minutes to absorb all the flavors.
- Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and give everything a final stir.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Your shrimp garlic butter is now ready to be served! Pair it with:
- ✔ Pasta – Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked linguine for a restaurant-worthy meal.
- ✔ Rice or Quinoa – A hearty, satisfying option to soak up the sauce.
- ✔ Crusty Bread – Perfect for sopping up every last drop of that buttery, garlicky goodness!
Notes
📊 Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Frozen shrimp works perfectly—just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking. The best method is to place them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes. Then, pat them dry to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
❓ How do I prevent shrimp from becoming rubbery?
The key is to not overcook them! Shrimp cooks in just 2-3 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque with a slight curl, they’re done. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked and may be rubbery.
❓ Can I make this shrimp garlic butter recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Swap the butter for a high-quality olive oil or use a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version. The result will still be rich and flavorful with the same garlicky goodness.
❓ What can I substitute for white wine in the sauce?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth, vegetable broth, or a splash of lemon juice. This still adds depth to the sauce while keeping it alcohol-free.
This shrimp garlic butter recipe is easy to customize and foolproof to make! Have more questions? Drop them in the comments below—I’m happy to help! 🍤✨