Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fast and flavorful seafood favorite. Juicy shrimp cook in a buttery, garlicky sauce that’s ready in just 10 minutes. A touch of lemon and fresh parsley brings everything to life. This dish is gluten free, low carb, and ideal for both quick weeknight meals and special dinners. It’s similar to shrimp scampi but lighter, fresher, and made without wine.
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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp
You’ll love how quick, simple, and full of flavor this Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is. It comes together in 10 minutes yet tastes restaurant worthy. The shrimp stay tender and juicy, the garlic butter is rich and aromatic, and the lemon adds a clean, zesty finish. You can serve it with pasta, rice, or veggies for an easy dinner everyone enjoys. It fits perfectly into keto, gluten free, and Whole30 lifestyles. Plus, the buttery aroma fills your kitchen almost instantly, creating that cozy, home cooked feel every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Shrimp
Use about one and a half pounds of large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined. Wild caught shrimp have the best flavor and firm texture.
Butter
Butter creates the silky, rich base for the sauce. Use four tablespoons for that perfect glossy coating. For dairy free or Whole30 versions, substitute ghee or plant based butter.
Garlic
Six cloves of fresh minced garlic give this recipe its signature taste. Cook it just until fragrant so it stays sweet and mellow.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice, about three tablespoons, cuts through the butter for a bright, tangy balance that lifts every bite.
Parsley
Two tablespoons of chopped parsley add color and freshness. You can also swap in basil, cilantro, or tarragon for a little twist.
Seasonings
A pinch of kosher salt and ground black pepper brings everything together. Keep it simple so the garlic and butter shine through.
How To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
Melt and Infuse the Butter
Start by melting the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until it smells fragrant. Stir gently and watch carefully so it doesn’t brown.
Cook the Shrimp
Add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly curled. Flip once for even cooking. They should look plump, not dry. Take care not to overcook them or they’ll turn rubbery.
Add Lemon and Parsley
Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the lemon juice and parsley. Toss the shrimp until fully coated and glossy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve immediately while warm and juicy.
Pro Tips for Success
Choose wild caught shrimp for the best taste. Don’t overcrowd the pan so they cook evenly. Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic. Add lemon juice at the end for a fresh finish. Most importantly, remove the shrimp from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp over steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or al dente pasta. It’s also delicious with zucchini noodles or in crisp lettuce wraps for a lighter meal. Add sides like coleslaw, grilled vegetables, or roasted asparagus. This dish works great for family dinners, meal prep, or quick lunches during the week.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Let shrimp cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of butter or oil. Avoid using the microwave so the shrimp don’t become tough.
Common Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly once thawed.
How do I thaw shrimp quickly?
Place the shrimp in a colander and run cold water over them for a few minutes.
What size shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo shrimp cook evenly and stay juicy.
Can I make this dairy free or Whole30?
Yes, use ghee or plant based butter for the same flavor and texture.
How can I tell when shrimp are done?
They turn pink, opaque, and curl slightly into a C shape when ready.
Other Recipes You May Enjoy
- Cajun seafood boil with garlic butter sauce
- Maryland crab soup authentic recipe
- Bang bang salmon recipe – quick & easy
- Christmas baked salmon festive recipe
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp is quick, easy, and full of mouthwatering flavor. Every bite bursts with buttery garlic and a touch of lemon that keeps it light and fresh. It’s the perfect go to for busy nights or elegant dinners. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again. For more recipe inspiration and meal ideas, visit Pinterest.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Equipment
- Large skillet Use stainless steel or nonstick
- Wooden spoon For stirring butter and garlic
- Tongs To flip shrimp easily
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1 lemon juiced (about 3 tablespoons)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
- Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Toss until shrimp are evenly coated in sauce. Serve immediately.
