Shrimp dishes are a delightful way to enjoy a light yet flavorful meal. This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is simple, fast, and incredibly delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this restaurant-quality dish in no time. The buttery garlic sauce pairs perfectly with juicy shrimp, making this recipe a versatile choice for pasta, rice, or a low-carb option like zucchini noodles.
Why This Recipe Is Perfect
- Quick to Make: Ready in just 10 minutes, ideal for busy nights.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything you need in your kitchen.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and a hint of lemon is irresistible.
- Versatile: Great as a main course or appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
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- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
1️⃣ Prep the Shrimp
- If using frozen shrimp, thaw them by running cold water over them for 5-10 minutes.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper for a simple yet flavorful base.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, as shrimp can become rubbery.
- Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.
3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Using the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in the red chili flakes and let them infuse the butter for a spicy kick.
- Pour in the chicken broth or white wine. Use a wooden spoon to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits stuck to the bottom. This adds rich flavor to your sauce.
- Add the lemon juice and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors.
4️⃣ Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss them gently in the garlic butter sauce until fully coated.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the shrimp to absorb the flavors.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley over the shrimp for garnish and added freshness.
5️⃣ Serve and Enjoy
Serve the garlic butter shrimp hot. Here are some serving suggestions:
- Over a bed of linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine.
- Paired with jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the sauce.
- As a light option with zucchini noodles or steamed vegetables.
- With crusty bread on the side for dipping into the buttery sauce.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Choose the Right Shrimp: Use medium to large shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp are ideal, but frozen shrimp work great when properly thawed.
- Control the Heat: Keep the heat on medium while cooking the garlic butter sauce to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Deglaze Properly: Always scrape the skillet when adding the broth or wine to capture the full flavor of the browned bits.
- Don’t Overcook: Remove the shrimp from the skillet as soon as they turn pink to maintain their tender texture.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 200 kcal |
| Total Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes! Pre-cooked shrimp can be used, but reduce cooking time. Simply toss them in the sauce for 1-2 minutes to heat through.
2. What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can use vegetable broth, white wine, or even water with a pinch of salt as substitutes.
3. How do I store leftovers?
Store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking.
4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a vegan alternative or additional olive oil.
Why This Dish is a Crowd-Pleaser
Garlic butter shrimp strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and elegance. The buttery sauce clings to the shrimp, delivering a rich, savory bite every time. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
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