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Garlic Butter Shrimp

This dish features succulent shrimp coated in a rich, fragrant garlic butter sauce that clings to each piece, creating a glossy, flavorful coating. The shrimp are quickly sautéed until tender and pink, with the sauce simmering to a silky finish. Served over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread, it offers a perfect balance of savory, buttery, and garlicky flavors with a satisfying texture.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined preferably deveined and peeled for quick cooking
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced fresh garlic for pungency and aroma
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter adds richness and gloss to the sauce
  • 1 tbsp olive oil helps prevent garlic from burning
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice brightens the dish at the end
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes adds subtle heat
  • 2 tbsp chopped parsley fresh parsley for garnish and freshness
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasoning for shrimp

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Knife
  • Spatula
  • Measuring spoons
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps them sear better. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot, about 2 minutes. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing the butter to melt and foam.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly. Keep an eye to prevent burning—the garlic should turn golden, releasing a warm aroma.
  4. Place the shrimp in the skillet in a single layer and cook for about 2 minutes, until the edges start to turn opaque and develop a slight char. Flip the shrimp and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and firm.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium, then add the remaining tablespoon of butter and sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Stir gently to coat the shrimp with the flavorful butter, allowing it to melt and create a glossy sauce.
  6. Squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and stir quickly to brighten the flavors. The sauce should shimmer and cling to the shrimp, creating a luscious coating.
  7. Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp and give everything a gentle toss to combine. Turn off the heat to prevent overcooking and allow the flavors to meld for a minute.
  8. Transfer the garlic butter shrimp to a serving dish, spooning the sauce over each piece. Serve immediately with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a delightful, flavorful meal.

Notes

Ensure not to overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and turn rubbery when overdone. For extra flavor, add a splash of white wine or a pinch of smoked paprika in the sauce.