Garlic Butter Shrimp
A delicious, quick-to-make shrimp dish bursting with buttery garlic and fresh lemon flavor. High in protein, low in carbs, and ready in just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, light dinners, or easy meal prep.
Equipment
- Large skillet – 1
- Colander – 1
- Plate or tray (1)
- Paper towels (a few sheets)
- Measuring cups – 1 set
- Measuring spoons – 1 set
- Knife – 1
- Cutting board – 1
- Spatula or tongs – 1
Ingredients
- 2 pounds shrimp peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice about ½ medium lemon
- 1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley chopped
- Cooked pasta or rice for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold running water using a colander to remove any residual grit or shell fragments. Once rinsed, place them on a large plate or tray lined with several layers of paper towels. Gently pat each shrimp dry to remove moisture, which is essential for achieving a perfect sear. Set the prepared shrimp aside near the stove so they are ready for cooking.
- Melt Initial Butter: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of butter. Allow it to melt slowly until it becomes a light golden color and releases a rich, nutty aroma. Keep a close eye to prevent burning, as this base will form the foundation of your shrimp’s flavor.
- Sauté the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. Be careful not to overcook, as burnt garlic can develop a bitter taste. This step infuses the butter with deep, aromatic flavor, setting the tone for the dish.
- Add the Shrimp: Carefully place the dried shrimp into the skillet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Sprinkle evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This seasoning enhances the shrimp’s natural taste without overpowering it.
- Cook First Side of Shrimp: Allow the shrimp to cook without disturbance for approximately 2 minutes. This allows them to develop a light golden sear while retaining juiciness. Avoid stirring too early, as this can prevent proper browning and flavor development.
- Flip the Shrimp: Using tongs or a spatula, gently turn each shrimp to the opposite side. Cook for another 1–2 minutes until they turn pink, curl slightly, and become firm to the touch. This ensures even cooking without overcooking, which can make shrimp rubbery.
- Add Remaining Butter and Lemon Juice: Reduce heat slightly and add the remaining ¼ cup butter. Pour fresh lemon juice over the shrimp while gently stirring to evenly coat them in the sauce. Continue cooking for about 1 minute, allowing the butter to melt completely and infuse with lemon brightness.
- Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste one shrimp to check seasoning balance. Add additional kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, or lemon juice if desired. This ensures your dish is perfectly seasoned before serving.
- Add Fresh Herbs: Turn off the heat and sprinkle chopped fresh Italian parsley over the shrimp. Gently toss to combine. The parsley adds freshness, color, and a mild herbal note that perfectly complements the buttery sauce.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the shrimp hot, either on their own or over pasta or rice for a complete meal. Spoon extra buttery garlic sauce over the shrimp, and garnish with parsley or lemon wedges if desired. For best flavor and texture, enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Always use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- Patting shrimp dry before cooking is key to getting a perfect sear.
- Adjust garlic quantity to your preference — more garlic will intensify flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice rather than bottled for a bright, natural taste.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture; shrimp can become rubbery if reheated excessively.
- This recipe is adaptable for gluten-free or low-carb diets.
- Parsley can be substituted with cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
