Garlic Butter Shrimp is a simple, tasty dish. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a buttery garlic sauce, making them tender and full of flavor. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.

I like to put on some music and cook this dish peacefully. My cat thinks I’m cooking a feast just for him!

If you want, serve these shrimp over rice or pasta. It’s an easy way to make a filling meal that everyone enjoys.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Garlic:

Fresh garlic adds a bold, aromatic flavor. I always use garlic cloves, mincing them finely for even taste. If you’re short on time, garlic powder works in a pinch—use about half the amount as fresh.

Butter:

Butter makes the dish rich and velvety. I prefer unsalted butter so I can control the saltiness, but salted butter works fine too. For a healthier twist, try olive oil, though it won’t be as creamy.

Shrimp:

Use raw, peeled shrimp for the best flavor. I buy peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience. Frozen shrimp works well; just thaw and pat dry to ensure they cook evenly. Fresh seafood adds a brighter taste, if available.

Lemon juice:

A splash of lemon brightens the dish. I squeeze fresh lemon for the best flavor but bottled lemon juice is a quick alternative. Adjust the amount to your liking—more for tang, less if you prefer milder.

Parsley:

Chopped fresh parsley adds color and freshness. I like to sprinkle it on just before serving for a vibrant look. If you don’t have parsley, you can use fresh basil or cilantro for a different twist.

How do I cook shrimp so they stay tender?

Shrimp cook quickly and can become tough if overdone. To keep them tender, cook them just until they turn pink and opaque—about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat immediately once done to prevent drying out.

• Start with a hot skillet to sear the shrimp quickly.
• Add the shrimp in a single layer to avoid overcrowding.
• Cook each side for 2-3 minutes without moving them too much.
• Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Shrimp

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

Garlic & Butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Seasonings & Garnishes

• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

How Much Time Will You Need?

Prep time: 10 minutes | Cook time: 5 minutes | Total: 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry and set aside. Mince garlic and chop parsley if using.

2. Melt butter and cook garlic

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the shrimp

Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through.

4. Season and finish

Stir in salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Cook for another minute. Garnish with parsley if desired.