Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe: A Sizzling Seafood Sensation

Crispy golden shrimp dancing in garlic butter promises a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds sing.

Aromas of melted butter and fresh herbs will instantly transport you to coastal dining experiences.

Simple ingredients combine to create something magical on your plate.

Mediterranean coastal kitchens inspired this quick and delectable seafood delight.

Succulent shrimp absorb rich flavors, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.

Minimal prep work means maximum enjoyment for anyone seeking a restaurant-quality dish at home.

One bite promises to revolutionize your seafood expectations and leave you craving more.

How to Store Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

  • Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
  • Warm shrimp in a skillet over low heat with a splash of butter or olive oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.
  • Place shrimp in a microwave-safe dish, cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking to avoid rubbery texture.
  • Cooked shrimp doesn't freeze well, as it can become tough and lose its delicate texture. Best to enjoy within 2 days of initial preparation.

FAQs About Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

  • What type of shrimp works best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal because they cook evenly and have a nice meaty texture. Choose fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp for the easiest preparation.

  • Can I make this recipe spicy?

Yes, add red pepper flakes to increase heat. Start with a small amount like 1/4 teaspoon and adjust according to your spice preference. You can also use cayenne pepper or hot sauce.

  • How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?

Shrimp turn from translucent gray to pink and curl slightly when fully cooked. They should look opaque and form a loose “C” shape. Overcooking makes them tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully.

Why Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe Is a Flavor Explosion

  • Savor Quick Cooking: Perfectly prepared in mere minutes, this shrimp dish transforms basic ingredients into a restaurant-quality meal without complicated techniques.
  • Customize Flavor Profile: Easily adjust heat levels by controlling red pepper flakes or adding personal spice preferences, making it adaptable for different taste sensitivities.
  • Impress Dinner Guests: Delivers gourmet presentation with minimal culinary skills, creating a sophisticated seafood experience that looks professionally crafted.
  • Master One-Pan Wonder: Requires only a single skillet, minimizing kitchen cleanup and streamlining the cooking process for busy home chefs seeking delicious, stress-free meals.

Ingredients for Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

Main Ingredients:
  • Shrimp: Fresh seafood that serves as the primary protein for this dish.
  • Butter: Rich dairy ingredient that creates a smooth and flavorful base for the sauce.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a deep, savory flavor to the shrimp.
Seasoning and Spices:
  • Salt, Black Pepper: Classic seasonings that enhance the natural taste of the shrimp.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spice that adds a subtle heat and complexity to the dish.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Lemon Juice, Parsley: Fresh ingredients that brighten the flavor and add a zesty, herbal note to the shrimp.

Stepwise Instructions for Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

Step 1: Clean and Season Shrimp

Grab your fresh shrimp and give them a gentle pat dry using paper towels. Sprinkle some salt and pepper across the shrimp, ensuring each piece gets a delicious coating of seasoning.

Step 2: Create Flavor Base

Heat a large skillet over medium flame. Melt butter until it becomes silky and starts to shimmer. Toss in:
  • Minced garlic
  • Red pepper flakes

Stir these ingredients around, letting the garlic dance and release its aromatic magic for 1-2 minutes. Watch carefully to prevent burning.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp to Perfection

Add the seasoned shrimp directly into the buttery garlic paradise. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until they transform into a beautiful pink color and become wonderfully opaque.

Step 4: Brighten with Citrus and Herbs

Once shrimp are cooked, introduce fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. Swirl everything together for an additional minute, allowing flavors to mingle and create a tantalizing sauce.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Transfer those gorgeous shrimp to a serving dish. Pour the remaining garlic butter sauce over the top. Sprinkle extra parsley for a pop of color. Serve with lemon wedges alongside for an extra zesty touch.

Pro Tips for Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

  • Pat shrimp completely dry to achieve perfect golden sear and prevent watery texture during cooking.
  • Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor intensity and avoid burning by keeping heat at medium and stirring constantly.
  • Select large or jumbo shrimp for better presentation and juicier meat that doesn't overcook quickly.
  • Squeeze fresh lemon juice right before serving to maintain bright, zesty flavor and enhance seafood taste.
  • Serve immediately after cooking to preserve shrimp's tender texture and prevent rubbery consistency from prolonged heat exposure.

Flavor Variations of Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

  • Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning instead of salt and pepper, mix in diced bell peppers for extra heat and color.
  • Mediterranean Herb Shrimp: Replace parsley with fresh oregano and thyme, add crumbled feta cheese and kalamata olives for Mediterranean flair.
  • Coconut Curry Shrimp: Swap butter with coconut milk, incorporate mild curry powder and ginger for a creamy, aromatic version.
  • Asian Sesame Shrimp: Use sesame oil instead of butter, add soy sauce, grated ginger, and sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for an Asian-inspired dish.

Pairing Ideas for Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

  • Pair Crisp White Wine: Select a chardonnay or sauvignon blanc to complement the buttery, garlicky shrimp flavors and cut through the richness.
  • Create Herbed Bread Side: Prepare a crusty french baguette or garlic bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce and provide a perfect textural contrast.
  • Match Mediterranean Salad: Craft a light greek-style salad with cucumber, tomatoes, feta cheese, and olive oil dressing that balances the shrimp's intense flavor profile and adds freshness to the meal.
  • Select Zesty Cocktail Pairing: Mix a classic margarita or gin and tonic with fresh lime to enhance the seafood's bright citrus notes and provide a refreshing accompaniment.
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Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe

Garlic Buttered Shrimp Recipe


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4.5 from 27 reviews

  • Total Time: 12-14 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Succulent garlic buttered shrimp sizzle with Mediterranean charm, promising a quick culinary escape. Rich, garlicky butter coats plump prawns, inviting seafood enthusiasts to savor each delectable bite.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 grams) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Seasoning Ingredients:

  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/4 cup (15 grams) fresh parsley, chopped
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt to taste
  • Pepper to taste

Serving Ingredient:

  • Lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Meticulously blot shrimp using paper towels, ensuring complete dryness. Season generously with salt and freshly ground pepper for enhanced flavor profile.
  2. Position a large skillet over medium heat. Gently melt butter until it becomes silky and begins to shimmer. Introduce minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to release aromatic compounds without scorching.
  3. Carefully slide seasoned shrimp into the fragrant butter mixture. Cook approximately 2-3 minutes per side, monitoring color transformation from translucent to vibrant pink, indicating perfect doneness.
  4. Elevate the dish’s brightness by drizzling fresh lemon juice and sprinkling chopped parsley. Allow ingredients to harmonize for an additional minute, creating a cohesive flavor experience.
  5. Artfully transfer succulent shrimp to a serving platter. Cascade remaining garlic-infused butter sauce over the seafood. Embellish with extra parsley and accompany with lemon wedges for personalized zest.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are completely dry before cooking to achieve a perfect golden sear and prevent steaming.
  • Use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for maximum flavor depth and aromatic richness.
  • Avoid overcooking shrimp by watching for the color change from gray to pink, which signals they’re perfectly done.
  • For a low-carb option, serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles instead of traditional pasta.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 7-9 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 192 kcal
  • Sugar: 0.3 g
  • Sodium: 255 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 22 g
  • Cholesterol: 195 mg
Sarah Mitchell

Sarah Mitchell

Content Specialist & Home Cooking Enthusiast

Expertise

  • Making healthy, comforting meals that fit into real-life schedules
  • Planning balanced, single-serving meals for individuals and small families
  • Writing clear, practical food content with a focus on wellness and ease
  • Using seasonal ingredients to bring variety and freshness to everyday meals

Education

Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College – Asheville, NC

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Trained in the basics of professional cooking, with a strong focus on home-style meals, seasonal recipe development, and time-saving kitchen techniques for everyday use.

American Fitness Professionals & Associates – Online

  • Program: Nutrition and Wellness Consultant Certification
  • Focus: Studied how to make healthy eating simple, enjoyable, and accessible

Sarah’s passion for food was sparked by weekend trips to the farmers’ market and her belief that healthy meals should never feel boring.
After earning her culinary diploma and becoming a certified Nutrition and Wellness Consultant, she set out to help others fall in love with simple, wholesome cooking.
She’s all about celebrating the small wins in the kitchen: a colorful yogurt bowl, a new twist on a classic dish, or a homemade snack that feels just a little extra special.
Outside the kitchen, Sarah is a gardener at heart, a yoga enthusiast, and a believer that fresh herbs can brighten any meal, and any day.

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