Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Recipe Overview
This Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp, rich butter, and aromatic garlic with a burst of freshness from lemon. Whether you’re looking for a light dinner, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a topping for pasta or rice, this easy recipe has you covered. In just 15 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish that’s loaded with flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2-3 tablespoons)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic
- In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes. Stir frequently until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it can become bitter.
Step 3: Add Shrimp
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. This helps them cook evenly and prevents overcrowding.
- Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on each side or until they turn pink and are fully cooked through. Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overcook them!
Step 4: Add Lemon and Seasonings
- Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and stir to coat them in the zesty flavor.
- If you like a little spice, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the shrimp to add a kick.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve hot and enjoy your Garlic Butter Shrimp with your favorite side, pasta, or over rice.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve as a standalone appetizer with crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter.
- Toss with linguine or spaghetti for a quick and delicious pasta dish.
- Serve over rice or quinoa for a light and flavorful meal.
- Pair with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete, balanced meal.
Tips and Variations
- Add some veggies: You can easily turn this into a one-pan dish by adding vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or cherry tomatoes during the last couple of minutes of cooking.
- Make it creamy: For a creamy twist, stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream or cream cheese when you add the lemon juice.
- Extra heat: If you like your shrimp spicier, use cayenne pepper or chili flakes instead of red pepper flakes.
This Garlic Butter Shrimp is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough to serve for a special occasion. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s a flavorful, fuss-free dish that will quickly become a family favorite!