Garlic butter shrimp is one of those dishes that feels luxurious yet is incredibly easy to make. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful, juicy, and tender shrimp dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests. If you’re wondering how to make garlic butter shrimp, you’re in the right place! This article will guide you step-by-step through the process, share tips for the best results, and inspire you to enjoy this delightful seafood treat.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp
The beauty of garlic butter shrimp is in its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
– Shrimp: About 1 pound of raw shrimp, peeled and deveined. Medium to large shrimp (16-25 count per pound) work best. You can use fresh or fully thawed frozen shrimp.
– Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness.
– Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, for that vibrant, aromatic punch.
– Lemon: Fresh lemon juice (and zest if you like) adds brightness and balances the richness.
– Parsley: Fresh chopped parsley to add a fresh, herbal note.
– Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and optionally Italian seasoning or dried oregano.
– Optional: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
1. Prepare Your Shrimp
If your shrimp isn’t already peeled and deveined, start by doing that. To devein, make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp and pull out the dark vein. Rinse and pat dry with paper towels to ensure they sear nicely without steaming.
2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Shrimp
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt about 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once melted and hot, add the shrimp along with salt, pepper, and any dried herbs you like. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink but aren’t fully opaque yet.
3. Add Garlic and Finish Cooking
Flip the shrimp and add the minced garlic. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, basting the shrimp occasionally with the butter to infuse the garlic flavor. The shrimp should turn fully pink and opaque but be careful not to overcook, or they’ll become rubbery.
4. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. This adds freshness and a lovely citrusy brightness that complements the rich butter and garlic perfectly. Give everything a gentle toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your garlic butter shrimp immediately. It pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, crusty bread, or a fresh salad. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like some heat.
Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp
– Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure they sear well and don’t steam.
– Use Fresh Garlic: It makes a big difference in flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
– Keep Shrimp Dry: Patting shrimp dry before cooking helps them brown nicely.
– Butter Basting: Spoon the melted garlic butter over the shrimp while cooking to maximize flavor infusion.
– Leave Tails On (Optional): Cooking shrimp with tails on adds flavor and makes for a pretty presentation.
– Add a Twist: Try adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth to deglaze the pan for extra depth.
Variations to Try
– Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
– Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese for a luscious sauce.
– Herb Variations: Swap parsley for cilantro, basil, or thyme for different flavor profiles.
– Cheesy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Sprinkle with parmesan cheese just before serving for a savory finish.
Garlic butter shrimp is a quick, flavorful dish that can elevate any meal with minimal effort. With juicy shrimp bathed in a rich, garlicky, buttery sauce brightened by lemon and fresh herbs, it’s no wonder this recipe is a favorite for seafood lovers everywhere. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste in just minutes.
Enjoy your cooking and savor every bite of your homemade garlic butter shrimp!