How to Make the Perfect Garlicky Butter Shrimp



Few dishes are as simple yet decadent as garlicky butter shrimp. This dish, with its luscious butter sauce infused with aromatic garlic, is a restaurant-quality meal that takes just minutes to prepare. Whether you're making it for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this shrimp dish is bound to impress.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy: Ready in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
  • Versatile: Serve it over pasta, rice, or enjoy it on its own with crusty bread.
  • Rich in Flavor: The perfect combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp creates an irresistible taste.
  • Customizable: Adjust seasonings and add-ins to suit your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

If your shrimp isn’t pre-cleaned, take a few minutes to peel and devein them. Rinse under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Dry shrimp sear better and absorb more flavor.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 tablespoon of olive oil together. Once the butter is fully melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and slightly golden. Avoid overcooking—shrimp cooks quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.

Step 4: Add the Flavor Enhancers

Once the shrimp is cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and salt & black pepper to taste. Toss everything together until the shrimp is coated in the flavorful sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately while the shrimp is hot and tender.

Serving Suggestions

  • Over Pasta: Toss the shrimp and butter sauce with spaghetti or linguine.
  • With Rice: Serve it over fluffy white or brown rice to soak up the sauce.
  • As an Appetizer: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the garlicky butter sauce.
  • With Vegetables: Pair with roasted asparagus or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic gives the best flavor—avoid pre-minced jarred garlic.
  • Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; as soon as they turn opaque and pink, remove them from heat.
  • Balance the Butter: A mix of butter and olive oil keeps the dish from becoming overly rich while still maintaining flavor.
  • Experiment with Seasonings: Try adding a splash of white wine or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different twist.

Storage & Reheating

  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a bit of extra butter or olive oil to keep the shrimp moist.
  • Freezing: While shrimp can be frozen, it’s best enjoyed fresh as freezing may alter the texture.

Final Thoughts

Garlicky butter shrimp is the perfect dish for busy nights when you need something quick, easy, and absolutely delicious. With just a handful of ingredients and a few simple steps, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and elegance.

Are you ready to try this recipe? Let us know how it turned out in the comments below!

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