If you’re craving a dish that bursts with flavor yet comes together in a flash, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly tender shrimp bathed in a luxuriously rich and garlicky butter sauce, brightened by fresh lemon juice and herbs, it’s a meal that feels indulgent but is effortlessly simple. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or aiming to impress guests without stress, this recipe hits all the right notes with minimal ingredients and maximum taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important in creating the perfect balance of richness, zest, and freshness in the Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe. Each one plays a special role, from the succulent shrimp to the fragrant garlic and the bright, citrusy lemon juice that elevates the dish beautifully.
- 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star of the dish, shrimp cook quickly and soak up all the buttery garlic goodness.
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Essential seasoning that enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and sauce.
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided): Adds a creamy, silky texture and rich flavor that brings everything together.
- 5 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable warm, aromatic punch.
- 1/4 cup chicken stock: Adds depth and helps create the perfect sauce consistency.
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice: Provides a fresh, tangy brightness to cut through the richness of butter.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves: Offers a pop of color and a herbaceous note to finish the dish.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Start by seasoning your peeled and deveined shrimp with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This simple step ensures that every bite is perfectly seasoned, allowing the natural sweetness of the shrimp to shine through.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp in batches, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 to 3 minutes. Set the shrimp aside once done to keep them tender and juicy, ready to be tossed back into the sauce later.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook until the aroma fills your kitchen—just about 1 minute. This step releases all the garlic’s savory goodness without browning it, which keeps the sauce flavorful without any bitterness.
Step 4: Create the Sauce Base
Pour in the chicken stock and freshly squeezed lemon juice, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer until it reduces by half, about 1 to 2 minutes. This step concentrates the flavors and prepares the base for the luscious butter sauce.
Step 5: Add the Butter
Gradually stir in the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter, adding it one tablespoon at a time while stirring continuously. This technique ensures the butter melts smoothly into the sauce, giving it a rich, velvety texture that clings beautifully to the shrimp.
Step 6: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce. This allows the shrimp to soak up all the flavors, making every bite delectably rich and satisfying.
Step 7: Serve Immediately
Once everything is combined and heated through, serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe immediately. Timing is key here, so the shrimp retain their perfect texture and the sauce remains silky and warm.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley leaves adds a fresh, herbaceous burst and a lovely splash of green that makes the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious. You can also add a little grated Parmesan or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra depth and a slight kick.
Side Dishes
Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Serve it over a bed of steaming white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try it with roasted vegetables or a crisp, green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant meal, plate the shrimp atop a bed of linguine or fettuccine and drizzle the buttery sauce over the pasta. Alternatively, use the shrimp as a stunning topping for crusty garlic bread or serve in individual small bowls with slices of lemon on the side to let guests customize their zest levels.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It’s best eaten within two days to enjoy the shrimp at their freshest and to keep the sauce from losing its vibrant flavor and texture.
Freezing
While shrimp tend to lose some texture after freezing, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce separately in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently to avoid overcooking.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on low heat in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Take care not to overheat to keep the shrimp tender and the sauce creamy without breaking the butter emulsification.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid unwanted moisture diluting the sauce.
What can I substitute for chicken stock?
If chicken stock isn’t available, vegetable stock or even a light seafood broth work wonderfully and keep the flavor profile intact.
How can I make this recipe spicy?
Add red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic or finish with a dash of hot sauce to bring some heat without overpowering the buttery garlic flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! All the ingredients in this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe are naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with gluten sensitivities.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just be sure to cook the shrimp in batches so they don’t steam and become rubbery, keeping each batch perfectly tender.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it. It’s a dish that combines incredible flavors with minimal fuss, perfect for any occasion. So gather your ingredients, embrace that garlicky butter sauce, and enjoy a meal that feels like a special treat every single time.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe features succulent medium shrimp simmered in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce with hints of lemon and fresh parsley. Perfect for a quick and elegant meal that comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 1/2 pounds medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided)
- 5 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup chicken stock
- 3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves
Instructions
- Season Shrimp: Season the peeled and deveined medium shrimp evenly with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, ensuring the seasoning enhances the shrimp’s natural flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, add the shrimp and cook, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and are cooked through, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, approximately 1 minute, being careful not to burn the garlic to maintain a delicate flavor.
- Add Liquids and Simmer: Pour in the chicken stock and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer until the liquid is reduced by half, about 1-2 minutes, concentrating the flavors of the sauce.
- Incorporate Butter: Gradually stir in the remaining 6 tablespoons of butter, adding 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring continuously until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and glossy.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and gently toss them in the garlic butter sauce to ensure each piece is well coated and heated through.
- Serve: Serve the garlic butter shrimp immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley leaves for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Serve over cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- To save time, use pre-minced garlic, although fresh garlic will provide the best flavor.
- Ensure shrimp are not overcooked to keep them tender and juicy.
