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This garlic butter shrimp is my solution when I want a showstopper meal with almost zero effort. In less than twenty minutes, plump shrimp get bathed in golden garlicky butter with just the right amount of heat and brightness from lemon. Whether you are serving it over rice or scooping straight from the skillet with crusty bread, it always impresses.
I pulled off this dish for surprise guests with only a few minutes to spare and every time I make it my family devours every last shrimp right out of the pan.
Ingredients
- Olive oil: gives gorgeous sear and helps the butter not burn I go for extra virgin if possible for the best flavor
- Butter: unsalted for creamy richness pick high quality if you can it really shines
- Shrimp: fresh or frozen and thawed look for firm texture and a briny sea smell avoid any that seem slimy or with a strong odor
- Salt: brings the flavors together start with a small amount and add as needed
- Garlic: fresh minced for bold flavor always worth using real cloves over jarred for this dish
- Red pepper flakes: offer a gentle heat adjust to your taste or skip if serving little ones
- Lemon juice: freshly squeezed lifts the sauce and balances the richness pick a lemon that feels heavy for its size for the most juice
- Fresh parsley: for color and freshness flat-leaf has a more robust flavor than curly
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Pan:
- Heat olive oil and two tablespoons of butter in your skillet over medium high until the butter just starts to foam This gets you the perfect sizzle when the shrimp hit the pan
- Sear the Shrimp:
- Spread shrimp in a single layer and cook two to three minutes until the underside turns pink and slightly golden Sprinkle with salt during this step for even seasoning
- Flip and Finish Searing:
- Turn the shrimp over and cook about two more minutes The edges should curl up and the pink color should be fully opaque
- Add Garlic and Heat:
- Sprinkle in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes Stir constantly for thirty seconds and watch carefully so the garlic does not brown or burn This is where all that garlicky aroma comes alive
- Sauce and Garnish:
- Turn off the heat immediately Add the remaining butter letting it melt into the pan with the lemon juice and parsley Toss gently to coat every shrimp and spoon sauce over them
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Parsley is my absolute favorite addition because its bright flavor balances all the richness of the butter and keeps the sauce from feeling heavy One time my sister asked for a giant bowl of just the sauce and bread after tasting the parsley lemon combo
Storage Tips
Let leftover shrimp cool fully then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days If freezing pack shrimp flat in freezer bags and store up to four months I like to reheat from frozen straight in a skillet with a splash of water so they stay plump
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ghee or vegan butter for dairy free needs If you love extra zest grated lemon peel is a welcome boost For more herbiness try snipped chives or dill in place of parsley
Serving Suggestions
Serve over buttered rice tangle in linguini or pile atop crisp toast For parties I arrange the shrimp on a platter with lemon wedges and toothpicks or spoon the garlicky pan sauce over roasted veggies
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Cultural and Historical Context
Garlic butter shrimp is a modern classic in American kitchens but its roots trace back to Mediterranean and French cuisines where cooking seafood fast with butter and aromatics is a beloved technique The combo’s popularity comes from that magical hit of garlic lemon and fresh herbs
Commonly Asked Questions
- → What kind of shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo, shelled shrimp are ideal, as they cook evenly and stay tender in the skillet. Always choose fresh or properly thawed shrimp for best texture and flavor.
- → How do I avoid overcooking shrimp?
Sauté the shrimp on medium-high heat until they just turn pink, typically 2-3 minutes per side. Remove from heat as soon as color changes to prevent a rubbery texture.
- → Can I adjust the spiciness?
Absolutely. Increase or decrease the red pepper flakes to suit your preference, or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
- → What are good serving ideas?
Serve over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful garlic butter. It's also delicious atop a fresh green salad.
- → How long does cooked shrimp keep?
Store cooled shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days, or freeze for up to 4 months for later meals.