Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp

This garlic herb butter shrimp recipe is perfect for when you want a quick meal full of bright, fresh flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines succulent shrimp with a rich garlic butter sauce infused with herbs and a touch of lemon to keep things lively. Whether you are making a weeknight dinner or an appetizer for guests, this dish delivers satisfying taste with minimal fuss.

I remember making this dish during a busy week and loving how it felt like a restaurant meal at home in no time. It quickly became a favorite that I return to whenever I want something impressive yet easy.

Ingredients

• Shrimp: One pound of large shrimp preferably 16-20 count peeled and deveined for the perfect texture and juiciness
• Butter: Four tablespoons of butter which creates a rich base and helps the shrimp develop a delicious sear
• Garlic: Two to three teaspoons of freshly minced garlic to add robust aroma and depth, fresh always beats pre-minced here
• Lemon juice: Juice of one lemon for a bright, zesty finish that lifts the whole dish
• Italian seasoning: One teaspoon of Italian seasoning giving herbaceous layers and balance
• Salt: Salt to taste for enhancing all the natural flavors
• Pepper: Pepper to taste adding a little punch and complexity
• Parsley: One tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley for a fresh, vibrant garnish and color

Ingredients

Look for plump, firm shrimp that smell clean and fresh. Organic butter or European style butter with higher fat content will yield a creamier sauce. Always choose bright green parsley stems for the freshest taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp:

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is vital to get a good sear rather than steaming them. If not already peeled and deveined, do so now and remove tails if you want easier eating.

Mince and Chop Aromatics:

Finely mince two to three teaspoons of fresh garlic and chop one tablespoon of fresh parsley. Having these ready will streamline the cooking process and allow you to add flavors at the right moments.

Sauté the Shrimp:

Heat a large pan over medium-high heat and melt four tablespoons of butter, being careful to watch so it doesn’t brown. Add the shrimp to the pan along with one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about three to five minutes, stirring occasionally until they turn pink and are opaque.

Add Garlic and Lemon:

When the shrimp are almost done, stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute so the garlic releases its aroma but does not burn. Then squeeze in the juice of one lemon and stir in the chopped parsley just before serving.

Serve Immediately:

This dish tastes best fresh and hot, showcasing bright garlic and herb flavors with buttery richness and tangy lemon.

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My favorite ingredient here is the fresh garlic because it fills the kitchen with an irresistible scent that signals something special is cooking. One holiday, I made this for a family gathering, and it disappeared so quickly everyone asked for seconds, proving how crowd-pleasing it is.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days for best flavor and texture. To keep shrimp from getting rubbery, reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water instead of microwaving. For longer storage, freeze cooked shrimp in a sealed bag within two hours of cooking and thaw slowly in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need to go vegan, substitute shrimp with king oyster mushrooms and use plant-based butter to preserve the buttery richness. For a protein variation, scallops or chicken breast work well. Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can replace parsley for different flavor profiles. Instead of lemon juice, lemon zest offers a more subtle citrus note.

Serving Suggestions

Serve garlic herb butter shrimp over steamed rice or cooked pasta to turn it into a full meal. A side of sautéed greens like spinach or kale complements the richness nicely. For appetizers, skewer the shrimp or serve alongside a crusty baguette to soak up the buttery sauce. A crisp white wine pairs beautifully as well.

Pro Tips

• Always pat shrimp completely dry before cooking to get the best sear and more flavor
• Use fresh garlic instead of pre-minced to maximize aroma and brightness
• Cook shrimp in batches if making a large quantity to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking and golden color

Commonly Asked Questions

→ What type of shrimp works best for this dish?

Large shrimp, preferably 16-20 count size, provide a tender texture and juicy bite ideal for quick searing in butter.

→ How can I ensure the shrimp cooks perfectly?

Patting shrimp dry before cooking prevents steaming and helps achieve a golden sear; cook only until pink and opaque to avoid toughness.

→ Can I customize the herbs used?

Yes, swapping parsley with basil, cilantro, or fresh dill can add different herbaceous notes to suit your taste.

→ What are some good alternatives for a vegan version?

King oyster mushrooms or firm tofu cooked in plant-based butter mimic the texture and richness while keeping the dish savory.

→ How should leftovers be stored and reheated?

Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

→ Is it possible to add some spices for a kick?

Adding smoked paprika or red pepper flakes during cooking introduces a pleasant spicy layer without overpowering the garlic butter notes.