Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a true culinary delight – incredibly quick to prepare, yet bursting with rich, savory flavors that will impress everyone. It features plump, tender shrimp bathed in a luxurious sauce of melted butter, fragrant minced garlic, and often a hint of lemon and fresh herbs. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed; it comes together in mere minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight meal, an elegant appetizer, or a fantastic addition to a more elaborate dinner party.

The high heat searing ensures the shrimp cook quickly and remain juicy, while the garlic-infused butter creates an irresistible coating that begs to be sopped up with crusty bread or served over pasta or rice. It’s a versatile, naturally gluten-free (if served without certain accompaniments) and low-carb option that champions the vibrant taste of fresh ingredients, proving that extraordinary flavor doesn’t require a complicated process. This recipe is a testament to how a few simple, quality ingredients can create a truly memorable and satisfying dining experience.

Ingredients:

  • For the Shrimp:
    • 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp (21/25 count or larger), peeled and deveined, tails on or off (tails on add visual appeal)
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (½ stick)
    • 5-6 cloves garlic, minced (or more, to your preference for intense garlic flavor)
    • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
    • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional, but highly recommended for brightness)
    • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
    • Optional: a splash of white wine or chicken broth for extra depth in the sauce

Instruction:

  1. Prepare the Shrimp:
    • If using frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, or in the refrigerator overnight.
    • Once thawed, pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. This is a crucial step that ensures the shrimp will sear and caramelize nicely rather than steam.
    • Season the dry shrimp evenly with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the Pan:
    • Place a large skillet (a cast-iron skillet or a large non-stick pan works well) over medium-high heat. Allow the pan to get hot for a minute or two. This high heat is important for quickly searing the shrimp.
  3. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic:
    • Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the hot skillet. Let the butter melt until it’s foamy but not browned.
    • Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the melted butter. Sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden. Be very careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
  4. Cook the Shrimp:
    • Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Try not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, cook the shrimp in two batches to ensure they sear properly and cook evenly.
    • Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, depending on their size. Shrimp cook very quickly. They will turn opaque and curl into a “C” shape when done. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery, so watch them carefully! The exact time will depend on the size of your shrimp.
  5. Finish the Dish:
    • Once the shrimp are cooked through, remove the skillet from the heat.
    • Stir in the fresh lemon juice (if using). The acidity brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the butter and garlic.
    • If you like, you can add a splash of white wine or chicken broth at this stage, stirring quickly to deglaze the pan and create a bit more sauce.
    • Finally, stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
  6. Serve Immediately:
    • Transfer the garlic butter shrimp and all the delicious sauce to a serving platter or individual plates.
    • Serve immediately with your favorite accompaniments. This dish is fantastic with:
      • Crusty bread for dipping in the garlic butter sauce
      • Cooked pasta (like linguine or spaghetti)
      • Steamed rice or quinoa
      • A simple side salad or steamed vegetables
      • As an appetizer on its own.

Enjoy this incredibly flavorful and easy-to-make Garlic Butter Shrimp!

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