Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe combines succulent shrimp with rich garlic butter for a quick, delicious meal.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2025-12-28T16:22:02.567Z

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that perfectly complements the tender shrimp.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Rich flavor from garlic and butter that elevates the dish
Versatile and pairs well with pasta, rice, or vegetables

      

The Perfect Weeknight Meal

When life's hustle and bustle makes cooking seem daunting, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe emerges as a savior. It takes just a matter of minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. The simplicity of the ingredients means you can whip this dish up even after a long day at work, ensuring that you still enjoy a home-cooked meal without the stress.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its ability to deliver a gourmet experience with minimal effort. The rich flavors of garlic and butter envelop the shrimp, creating a delightful dish that feels indulgent yet requires very little time to make. Serve it with your favorite side and you have a meal that is not just quick but also impressively delicious.

Flavor Profile That Dazzles

Garlic butter is a culinary match made in heaven, and this recipe showcases its delightful ability to enhance the natural sweetness of the shrimp. The addition of paprika adds a subtle warmth and earthiness, balancing the richness of the butter perfectly. Together, these flavors create a symphony that dances on your palate, making each bite a memorable experience.

Furthermore, the fresh parsley and lemon juice not only brighten the dish but also add a refreshing contrast to the rich garlic butter. This harmony of flavors makes it easy to see why this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is a favorite among many households. Whether you are cooking for family or entertaining guests, this dish promises to impress.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the standout features of this Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is its versatility. It pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, making it a flexible option for any meal. Serve it over a bed of pasta for a hearty dinner, alongside rice for something comforting, or toss it in with sautéed vegetables for a nutritious option. The choice is yours!

You can also adapt the flavors to suit your preferences. Want a bit of heat? Add some crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Prefer a more citrusy flavor? Swap the lemon juice for lime juice or even add a splash of white wine while cooking. This recipe provides a fantastic base that allows for creativity, ensuring that you can make it your own.

Ingredients

Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting to cook for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.

Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add the Shrimp

Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

Finish the Dish

Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice and chopped parsley before serving.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers from this Garlic Butter Shrimp dish, storing them is simple. Place the cooled shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 2 days. When you're ready to enjoy them again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain the flavors without overcooking the shrimp.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just be sure to thaw them in the refrigerator before reheating.

Pairing Suggestions

To complete your Garlic Butter Shrimp meal, consider pairing it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. The acidity in these wines complements the richness of the garlic butter beautifully, enhancing your dining experience.

For a more casual option, serve the shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce. A simple salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish, making for an all-around satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?

This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or a fresh garden salad.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter ahead of time and cook the shrimp right before serving.

→ What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?

Large or jumbo shrimp work best as they hold up well during cooking and provide a satisfying bite.