Go Back

Garlic Butter Shrimp

This garlic butter shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a fragrant garlic and butter sauce. The dish boasts tender, juicy shrimp with a golden, slightly crispy exterior, coated in a rich, aromatic sauce with bright hints of lemon and fresh herbs. Perfect as a comforting main course or a lively appetizer, it comes together in minutes for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 4 tablespoons butter unsalted
  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined with tails on
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice freshly squeezed
  • 1 tablespoon parsley chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for finishing

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Spatula or tongs
  • Small bowl
  • Knife and chopping board

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and wait until it melts, bubbling gently and filling the kitchen with a rich, nutty aroma.
  2. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly. It should become fragrant and slightly golden, filling the air with a sharp, inviting scent.
  3. Place the shrimp into the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes without moving, until the underside turns pink and edges start to curl, creating a slight crispy border.
  4. Flip the shrimp with spatula or tongs and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until they are opaque and firm to the touch. They should be a vibrant pink with a slight bounce when pressed.
  5. Pour in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and sprinkle red pepper flakes over the shrimp. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, allowing the sauce to shimmer and thicken slightly.
  6. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in the chopped parsley. If desired, drizzle with a little olive oil for extra richness and shine. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or more lemon if needed.
  7. Serve immediately, spooning the buttery garlic sauce over the shrimp, and enjoy the tender, flavorful bites that fill the kitchen with a wonderful aroma.