Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Perfect Recipe
If you need a quick meal that tastes like restaurant quality, garlic butter shrimp is the answer. It is rich, juicy, and full of flavor thanks to the perfect combination of butter, garlic, and spices. Best of all, it cooks in just a few minutes, making it ideal for lunch or dinner.
Whether you serve it with rice, pasta, or crusty bread, this dish is guaranteed to impress with minimal effort. Once you try it, you will want to make it again and again.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Shrimp (peeled and deveined) | 1 pound |
| Butter | 3 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Paprika | ½ teaspoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Fresh parsley | For garnish |
Step by Step Instructions
Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Melt the Butter
Heat a pan over medium heat and melt the butter until it starts to bubble.
Cook the Garlic
Add minced garlic and cook for a few seconds until fragrant without burning.
Sear the Shrimp
Place shrimp in the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until pink.
Add Lemon and Paprika
Drizzle lemon juice and sprinkle paprika to enhance flavor and color.
Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Tips for Customizing the Recipe
Add chili flakes if you like a touch of heat with every bite. Replace lemon juice with lime for a sharper citrus flavor. Mix in honey or brown sugar for a sweet and savory version. Toss the shrimp with cooked pasta for an instant meal. Add spinach or bell peppers to make it more colorful and nutritious. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the buttery sauce.
Nutritional Information
Shrimp is naturally low in calories and high in protein, making this recipe a healthier choice compared to heavier meats. Butter adds richness but can be reduced or replaced with olive oil for a lighter option. Garlic offers immune boosting benefits without adding extra calories. Lemon provides vitamin C and helps balance the richness. This dish is satisfying while still fitting into balanced eating.
Serving Suggestion
Serve garlic butter shrimp over rice, pasta, or quinoa for a complete dinner. Pair with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. Add a fresh salad or steamed vegetables on the side for balance. It also works perfectly as a taco filling or appetizer. Garnish with extra lemon wedges for brightness. This dish is versatile and fits any occasion.
How to Store and Keep Fresh
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan with a little butter to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving for too long to prevent toughness. You can also freeze the cooked shrimp, but thaw fully before reheating. Do not store it with rice or pasta to maintain texture.
Conclusion
This garlic butter shrimp recipe is proof that delicious food does not need to be complicated. With simple ingredients and quick steps, you get a dish that is rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Try it once and it will earn a permanent spot in your weekly menu.
FAQs
Q1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Q2. Can I make it without butter?
You can substitute butter with olive oil, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Q3. How do I know when shrimp is cooked?
It turns pink and curls slightly, so avoid overcooking to keep it tender.
