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Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

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3.9 from 3 reviews

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich and flavorful garlic butter sauce enhanced with fresh lemon juice and zest. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect quick and impressive seafood dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Shrimp

  • 1 pound shrimp (16/20 count size, peeled and deveined)
  • ¾ teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter (divided)
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Defrost Shrimp: Place frozen shrimp in a colander and run under cold water until no longer icy, about 3 minutes, or submerge them in a bowl of cool water until defrosted. Drain and pat dry thoroughly with paper towels.
  2. Season: In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp with ½ teaspoon kosher salt and ¼ teaspoon black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
  3. Cook the Garlic: Heat a large skillet over low heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter and let it melt. Add minced garlic and cook while stirring for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: Increase heat to medium and add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook until the shrimp turn pink on the bottom and start curling, approximately 2 minutes. Flip shrimp and cook for another 2 minutes until fully pink and opaque.
  5. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to low and create a small well in the center of the skillet. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest, remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk the ingredients gently until a lightly thickened emulsified sauce forms, coating the shrimp evenly.
  6. To Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are patted dry before cooking to prevent steaming and promote a better sear.
  • Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; avoid browning to keep the sauce delicate and aromatic.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.
  • Adjust salt according to taste and dietary needs.
  • For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the garlic.