Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon is a simple yet elegant dish that brings together juicy shrimp, rich butter, aromatic garlic, and the zesty brightness of fresh lemon. This recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just minutes, making it a go-to choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes with minimal prep and cleanup.

• Flavorful: The rich garlic butter sauce combined with lemon juice enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp.

• Versatile: Perfect as a main dish or served over pasta, rice, or with a crusty loaf of bread.

• Healthy Option: Shrimp is low in calories and high in protein, making this a balanced and nutritious meal.

• Elegant Yet Simple: Ideal for entertaining or treating yourself to something delicious and satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• Unsalted butter

• Olive oil

• Fresh garlic, minced

• Red pepper flakes (optional)

• Fresh lemon juice

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and black pepper.

2. Cook the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a portion of the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Sauté the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.

4. Add Lemon and Butter: Lower the heat slightly and add the lemon juice and remaining butter. Stir to coat the shrimp evenly in the sauce.

5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 6–8 minutes

• Total Time: 10–13 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce.

• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Stir in a few tablespoons of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce.

• Citrus Twist: Use a mix of lemon and lime juice for a deeper citrus flavor.

• Vegetable Add-Ins: Add spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus to the pan for extra color and nutrition.

• Herbed Garlic Butter: Mix in fresh basil, thyme, or dill for a different herb profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Avoid using the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp.

• Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as shrimp can become rubbery when thawed and reheated.

FAQs

How do I know when the shrimp are done?

Shrimp are fully cooked when they are pink and opaque with a slight curl. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure they are completely thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the pan.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free.

What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?

It pairs well with pasta, rice, couscous, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time and cook just before serving.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

You can, but they should only be warmed through briefly to avoid overcooking.

What kind of shrimp works best?

Large or jumbo raw shrimp are ideal. They offer better texture and are less likely to overcook quickly.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer for a few extra minutes to reduce slightly or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water.

Can I add wine to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of white wine can enhance the flavor. Add it after the garlic and let it simmer before adding shrimp.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a dairy-free alternative or use more olive oil.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lemon is a flavorful, elegant dish that’s as easy to make as it is impressive to serve. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a gourmet meal any night of the week. Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, this shrimp recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.