Quick and Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Name: 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Seafood
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish; Lemon wedges for serving

Recipe By:

Daniel Lawson

Posted:

February 11, 2025

Updated:

February 11, 2025

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Have you ever craved a dish that tantalizes your taste buds and can be prepared in mere minutes? Imagine succulent shrimp swimming in a rich garlic butter sauce, waiting to be savored. This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp is exactly what you need when you’re short on time but don’t want to compromise on flavor.

This dish is not just about speed; it’s about delivering an unforgettable culinary experience. The combination of fresh, juicy shrimp with aromatic garlic and creamy butter creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you wanting more. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or an impressive dish for unexpected guests, this recipe is the perfect solution. Get ready to impress your loved ones with a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare!

Why You’ll Love This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Quick Preparation: This dish can be made in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Flavor Packed: The rich garlic and buttery sauce elevates the shrimp to new heights of deliciousness that everyone will love.
Versatile Serving Options: Serve it over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every bit of the mouthwatering sauce.

Recipe preparation

Ingredients for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Shrimp: Use large, raw shrimp for the best texture; ensure they are peeled and deveined before cooking.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a robust flavor that complements the butter perfectly.
Unsalted Butter: Opt for unsalted butter so you can control the saltiness of the dish better.
Lemon Juice: A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the butter.

For seasoning:

Salt and Pepper: Adjust these seasonings according to your taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and have them ready before starting. This ensures a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter until bubbly.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add the peeled shrimp into the pan. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about three to four minutes until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 5: Add Lemon Juice

Drizzle fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp for a zesty finish. Stir well to combine all flavors.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Transfer your garlic butter shrimp onto plates or bowls. Enjoy it warm with rice or pasta!

Serving and storing

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and garlic enhance flavor significantly compared to frozen or pre-minced options.
Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Keep an eye on the cooking time; overcooked shrimp can become rubbery.
Add Herbs for Extra Flavor: Consider adding chopped parsley or basil as a garnish for added freshness.

Mistakes to avoid

Overcooking the shrimp: One of the most common mistakes is overcooking the shrimp. Shrimp cooks quickly, and if you leave it in the pan for too long, it can become rubbery and tough. Aim for a cooking time of just 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Keep an eye on them to ensure they reach this perfect texture without going overboard.
Not seasoning adequately: Garlic butter shrimp rely on proper seasoning to enhance their flavor. Skipping salt or under-seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Make sure to taste as you go and adjust the seasoning accordingly. A pinch of salt at the start and some fresh herbs at the end can elevate your dish significantly.
Using cold shrimp: Starting with cold or frozen shrimp can impact cooking time and texture. Always thaw shrimp completely before cooking. If you’re using frozen shrimp, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes to speed up thawing. This ensures even cooking and helps achieve that delightful garlic butter sauce consistency.

How to make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

To create your delicious 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp, begin by gathering all necessary ingredients: fresh shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon juice, and parsley. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.

First, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and melt butter until bubbly. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn the garlic as this can lead to bitterness.

Next, add the shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook without stirring for about 2 minutes until they turn pink on one side before flipping them over. After another couple of minutes, add lemon juice and chopped parsley.

Once cooked through, remove from heat immediately to maintain tenderness. Serve your garlic butter shrimp over pasta or rice for a satisfying meal that comes together in no time.

Serving suggestions for Garlic Butter Shrimp

Pairing your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp with complementary side dishes enhances its deliciousness. Consider serving it alongside fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.

A fresh garden salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness, balancing out the richness of the butter sauce. For a heartier option, serve it with crusty bread; it’s perfect for dipping into any leftover garlic butter.

If you prefer pasta, toss cooked spaghetti or linguine directly in the skillet after removing the shrimp for an easy one-pan meal that’s both comforting and elegant.

FAQs

FAQs about 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

What type of shrimp is best for making 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp?

When preparing garlic butter shrimp, choose fresh or frozen large shrimp for optimal flavor and texture. Large shrimp offer a satisfying bite and cook evenly within just a few minutes.

Can I use other types of seafood in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute shrimp with scallops or even fish fillets if desired. Just keep an eye on cooking times since different seafood varieties may require adjustments.

How do I store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp?

To store leftover 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It should stay fresh for up to three days—reheat gently on low heat to preserve its texture.

Can I make this recipe with less garlic?

Yes! If you prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce the amount of garlic used in your recipe while still enjoying delicious garlic butter shrimp without overpowering your palate. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Ingredients

To prepare the delightful 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp, you will need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound of large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional)

– Salt and black pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

– Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp:

1. Begin by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the butter and allow it to melt completely.

2. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.

3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

4. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side until they turn pink and opaque.

5. Flip the shrimp over and cook for an additional 2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked.

6. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

Steamed rice: The buttery sauce complements fluffy rice perfectly.
Pasta: Toss with spaghetti or linguine for a quick dinner option.
Salad: Serve on a bed of mixed greens for a light meal.

FAQs

What can I serve with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp?

The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can serve your garlic butter shrimp alongside steamed rice or pasta to soak up that delicious sauce. For a lighter option, consider placing it over a fresh salad with mixed greens or adding it to tacos for a unique twist.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp for your 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp! Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. Place them in cold water for about 10 minutes if you’re short on time or leave them overnight in the refrigerator.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! The 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp makes an excellent meal prep option. You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat them gently on low heat to maintain their texture.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Certainly! To make your garlic butter shrimp dairy-free, simply substitute olive oil or coconut oil for butter. This will give you similar flavors without any dairy products while still keeping that rich taste.

Conclusion for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

In summary, the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home. The combination of succulent shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. Whether served over pasta or alongside rice, this dish is sure to impress family and friends alike. Enjoy exploring different serving options and variations as you make this delightful recipe part of your culinary repertoire!

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

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Print Recipe

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish that brings the taste of gourmet dining right to your table. In just 15 minutes, enjoy succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of lemon for a hint of brightness. This versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, and it pairs beautifully with fluffy rice, creamy pasta, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of that delicious sauce. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends while satisfying your seafood cravings.

Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: Serves 4