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garlic butter shrimp coated in glossy butter sauce inside a cast iron skillet with chopped parsley and lemon slices

Garlic Butter Shrimp

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is quick, flavorful, and ready in just 20 minutes. Juicy shrimp are cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon and parsley, making it the perfect seafood dinner for busy weeknights. Serve it with pasta, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 315
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Shrimp

  • 1½ pounds large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Garlic Butter Sauce

  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large skillet or cast iron pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Tongs
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1½–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium.
  6. Add the butter to the same skillet.
  7. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
  8. Add the lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
  9. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss until evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce.
  10. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

✔ Cook the shrimp in a single layer to achieve a beautiful golden sear.
✔ Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough and rubbery.
✔ Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor of the garlic butter sauce.
✔ Serve over pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread to enjoy every bit of the sauce.
✔ This recipe is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein.