This Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp is a quick and tasty dish! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a buttery, lemony sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
I can’t help but love how easy this recipe is—perfect for a busy weeknight. Serve it over pasta or rice, and you’ve got a meal that’s fancy yet simple! Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen large shrimp works best. If using frozen, just make sure to thaw them first. You can substitute shrimp with scallops or chicken, but cooking times will vary.
Butter: Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness. If you want a healthier option, you can use olive oil instead, though butter adds a rich flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic creates the best taste, but you can use garlic powder in a pinch. Use about 1/8 tsp of garlic powder for each clove if needed.
Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemons are perfect for this dish! If you don’t have fresh lemons, bottled lemon juice works as a substitute, but fresh will always taste better.
Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a nice pop of color and flavor. If you’re in a hurry, dried parsley can work as well, adding it at the same amount.
How Do I Make Sure My Shrimp Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking shrimp just right is essential; you want them tender, not rubbery. Here are some tips:
- Pat the shrimp dry to ensure they sear properly.
- Cook shrimp on medium heat; too high can burn the garlic or overcook the shrimp.
- Keep an eye on the color—they turn pink and opaque when done, usually in 2-3 minutes per side.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; if needed, cook in batches to maintain heat.
How to Make Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 lemons)
- 1 tbsp lemon zest
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Lemon slices, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This lemon butter garlic shrimp dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick and delicious option for lunch or dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them sear better. Then, sprinkle a little salt and pepper on them for seasoning. Set them aside while you heat your pan.
2. Melt the Butter:
In a large skillet, place over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely without browning.
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they turn pink and slightly golden. This will add great flavor.
5. Flip and Add Flavor:
Carefully flip the shrimp over, then add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter along with the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, crushed red pepper flakes (if desired), and half of the chopped parsley to the pan.
6. Finish Cooking:
Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and opaque. Make sure to stir everything around to coat the shrimp in that delicious sauce.
7. Prepare to Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the remaining parsley over the shrimp and garnish with lemon slices for an added touch.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this tasty lemon butter garlic shrimp immediately! Spoon the buttery sauce over the shrimp and enjoy it with rice, pasta, or some crusty bread to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quick thawing. Pat dry before using to avoid excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Lemons?
No worries! You can substitute fresh lemon juice with bottled lemon juice. Use about 2 tablespoons to match the acidity. However, fresh lemons provide the best flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Absolutely! If you like a kick, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes. You can also add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper for more heat.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp again.
