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20-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp You’ll Want to Make Again and Again
There are weeknight dinners, and then there are legendary weeknight dinners. This 20-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp firmly belongs in the latter category. It’s the kind of deceptively simple recipe that feels luxurious and special, yet comes together in less time than it takes to get delivery.
Imagine plump, juicy shrimp pan-seared to perfection, then swirled in a rich, aromatic sauce of melted butter, fresh garlic, a splash of white wine, and a bright squeeze of lemon. It’s incredibly versatile—serve it over pasta, fluffy rice, or with a crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of that irresistible sauce. Get ready to add this one to your regular rotation!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
* Blazing Fast: Truly ready in 20 minutes from start to finish.
* Restaurant-Quality: Impressive enough for date night, easy enough for a busy Tuesday.
* Incredibly Versatile: A perfect protein to pair with your favorite sides.
* Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these pantry staples already.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp
(Yields 2-3 servings)
* 1 pound (450g) large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or off)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
* 4-5 large garlic cloves, minced
* 1/4 cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), or substitute with chicken broth
* 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
* 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret to a good sear and not steaming them. Season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Don't overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Step 4: Deglaze and Simmer
Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where all the flavor lives! Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces slightly.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly in the glorious garlic butter sauce. Stir in the fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This garlic butter shrimp is a star player! Here are a few ways to serve it:
* Over Pasta: Toss with linguine or angel hair pasta for a classic Shrimp Scampi vibe.
* With Rice: Serve atop a bed of fluffy jasmine rice, basmati rice, or cauliflower rice.
Bread Lovers' Dream: Grab a crusty baguette or some garlic bread to sop up every bit of the sauce.
Healthy Bowl: Serve over zucchini noodles or with a side of roasted asparagus.
Tips & Tricks for the Best Shrimp
* Don't Overcook the Shrimp: They cook very quickly! Once they form a "C" shape and are pink, they're done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
* Use Fresh Garlic: For the brightest flavor, fresh minced garlic is unbeatable. Jarred minced garlic can have a slightly different, sharper taste.
* Customize the Sauce: Add a tablespoon of capers for a briny punch, or finish the sauce with a pat of cold butter at the end for an extra glossy, luxurious texture.
FAQ
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight first. Pat them very dry before seasoning and cooking.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
Is the white wine necessary?
While it adds a wonderful depth of flavor, you can absolutely omit it. Use an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth, or even just a little more lemon juice and water.