Garlic buttered shrimp recipe

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Shrimp:

If you haven’t done so already, peel and devein the shrimp. Leaving the tails on can make for a prettier presentation, but feel free to remove them if you prefer. Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to ensure they sear properly.

2. Heat the Pan:

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on the first side, until they turn a nice pink color and begin to curl. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes on the other side, just until they are fully cooked through. Be careful not to overcook them, as shrimp cook quickly. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the butter. Allow it to melt completely, then stir in the minced garlic. Cook the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until it becomes fragrant and golden (but be careful not to burn it!).

4. Add Flavor:

If you like a bit of spice, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes and paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine the flavors and infuse the garlic butter with a touch of heat and smokiness.

5. Return the Shrimp:

Add the cooked shrimp back to the skillet, tossing them in the garlic butter sauce to coat them evenly. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon for a fresh burst of citrusy flavor, and toss again. Continue to cook for 1-2 more minutes, allowing the shrimp to soak up the sauce.

6. Garnish and Serve:

Remove from heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley over the shrimp for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice, pasta, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up all that delicious garlic butter sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Quick and Easy: With just a few ingredients and less than 15 minutes of cook time, garlic buttered shrimp is the perfect go-to for a weeknight dinner. It’s impressive enough to serve at dinner parties, too.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a rich, savory sauce that complements the shrimp perfectly. The optional red pepper flakes add a subtle heat, while paprika gives a smoky depth. It’s a simple dish with layers of flavor.
• Versatile: You can serve these garlic butter shrimp over a variety of sides, such as pasta, rice, or even a bed of sautéed vegetables. It’s also great for making shrimp tacos, adding to salads, or simply enjoying as an appetizer with a side of crusty bread.
• Perfect Texture: Shrimp are quick-cooking and tender, and when combined with the creamy butter sauce, they offer a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s hard to beat.

Tips for the Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly. Overcooking them can make them rubbery and tough. They are done when they turn pink and opaque, and they curl into a “C” shape. If they’re still slightly translucent in the center, they need another minute or so.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic has a more pungent and aromatic flavor than pre-minced garlic. If you can, always use fresh garlic to really elevate the dish.
• Adjust the Heat: If you’re not a fan of spicy foods, you can skip the red pepper flakes. For a milder version, just focus on the garlic and butter, adding lemon juice for freshness.
• Make it a Full Meal: Serve garlic butter shrimp with a side of roasted vegetables, a green salad, or over pasta for a complete meal. A splash of white wine can also complement the flavors beautifully if you’re looking for a pairing suggestion.

Variations and Customizations:

• Add Veggies: Feel free to add some fresh vegetables to the pan, such as spinach, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini. They’ll absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce and make the dish even more hearty.
• Try Parmesan: For a cheesy twist, sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp just before serving. The creamy, nutty cheese melts into the garlic butter, adding richness to the dish.
• Make it Coconut Garlic Shrimp: For a tropical twist, substitute half of the butter with coconut oil and add a splash of coconut milk for a creamy, slightly sweet flavor.
• Herb Variations: While parsley is the classic garnish, you can try using fresh basil, thyme, or even tarragon to change up the flavor profile.

Final Thoughts:

This Garlic Buttered Shrimp recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy shrimp with minimal effort but maximum flavor. It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent yet is quick enough to make on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this simple yet flavorful dish is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and enjoy a satisfying meal that’s full of savory goodness in every bite!