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Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

5 from 130 reviews

A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Perfect served over pasta or rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 2 pounds shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails intact or removed
  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh Italian parsley, chopped

Butter and Flavorings

  • ¼ cup plus 2 tablespoons butter, divided
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about ½ of a medium-size lemon)

Serving

  • Cooked pasta or rice, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a colander and rinse them under cold water. Line a large plate or tray with paper towels, spread the shrimp on it, and pat them dry thoroughly with additional paper towels. Set aside near the stove for easy access.
  2. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  3. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook the shrimp for another 1 to 2 minutes until they turn pink and opaque.
  4. Add Remaining Butter and Lemon Juice: Add the remaining ¼ cup of butter and the fresh lemon juice to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and cook for about one more minute until the butter is melted and the shrimp are well coated. Remove the skillet from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste a piece of shrimp and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. Sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve immediately over cooked pasta or rice if you like.

Notes

  • Ensure shrimp are patted completely dry to get a good sear and avoid steaming.
  • Do not overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy; they cook quickly and turn pink when done.
  • Fresh garlic and lemon juice are key to maximizing flavor in this simple dish.
  • Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
  • Optional: garnish with additional parsley or a lemon wedge for presentation.

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, easy shrimp recipe, stovetop shrimp, lemon shrimp, quick seafood dinner