This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish with tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for busy nights and full of flavor in every bite.
I like to double the garlic for that extra punch. Sometimes I sneak in a squeeze of lemon—makes it even brighter!
Serve it over pasta or rice for a simple, delicious meal. I keep some chopped parsley nearby to sprinkle on top—adds a nice fresh touch!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds that punchy, aromatic flavor. I recommend mincing finely for even distribution. No fresh garlic? garlic powder works in a pinch, just cut the amount in half to prevent overpowering the dish.
Butter: Rich, creamy butter gives the sauce a smooth texture and depth. I like unsalted butter so I can control the salt. For a dairy-free option, try vegan butter or olive oil, which also adds flavor but less richness.
Shrimp: Juicy, tender shrimp are the star here. Use peeled, deveined shrimp for easier cooking. If fresh isn’t available, frozen works great—just thaw thoroughly and pat dry to prevent splattering.
Lemon juice: Brightens the dish with a zingy citrus note. Fresh lemon juice offers the best flavor—just squeeze it fresh. Bottled lemon juice is okay in a pinch but can be slightly less vibrant.
Olive oil: Adds a little extra flavor while cooking the shrimp. Use a good quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste. If you don’t have olive oil, any neutral vegetable oil is fine.
How do I sear shrimp without it drying out?
Searing shrimp properly means quick high heat and proper timing. Pat the shrimp dry first to get a good sear. Cook in a hot skillet with oil or butter, arranging them in a single layer. Flip once the edges turn pink and opaque—about 1-2 minutes per side.
- Use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan to prevent steaming.
- Cook in batches if needed to keep the pan hot.
- Avoid overcooking—shrimp turn from pink to white quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation time: 10 minutes. Cooking time: 10 minutes. Total time: 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry. Toss with salt, pepper, paprika, and half of the garlic. Set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over low heat. Add remaining garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Stir in lemon juice and parsley.
4. Combine and Serve
Add shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce. Serve immediately over rice or pasta. Enjoy!
