This garlic butter lemon shrimp dish is a quick and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp get tossed in buttery goodness and zesty lemon for a burst of flavor that will make your mouth water.
I love how easy this meal is to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Pair it with some rice or pasta, and you’ve got a delightful feast in no time! 🍤✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for this dish. If fresh shrimp are hard to find, frozen shrimp work too. Just thaw them before cooking. I prefer shrimp with the tails on for added presentation and flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter is best here so you can control the saltiness. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can swap some or all of the butter for olive oil. It adds a nice flavor too!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is a must for that intense flavor. If you’re in a pinch, you can use garlic powder, but the taste won’t be as strong. I always prefer fresh whenever possible!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice and zest give a bright taste. If you’re in a bind, bottled lemon juice can substitute, but fresh is always better. Homemade lemon zest is like a secret ingredient that boosts this dish!
How to Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking Them?
Cooking shrimp might seem tricky, but here’s a simple way to nail it every time! You want them to be pink and opaque, which takes just a few minutes. Here’s how:
- Make sure your skillet is hot enough – that helps to sear the shrimp quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give them space to cook evenly.
- Cook on one side until pink before flipping – usually about 2 minutes.
- Add garlic after flipping to prevent burning. Cook until shrimp is just opaque.
- Remove immediately from heat as they continue to cook off the skillet’s heat.
By following these tips, your shrimp will be perfectly cooked and delicious!
Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and zested
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp takes around 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that comes together in no time, making it perfect for any busy weeknight or a surprise guest!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This step is important to help them get a nice sear. Next, season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika to enhance the flavor!
2. Heat the Skillet:
Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet and let it melt completely. You want the butter to shimmer but not brown yet—this means the pan is hot enough!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook them for about 2 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. This step is key—don’t stir them around too much; let them get that perfect color!
4. Flip and Add Garlic:
Now, flip the shrimp over and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the shrimp are fully pink and opaque, and the garlic becomes fragrant but make sure it doesn’t burn!
5. Make the Sauce:
Once cooked, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest, allowing the flavors to meld together.
6. Combine Shrimp with Sauce:
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them gently to coat in the garlic butter lemon sauce. This is where all those flavors come together beautifully.
7. Serve!
Finally, sprinkle the chopped parsley over the shrimp for a fresh touch. Serve the shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus. Enjoy your flavorful, garlicky, buttery, and zesty shrimp!
This dish is perfect with crusty bread, over rice, or tossed with pasta—enjoy every bite!
What type of shrimp is best for this recipe?
Large shrimp work best for this dish as they are more substantial and hold up well to cooking. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; just be sure to thaw frozen shrimp in the fridge overnight or under cold running water before using.
Can I use other types of butter or oil?
Yes! While unsalted butter is recommended for better control over saltiness, you can substitute it with olive oil or even garlic-infused oil for a different flavor twist. Just keep in mind that the taste will vary slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of lemon juice or broth to keep them moist.
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp?
This dish pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal!