I’ve been perfecting this garlic shrimp recipe for years, and it’s become my go-to when I want something quick but packed with flavor. The combination of buttery richness, fresh garlic, and a hint of lemon creates a dish that feels indulgent yet simple. Whether you serve it over pasta or with crusty bread, the key is in the technique—but I’ll let you discover that for yourself.
Recipe
If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to impress, this garlic shrimp recipe is your new go-to. It’s one of those meals that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to whip up—perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.
The secret? A generous amount of fresh garlic (yes, don’t hold back!) cooked in golden butter until it’s fragrant and irresistible. Tender shrimp soak up all that garlicky goodness, finished with a splash of lemon juice for a bright, zesty kick.
The result? Juicy, succulent shrimp with a rich, savory sauce that’s begging to be soaked up with crusty bread or spooned over pasta. Trust me, one bite and you’ll be hooked. Let’s get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
Ingredients
Garlic shrimp is all about simplicity and letting the ingredients shine. The right components guarantee a dish that’s flavorful, tender, and aromatic. Here’s what you’ll need:
Shrimp:
– 16 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined**** – Fresh is best, but frozen works too if thawed properly. Pat them dry to avoid watery results.
Garlic:
– 6 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for this dish. Pre-minced just doesn’t deliver the same punch.
Butter & Oil:
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create a luxurious sauce.
- 2 tbsp olive oil – Balances the butter and prevents burning when cooking the garlic.
Seasoning:
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes – Adds a subtle heat; adjust to your preference or omit if sensitive to spice.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper – Freshly cracked is ideal for the best aroma.
Citrus:
– 1 lemon, juiced – Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish; bottled won’t give the same zest.
Herbs:
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped – Adds a fresh, herbaceous finish. Substitutes like cilantro or basil can work but alter the flavor profile.
Extras:
- 1/4 cup white wine (optional) – Deglazes the pan and adds depth to the sauce. Chicken broth works as a substitute.
- Extra lemon wedges – For serving and squeezing over the shrimp for an extra burst of flavor.
Pro tip: If using frozen shrimp, thaw them in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes and pat dry thoroughly to avoid dilution of flavors.
How to Make the Best Garlic Shrimp Recipe Details
– Prepare the shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving the tails on for presentation if desired. Pat them dry with a paper towel—this helps the garlic and butter stick better and guarantees a nice sear.
*Pro Tip*: Use frozen shrimp? Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes before prepping.
– Mince the garlic: Finely mince fresh garlic cloves—this secures even flavor distribution and prevents overpowering bites.
*Watch-Out*: Don’t use pre-minced garlic from a jar; fresh garlic provides the best flavor for this dish.
– Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter. Let it heat until shimmering but not smoking.
*Why this matters: Properly heated oil** prevents the shrimp from sticking and helps them cook quickly without becoming rubbery.
– Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
*Visual Cue**: Success looks like shrimp that curl slightly and have a golden edge.
– Add garlic and seasoning: Toss in the minced garlic, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. Stir constantly for 30 seconds to avoid burning the garlic.
*Pro Tip**: Adding garlic late in the process prevents it from becoming bitter and maintains a fragrant, fresh taste.
– Finish with butter: Turn off the heat and stir in a tablespoon of cold butter for richness and a glossy finish.
*Flexibility**: Substitute olive oil or coconut oil if you prefer a dairy-free option.
– Serve immediately: Plate the shrimp with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
*Time-Saving Trick**: Pair with pre-cooked rice or pasta for a quick, complete meal.
Nutrition
Garlic shrimp is a flavorful dish that combines shrimp with garlic, butter, and seasonings. It is a good source of protein and essential nutrients.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Sodium | 400 mg |
| Cholesterol | 200 mg |
Chef Tips
When preparing garlic shrimp, I always recommend using fresh garlic for the best flavor—it’s worth the extra effort. Mince it finely to avoid overpowering bites.
Cook shrimp just until pink; overcooking makes them rubbery. Use high heat for a quick sear, and don’t crowd the pan.
Finish with a squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley. These small touches elevate the dish from good to unforgettable.
