Introduction

Garlic Butter Shrimp is one of the easiest and most satisfying seafood recipes you can prepare at home. Made with juicy shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and finished with fresh lemon juice and herbs, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in less than 20 minutes.

Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting guests, this recipe is a dependable choice. The combination of butter, garlic, and fresh parsley creates a savory sauce that pairs perfectly with shrimp while remaining simple enough for everyday cooking.

Shrimp cooks quickly, making this recipe ideal for busy schedules. Serve it over pasta, steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or alongside crusty bread to soak up every drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.

This homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp is packed with flavor, requires only a handful of ingredients, and is sure to become one of your favorite seafood recipes.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 2 pounds (900 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 6 garlic cloves, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tablespoon chopped chives (optional)

Optional Serving Suggestions

• Cooked pasta
• Steamed white rice
• Garlic bread
• Mashed potatoes
• Roasted vegetables
• Fresh salad
• Lemon wedges
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, paprika, and onion powder. Toss until evenly coated.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Arrange the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for about 1–2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery.

Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining butter to the skillet. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30–60 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.

Step 5: Add Lemon Flavor

Pour in the fresh lemon juice and stir in the lemon zest. If you enjoy a little heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently in the garlic butter sauce until every shrimp is coated.

Step 7: Finish with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley and chives over the shrimp. Stir gently and cook for another minute.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the Garlic Butter Shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Serve immediately with warm pasta, steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to enjoy the rich garlic butter sauce.

Recipe Tips

• Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture.
• Do not overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes.
• Fresh garlic provides the richest flavor.
• Add spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.
• Finish with freshly squeezed lemon juice just before serving for the brightest flavor.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: American / Seafood
Difficulty: Easy