Crave-Worthy Garlic Butter Shrimp in Just 15 Minutes!

This quick and easy garlic butter shrimp recipe is exactly what you need for a delicious weeknight dinner. In just 15 minutes, you can have a plate of tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s perfectly balanced with lemon and fresh herbs. Whether you’re cooking for one or preparing a meal for the whole family, this dish is sure to impress!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

Prepare the Shrimp:
Begin by rinsing the shrimp under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. Drying the shrimp is key to getting a nice sear. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. This simple step will enhance the natural flavor of the shrimp.

Sauté the Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and starts to bubble, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until fragrant and golden. Be cautious not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter. The garlic butter will fill your kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes on one side, or until they start to turn pink. Flip the shrimp over and cook for another 2-3 minutes on the other side, until the shrimp are fully cooked through and opaque. This quick cooking time ensures the shrimp stay juicy and tender.

Add Red Pepper Flakes (Optional):
For those who like a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the shrimp and stir to combine. Allow the spices to mingle with the garlic butter for an additional 30 seconds. This step is optional, but it will definitely elevate the flavor if you enjoy a little spice.

Finish with Lemon Juice:
Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp. The acidity from the lemon brightens up the rich butter and garlic sauce, balancing the flavors beautifully. Toss the shrimp in the sauce to ensure they’re well-coated and packed with flavor.

Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and transfer the shrimp to a serving dish. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges on the side for those who like an extra squeeze of lemon with each bite.

Tips:

• Pair It With: Garlic butter shrimp pairs perfectly with a side of pasta, steamed vegetables, or a light salad. You could even serve it over a bed of rice or couscous for a complete meal.
• Add Some Veggies: For a more balanced dish, toss in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Make It Lighter: If you want a lighter version of this dish, swap the butter for olive oil or use a reduced-fat butter substitute.

Why You’ll Love This Dish:

Not only is this garlic butter shrimp quick to make, but it’s also bursting with flavor. The richness of the butter complements the savory garlic, and the bright lemon cuts through the richness, adding the perfect balance. The shrimp are cooked to perfection — juicy on the inside with just the right amount of golden crispness on the outside. It’s the ultimate go-to recipe when you want something delicious but don’t have a lot of time.