Of course! Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quintessential quick and elegant dish. It’s bursting with bright, savory flavor and comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a fancy-looking dinner party.
Here is a classic, foolproof recipe.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 2-3
Ingredients
· 1 lb large raw shrimp (16/20 or 21/25 count), peeled and deveined
· 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
· 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
· ¼ cup dry white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio) or chicken broth
· 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
· 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional, but highly recommended)
· 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
· Seasoning for Shrimp:
· ½ teaspoon paprika (smoked or sweet)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Instructions
- Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a good sear instead of steaming them. Toss them with the paprika, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using).
- Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot and foaming, add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Do not overcook! Remove the shrimp immediately to a plate and set aside.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine (or broth) and lemon juice. Use a whisk or wooden spoon to scrape up all the browned bits from the bottom of the pan (this is where the flavor is!). Let the liquid simmer for 2-3 minutes until it reduces by about half.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the lemon zest. Return the cooked shrimp and any accumulated juices back to the skillet. Toss to coat the shrimp in the sauce and heat through for about 30 seconds.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in the fresh parsley, and serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
· Over Pasta: Toss with cooked linguine or angel hair pasta for a classic Shrimp Scampi.
· With Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm, crusty baguette to soak up every last drop of the incredible lemon garlic butter sauce.
· Over Rice or Grains: Spoon it over a bed of white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
· With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or a simple green salad.
Tips for Success & Variations
· The #1 Rule: Don’t Overcook the Shrimp! Shrimp cook very quickly. They are done as soon as they turn from gray and translucent to pink and opaque, forming a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp become tough and rubbery.
· Use Raw Shrimp: For the best texture and to avoid a fishy taste, always start with raw, frozen shrimp that you’ve thawed yourself. Pre-cooked shrimp will become tough when reheated.
· Dry Your Shrimp: We can’t stress this enough. Wet shrimp will steam instead of sear.
· Wine Substitute: If you don’t cook with wine, chicken broth is a perfect substitute. You can also use vegetable broth or even just a little extra lemon juice and water.
· Creamy Version: For a richer, creamy sauce, stir in 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or half-and-half after the sauce has reduced.
· Herb Variations: Swap the parsley for other fresh herbs like chopped basil, dill, or chives.
Why This Recipe is a Winner
· Incredibly Fast: It’s a true 15-minute meal from start to finish.
· Restaurant-Quality at Home: The flavors are bright, rich, and sophisticated.
· Versatile: It can be the star of the plate or a component of a larger meal.
· Impressive yet Simple: It’s a perfect dish to make when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Enjoy your delicious, quick, and elegant Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp