Garlic Butter Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. The irresistible flavors of garlic and butter envelop the tender shrimp, creating a dish that is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with umami goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this garlic butter shrimp recipe for its incredible flavor and ease of cooking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it came straight from a fancy restaurant. The garlic butter sauce is rich and savory, enhancing the natural sweetness of the shrimp. Plus, this recipe fits perfectly into a low-carb or gluten-free lifestyle, making it a versatile option for a variety of dietary preferences.
Tips and Tricks
To make your garlic butter shrimp even better, consider these tips:
1. Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture. If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Don’t rush the cooking process; sauté the garlic slowly to release its flavor without burning.
3. For an extra kick, add some red pepper flakes or a splash of lemon juice.
4. If you want to save time, you can prep your garlic in advance by mincing it and storing it in the refrigerator.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes when cooking garlic butter shrimp:
1. Overcooking the shrimp will make them tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they’re opaque and pink.
2. Using too much heat can burn the garlic quickly. Always cook over medium heat to ensure the garlic cooks evenly.
3. Forgetting to season the shrimp before cooking can result in bland flavors. A sprinkle of salt and pepper is essential.
Make Ahead Tips
For busy cooks and meal preppers, you can make garlic butter shrimp a breeze by prepping in advance. You can peel and devein the shrimp a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance, which will keep well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just reheat gently before adding to the shrimp during cooking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! You can swap out shrimp for other seafood like scallops or even chicken if you prefer. Experiment with herbs and spices; fresh parsley or cilantro can add a lovely touch. If you want a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.
How to Serve
To beautifully serve garlic butter shrimp, plate it alongside a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. Garnish with finely chopped parsley and a wedge of lemon for a pop of color. Serve it in a shallow bowl to allow the sauce to pool at the bottom, creating an elegant presentation.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair your garlic butter shrimp with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing cocktail like a mojito. For side dishes, consider a light salad with a citrus vinaigrette, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables to complement the richness of the shrimp.
How to Store
To store leftovers, place the garlic butter shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days. If you want to freeze it, transfer it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently in a skillet over low heat.
Equipment Needed
You’ll need a large skillet or frying pan for this recipe. A good-quality non-stick skillet works best to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you don’t have a skillet, you can also use a wok for a similar effect.
Dietary Adaptations
To make this dish vegan, substitute shrimp with plant-based shrimp alternatives or tofu. Use vegan butter in place of regular butter. For a dairy-free option, you can replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and for nut-free, ensure your butter substitute is also nut-free.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the spring and summer, you can add fresh vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to the dish for a pop of color and nutrition. In the fall or winter, consider incorporating roasted tomatoes or bell peppers for a heartier meal.
Cost Breakdown
The estimated cost of making garlic butter shrimp is around $15 for four servings, which breaks down to about $3.75 per serving. To save money, look for sales on shrimp or consider using smaller shrimp, which can be more budget-friendly.
Kitchen Hacks
Here’s a quick kitchen hack: to peel garlic quickly, smash the cloves with the side of your knife; the skins will come off easily. Also, to prevent your hands from smelling like garlic, rub them with lemon juice or stainless steel after handling.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
What should I do if the garlic burns?
If your garlic burns, it’s best to start over, as it can impart a bitter taste to the dish.
How long does it take to cook the shrimp?
Shrimp typically cooks in about 3-5 minutes depending on their size.
Garlic Butter Shrimp
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a mouthwatering dish that combines succulent shrimp with rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce. The irresistible flavors of garlic and butter envelop the tender shrimp, creating a dish that is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with umami goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
- Start by preparing your shrimp. Make sure they are peeled, deveined, and patted dry with paper towels.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning them with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the skillet from heat and add in the lemon juice and chopped parsley, stirring to combine.
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 244Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 8gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 5gCholesterol 270mgSodium 1606mgCarbohydrates 3gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 26g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter shrimp is a delightful dish that’s simple yet sophisticated, perfect for any occasion. With its rich flavors and ease of preparation, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations with loved ones!
