Garlic Butter Shrimp is the ultimate quick dinner, juicy shrimp cooked in a rich blend of butter, olive oil, and fragrant garlic, finished with fresh lemon juice for brightness. It’s light yet indulgent, incredibly fast to make, and perfect for busy weeknights when you want something impressive without the effort.
With just a handful of ingredients and one skillet, this recipe delivers restaurant-style flavor at home in under 20 minutes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Fast – Ready in about 15 minutes
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup
- Big Flavor – Garlic, butter, and lemon never fail
- Light but Satisfying – Perfect balance of richness and freshness
- Versatile – Serve with pasta, rice, or veggies
- Weeknight Hero – Ideal for last-minute dinners
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8–10 minutes
- Total Time: About 15 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Heat the Pan
Heat olive oil and butter together in a large skillet over medium heat until melted and sizzling. - Cook the Shrimp
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Avoid overcrowding. - Add Garlic & Seasoning
Add minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Sauté briefly (about 30 seconds) until fragrant, do not brown the garlic. - Finish with Lemon
Squeeze in fresh lemon juice and toss gently to coat the shrimp. - Garnish & Serve
Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley if using, and serve hot.
How to Serve
- Classic: With rice or mashed potatoes
- Pasta Night: Toss with spaghetti or linguine
- Low-Carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or alongside steamed veggies
- Appetizer: Serve with crusty bread for dipping
Helpful Tips
- Pat shrimp dry for better searing
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor
- Don’t overcook ,shrimp turn rubbery fast
- Add lemon at the end to keep it bright
- Finish with extra butter for a glossy sauce
Variations
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp: Add chili flakes or cayenne
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream at the end
- Herb Boost: Add thyme or basil
- Asian Twist: Add a splash of soy sauce
- Garlic Butter Lemon Shrimp: Extra lemon zest for zing
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Up to 2 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Not recommended (shrimp texture changes)
- Reheat: Gently in a skillet over low heat
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
What size shrimp works best?
Medium to large shrimp are ideal.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, high in protein and naturally low-carb.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Shrimp is proof that a quick dinner can still be incredibly delicious. With juicy shrimp, rich butter, and bold garlic flavor, this recipe is perfect for busy nights, casual entertaining, or anytime you want a fast meal that feels special.
