You don’t need to be a chef or own a dozen gadgets to whip up amazing garlic butter shrimp at home. If you’ve got a skillet, shrimp, and a dream, you’re halfway there—and honestly, the skillet doesn’t even have to be spotless.
This recipe is fast, easy, and fills your kitchen with that “just walked past a fancy restaurant” aroma.
Garlic, butter, and shrimp—honestly, there’s nothing quite like it. This dish comes together in minutes, perfect for those nights when you want something good but can’t be bothered to fuss.
Hungry? Let’s see how you can dazzle your taste buds (and maybe your family) with almost zero effort.
Contents
- 1 Equipment
- 2 Ingredients
- 3 Instructions
- 4 What You Need To Know
- 5 Frequently Asked Questions
- 5.1 What’s the secret to making shrimp so garlicky, it could ward off vampires?
- 5.2 How can I create a shrimp dish that’ll swim in buttery goodness without drowning in calories?
- 5.3 If I forget the lemon, will my shrimp still taste like a zesty seaside soiree?
- 5.4 Can I trick my kids into eating seafood by disguising it in a creamy garlic butter sauce?
- 5.5 What’s the easiest way to turn my kitchen into a mini coastal Italian eatery with just shrimp and garlic?
- 5.6 Do shrimp have a spa day when they take a dip in garlic butter, or do they miss the lemon zest?
- 6 Author
Equipment
No fancy gadgets here. You just need a few basics—shrimp hat optional, but highly encouraged if you’re into that.
- Large skillet: The bigger, the better. Shrimp don’t like to be crowded.
- Spatula or tongs: For flipping shrimp with flair. Channel your inner chef—yelling not included.
- Knife and cutting board: Because, sadly, garlic doesn’t chop itself.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For when you want to avoid a garlic avalanche.
| Equipment Item | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large skillet | Cooking shrimp evenly (no crowding, no stress) |
| Tongs/Spatula | Turning and rescuing shrimp from burning |
| Knife/Cutting board | Slicing garlic and prepping ingredients |
| Measuring tools | Avoiding a “garlic with some shrimp” situation |
Missing tongs? They’re probably hiding out with your lost socks. That’s just how kitchens work.
Feeling bold? Throw on an apron. Sure, it’s practical, but it also makes you feel like the boss—even if the butter tries to escape.
Ingredients
Want to impress your friends or just yourself? You don’t need a mile-long shopping list. These are the kinds of things you can actually pronounce and probably already have at home.
Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Raw shrimp (peeled & deveined) | 1 pound |
| Butter | 1/4 cup (half a stick) |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Garlic (minced) | 3–4 cloves |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice | 1 tablespoon |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | 1 tablespoon, chopped |
No need for a fishing trip—just grab some shrimp from the store. Frozen works, just thaw first.
The rest? Probably lurking in your kitchen somewhere. If garlic’s missing, check behind the ancient milk.
Got it all? Good. Let’s get to the fun part.
Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large skillet and melting the butter over medium heat. If it sizzles, you’re doing it right—just keep an eye on it, butter can get a little rowdy.
- Add the garlic and let it sizzle for about a minute. Don’t wander off unless you like your garlic extra crispy.
- Toss in the shrimp in a single layer. Cook until they’re pink and opaque, flipping halfway. Shrimp don’t take long—blink and they’re done.
- Squeeze in the lemon juice and sprinkle over the parsley. Give everything a gentle toss so the shrimp get coated in all that buttery goodness.
- Season with salt and pepper. Take a second to admire your handiwork. Feels good, doesn’t it?
- Serve with fresh bread, rice, or pasta if you’re feeling a little fancy. Don’t let that sauce go to waste—your taste buds will thank you.
What You Need To Know
If you can handle microwave popcorn, you’re more than qualified to make garlic butter shrimp. It’s honestly that easy.
You just need a handful of basic things and a pan that’s up for a little excitement. The whole thing comes together in minutes—no marathon cooking session required.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it again next week. Or, you know, tomorrow.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll pick up tricks for boosting garlic flavor, lightening up the butter, and keeping shrimp tasty even if you’re out of lemon. There are a few ideas for getting kids on board, bringing home some Italian vibes, and figuring out just how much lemon your shrimp really want in their lives.
What’s the secret to making shrimp so garlicky, it could ward off vampires?
Use plenty of fresh garlic—seriously, go wild. Mince it super fine so the flavor goes everywhere. Sauté it in butter for just a minute before adding the shrimp. Want more? Sprinkle a pinch of garlic powder too.
How can I create a shrimp dish that’ll swim in buttery goodness without drowning in calories?
Swap half the butter for olive oil if you want to lighten things up. Or use a little less butter and add a splash of chicken broth for extra sauce with less guilt. You’ll still get that saucy finish. If you want more ideas, check out this easy garlic butter shrimp recipe.
If I forget the lemon, will my shrimp still taste like a zesty seaside soiree?
No big deal—your shrimp will still taste great. Lemon brightens things up, but it’s not a dealbreaker. Try a splash of vinegar or a handful of fresh herbs for a bit of zip. Tomato slices work in a pinch too.
Can I trick my kids into eating seafood by disguising it in a creamy garlic butter sauce?
Cream and cheese can be your secret weapons. Toss your shrimp and garlic butter with a little heavy cream or cream cheese. Serve over pasta so it blends in—kids love “magic noodles.”
What’s the easiest way to turn my kitchen into a mini coastal Italian eatery with just shrimp and garlic?
Sauté shrimp and garlic in butter, add a sprinkle of Italian herbs, and toss over pasta or toasted bread. Chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil takes it up a notch. Throw on some Italian music and you’re basically there—minus the sea breeze.
Do shrimp have a spa day when they take a dip in garlic butter, or do they miss the lemon zest?
Shrimp look downright content lounging in that cozy, garlicky butter bath. Lemon zest? That’s more of a luxury—fun to try, but not something they’d demand.
If you’re in the mood to dress things up, a sprinkle of zest at the end adds a little spark. Totally up to you, really.
