This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish with tender shrimp cooked in a buttery garlic sauce. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
I always laugh when I get garlic on my fingertips—it’s totally worth it for how good this tastes! I like to add a squeeze of lemon to brighten it up.
For an easy meal, serve the shrimp over rice or pasta. It’s simple, filling, and makes the kitchen smell amazing!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic adds a bright, punchy flavor. I recommend mincing it finely to prevent burning. If fresh isn’t available, garlic powder works in a pinch—use half as much to avoid overpowering the dish.
Butter: Rich and creamy, butter gives the sauce a silky texture. I love using unsalted butter so I can control the salt. For a dairy-free option, try olive oil for a lighter version, though it’ll change the richness.
Shrimp: Juicy and tender, peeled and deveined shrimp are best here. I thaw frozen shrimp in cold water to speed things up. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops work nicely as a substitute, keeping the dish seafood-centric.
Lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances the richness. A squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving is best. Lime juice can be a good substitute for a slightly different but refreshing flavor.
How do I sauté shrimp without overcooking it?
Sauté shrimp quickly over medium-high heat. Pat them dry to get a nice sear. Add shrimp in a single layer, don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque—shrimp cook fast!
- Ensure the pan is hot before adding shrimp for a good sear.
- Avoid stirring too frequently; let them develop a crust.
- Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink to prevent tough, rubbery shrimp.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Garlic Butter
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped parsley
- Fresh lemon wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total time: 20 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
2. Make Garlic Butter
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Stir occasionally.
4. Finish and Serve
Remove from heat. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
