15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Quick & Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

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There’s something special about a dish that makes a busy weeknight feel like a treat. I recall the first time I made a quick shrimp recipe. It was a cold evening, and I wanted a comforting meal fast. That’s when I found the 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp.

This easy dinner idea not only tasted amazing but also brought me joy. With just a few ingredients, I could make a garlic shrimp dish that felt like a gourmet meal at home. If you’re looking for a fast and flavorful dish, this buttery, garlic shrimp is perfect!

Table of Contents

Introduction to Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a classic dish that combines garlic, butter, and shrimp. It’s quick to make, ready in under 15 minutes. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights. The mix of flavors is a hit with many.

This dish is a favorite for quick seafood meals. It’s easy to make and tastes like a restaurant dish. It’s great as a main course or appetizer.

To make it, you need butter, garlic, lemon juice, and parsley. It’s simple and fast. Try this easy garlic shrimp dish to impress others without spending too much time cooking.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This simple shrimp recipe is a hit because it’s quick and full of flavor. It’s great for any night of the week or a special event. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare and cook, making it easy to enjoy a tasty meal fast.

The garlic butter sauce makes the shrimp taste even better, adding a rich flavor. It’s perfect with many sides. Adding fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes gives it a zesty twist.

This recipe has been shared over 10,000 times online. It’s clear many people love it. Each serving is packed with nutrients and flavor, with about 277 calories. It’s a mix of garlic, butter, and shrimp that’s hard to resist.

Ingredients for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Preparing garlic butter shrimp requires the right ingredients. This recipe combines flavors quickly, perfect for a busy weeknight. It’s a delicious choice for any meal.

Essential Ingredients

The main ingredients for garlic butter shrimp include:

  • Olive oil – 3 tablespoons
  • Garlic – 5 cloves, minced
  • Fresh shrimp – 1 pound, preferably peeled and deveined for easier fresh shrimp preparation
  • Unsalted butter – 4 tablespoons
  • Fresh lemon juice – 3 tablespoons
  • Kosher salt – 1/2 teaspoon
  • Freshly ground black pepper – about 6 cranks
  • Chopped fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons for garnish

This mix of ingredients creates a flavorful base. It complements the shrimp and fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma.

Optional Additions for Flavor

Want to add more flavor? Try these optional ingredients:

  • Red pepper flakes – 1/4 teaspoon for a slight kick
  • White wine or caper brine for added complexity
  • Paprika – 1/2 teaspoon for an extra layer of flavor
  • Lemon zest, grated over the top before serving for a burst of citrus

These ingredients let you customize the dish to your taste. For a detailed guide, check out this recipe.

Simple Steps to Prepare Garlic Butter Shrimp

Making Garlic Butter Shrimp is quick and great for busy nights. It’s perfect for when you don’t have a lot of time. The prep is fast, so I can enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours cooking.

I can finish the whole recipe in 15 minutes. This includes 5 minutes for cooking and 10 minutes for getting everything ready. Having all the ingredients ready makes cooking much easier. This way, I can serve this delicious dish without any trouble.

Prep Time and Cooking Time

Here’s a quick overview to make things easy:

TaskTime Required
Preparation Time10 minutes
Cooking Time5 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Servings per Recipe4 servings

With these simple steps and a tidy kitchen, I can enjoy a fulfilling meal. This dish is one of my favorites for easy dinners.

How to Cook 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

Cooking garlic shrimp quickly is key to a great dish. Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add about 5 minced cloves of garlic and ¼ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until the garlic smells amazing.

Then, add 1 pound of peeled and deveined large shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque. This quick cooking keeps the shrimp tender and juicy, soaking up the garlic flavors.

To complete the dish, add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the juice from half a lemon. As the butter melts, the sauce thickens. Stir gently for 2 minutes. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt for extra flavor. It’s perfect with crusty French baguette or salad.

Finish by garnishing with ¼ cup of chopped fresh parsley. This dish is not only delicious but also looks great. For a detailed recipe, check the full guide here.

Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp

Choosing the right shrimp is key to making my Garlic Butter Shrimp great. Fresh shrimp give a richer taste, but frozen ones are a good alternative. It’s important to thaw frozen shrimp well to keep them tender and juicy.

Using Fresh vs. Frozen Shrimp

I often choose between fresh and frozen shrimp. Fresh ones have the best flavor and texture. But frozen shrimp are easy to use and don’t need immediate prep.

To thaw frozen shrimp, I put them in a sealed bag and soak them in cold water. This method works well and keeps the shrimp’s texture.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

My cooking methods focus on getting the shrimp just right. They should be opaque and firm but not tough. I cook them at medium-high heat to get a nice sear and even cooking.

Using tongs helps me flip the shrimp easily. This way, I can cook them perfectly without breaking them.

shrimp selection

Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Shrimp

Garlic butter shrimp is a great dish for many meal experiences. You can go for a classic look or try something new. Here are some ideas to make your meal better.

What to Pair with Shrimp

Choosing the right sides can make your meal better. Here are some tasty options:

  • Steamed asparagus with lemon
  • Garlic noodles or spaghetti with olive oil and garlic
  • Light quinoa salad with fresh herbs
  • Roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini
  • Citrusy coleslaw for a refreshing crunch

These pairings with garlic shrimp offer great flavors and textures. They make every bite a pleasure.

Creative Serving Ideas

Want to impress? Try these creative ways to serve garlic butter shrimp:

  • Serve over zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
  • Put shrimp in warm tortillas for a tasty taco.
  • Top creamy risotto with shrimp for a rich dish.
  • Use crusty baguette or toasted garlic bread to enjoy the garlic butter sauce.

These ideas show how versatile garlic butter shrimp is. They’re perfect for any event.

Health Benefits of Shrimp

Shrimp is a nutritious choice that supports a balanced diet. A 3-ounce serving of cooked shrimp has only 84 calories. It’s a great choice for any meal.

Shrimp is high in protein, with about 20 grams per serving. This helps with muscle growth and repair. It also has essential vitamins and minerals like vitamin B12, iodine, selenium, and zinc.

These nutrients are good for brain health, thyroid function, and the immune system. Shrimp has no carbs, fat, or saturated fat. It’s a lean protein source. A serving also has about 220 milligrams of potassium, which is good for the heart.

Shrimp is not only good for the heart but also helps lower cholesterol levels. Studies show that eating shrimp regularly can lower the risk of heart disease. It raises HDL (good cholesterol) and lowers LDL (bad cholesterol).

Shrimp contains omega-3 fatty acids and the antioxidant astaxanthin. Astaxanthin fights oxidative stress and supports eye health. It helps protect against retinal diseases and cataracts. Shrimp is flash frozen to preserve its flavor, texture, and nutritional benefits.

For more information on the health benefits of seafood, check out this comprehensive guide. Adding shrimp to your meals can boost your nutrient intake and make your meals more enjoyable.

nutritional benefits of shrimp

NutrientAmount per 3 ozDaily Value %
Calories84 
Protein20 g34.2%
Carbohydrates0 g 
Total Fat0 g 
Cholesterol161 mg 
Sodium94 mg 
Potassium224 mg4.77%
Zinc1.4 mg10.36%
Iron0.4 mg2.46%

More Quick and Easy Seafood Recipes

Exploring quick seafood recipes can really change your cooking. I love finding meals that are easy but pack a punch of flavor. Garlic-infused dishes add a special aroma and taste to any seafood meal. Here are some quick and tasty options for you to try.

Garlic shrimp tacos are a flavorful twist on tacos. They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a casual get-together. Just sauté shrimp with garlic, spices, and fresh toppings for a meal ready in under 20 minutes.

Lemon pepper shrimp pasta is another favorite. It combines garlic with zesty lemon for a light, flavorful dinner. Toss cooked pasta with sautéed shrimp and garlic-infused sauce for a tasty main course.

Garlic butter scallops are great for a rich, indulgent meal. These scallops cook fast, showing off their natural sweetness. The buttery garlic sauce is ready in less than 15 minutes. They add elegance to any dinner.

For more tasty ideas, check out quick seafood recipes. They’ll make your cooking skills shine. With so many options, you can easily impress your friends and family with garlic-infused dishes.

Cooking Tools You Might Need

Creating the perfect garlic butter shrimp dish is easier with the right tools. Having the best cooking tools for seafood makes it simpler to get great results. Here are the kitchen essentials for cooking shrimp that I recommend.

Must-Have Kitchen Tools

  • Large Skillet: A good quality skillet is essential for sautéing shrimp evenly. Look for one that distributes heat well.
  • Kitchen Tongs: These make flipping shrimp simple, allowing you to handle delicate seafood without breaking it.
  • Garlic Press: Mincing garlic can be tedious, but a garlic press speeds up the process and provides a consistent texture.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: Precision is key in cooking, so measuring tools help ensure the right balance of ingredients.
  • Wooden Spoon: Ideal for stirring and combining ingredients, a sturdy wooden spoon can handle high heat without scratching non-stick surfaces.

Investing in these kitchen essentials for cooking shrimp will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the right cooking tools for seafood preparation can elevate your culinary skills and help you create unforgettable meals with ease.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a hit for its simple yet rich flavors. It only needs butter, garlic, and fresh shrimp. It’s a quick dinner that’s full of taste.

The cooking method is easy, taking just 15 minutes. Shrimp become perfectly seared in 4-6 minutes. Adding pasta makes it a great meal for any time.

Using fresh ingredients makes a big difference. Adding white wine gives it an extra kick. I highly recommend trying this recipe.

It’s fun to see how flavors mix in your kitchen. Try different versions and share your ideas. For a side, roasted vegetables are a great choice.

Check out roasted vegetables to go with your shrimp.

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