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Plump shrimp delicately cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, ready to serve.

Classic Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

This classic shrimp dish features succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It's quick to prepare and perfect as an appetizer or main course.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 4 people
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4-5 garlic, minced cloves
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth optional
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes optional, for a touch of heat

Instructions
 

Cooking Steps

  • Pat the peeled and deveined shrimp dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper.
  • Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink; remove and set aside.
  • Reduce heat to medium, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and sauté minced garlic and red pepper flakes for 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
  • Optionally, pour in white wine or chicken broth and simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up browned bits.
  • Stir in fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley, then season the sauce with salt and pepper.
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the garlic butter sauce; serve immediately.

Notes

Ensure shrimp are patted dry for a better sear. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become tough quickly.