Go Back
A serving of easy garlic butter shrimp in a skillet, ready to eat

Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

A quick and delicious recipe for succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and parsley. Perfect for a weeknight meal or an appetizer.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings 2 people
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Paper towels

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4-6 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • 1/2 lemon for fresh juice
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste
  • red pepper flakes optional

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them very dry with paper towels.
  • Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper.

Cooking

  • Melt the unsalted butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add the minced garlic to the melted, slightly foamy butter and sauté for 30-60 seconds until fragrant. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
  • Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, stirring occasionally, until they turn pink and opaque.
  • Remove the skillet from heat, squeeze in fresh lemon juice, and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley. Gently toss to coat the shrimp.

Serving

  • Transfer the shrimp and sauce to serving plates and enjoy immediately.

Notes

Serve this garlic butter shrimp with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or alongside pasta, rice, or a simple green salad.