Introduction
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, flavorful seafood dish that combines juicy shrimp with a rich buttery sauce, zesty lemon, and aromatic garlic. Ready in under 20 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners. Serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce!
Ingredients
Serves: 4
1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
3 tbsp unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tbsp)
1 tbsp lemon zest
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine (optional for extra flavor)
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp:
Pat shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Cook the Shrimp:
Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, lemon juice, zest, and chicken broth (or wine). Stir and simmer for 1–2 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combine:
Return shrimp to the pan and toss to coat with the sauce. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Serve:
Serve hot over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread. Garnish with extra lemon wedges if desired.
Description
This dish delivers the perfect balance of buttery richness, zesty lemon brightness, and savory garlic depth. The shrimp cook quickly, staying juicy and tender, while the sauce clings beautifully to each piece — a restaurant-quality meal made right at home.
Tips
Don’t overcook the shrimp! They’re done when they turn pink and opaque — usually 2–3 minutes per side.
Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor. Bottled juice can taste flat.
Add white wine for a more gourmet touch — it enhances the sauce’s depth.
Pat shrimp dry before cooking to help them sear instead of steam.
Make it creamy: Stir in 2 tablespoons of heavy cream at the end for a luxurious twist.
Variations
Spicy Cajun Shrimp: Add 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a Southern kick.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: Toss cooked shrimp and sauce with spaghetti or linguine.
Asian-Inspired: Add a splash of soy sauce and honey for a sweet-savory glaze.
Vegetable Add-ins: Include spinach, asparagus, or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrients.
Correction
If your sauce tastes too sour — add a bit more butter or a pinch of sugar.
If it’s too salty — squeeze in extra lemon juice or add a splash of broth.
If shrimp are rubbery — next time, cook them for a shorter time at a slightly lower heat.
Enjoy
Serve immediately and enjoy your Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with a refreshing drink or a side of garlic bread.
Every bite bursts with flavor — buttery, garlicky, and lemony perfection! 🍋🧈🦐