Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a simple dish with tender shrimp cooked in melted butter and lots of garlic. It’s quick, tasty, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a fun family meal.
I enjoy making this because it fills the kitchen with that wonderful garlic smell. I sometimes sneak in a little lemon juice for a fresh twist!
For extra flavor, I like to serve it over rice or pasta. It’s a quick way to get a delicious meal on the table with just a few ingredients.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: I recommend fresh garlic for the best flavor, but jars of pre-minced garlic work in a pinch. Use about 3-4 cloves for a nice garlic punch. If you’re not a garlic fan, a touch of garlic powder can be a quick swap, though fresh is better.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives a rich, creamy base. I like to use good quality butter, but margarine or olive oil can be alternatives if needed. Start with about 3 tablespoons—more for extra richness or if you prefer a saucier dish.
Shrimp: Use peeled, deveined shrimp, preferably jumbo or large-sized. Fresh or frozen works well; just thaw and pat dry thoroughly. If shrimp isn’t available, scallops or firm fish like tilapia can be a tasty substitute.
How do I sear shrimp without it drying out?
Searing shrimp well is key to juicy, flavorful results. First, pat shrimp dry to get a nice sear. Heat your skillet over medium-high and add butter. Place shrimp in a single layer, don’t overcrowd, and don’t move them too soon—wait until edges turn pink before flipping.
- Wait 1-2 minutes until the shrimp starts to turn opaque around the edges.
- Use tongs or a spatula to flip them gently.
- Cook for another 1-2 minutes until fully pink and opaque.
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 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Extras
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparation: 10 minutes | Cooking: 8 minutes | Total: 18 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, and paprika. Set aside.
2. Melt the Butter
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque.
4. Finish and Serve
Stir in chili flakes and parsley. Squeeze lemon juice over the top if desired. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
