Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Spring Dinner Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Cooked rice or pasta, for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Home Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp for dinner during the spring. The fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors make this dish a standout. Using juicy shrimp paired with a rich garlic butter sauce, every bite is incredibly satisfying. I like to serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside crisp vegetables to complete the meal. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Trust me, it's a dish you'll want to share!

Created by

Sophie Adams

Last updated on 2026-02-28T01:13:35.630Z

Cooking Garlic Butter Shrimp has become a special tradition in my kitchen. On a recent sunny afternoon, I decided to test out a new twist by adding fresh herbs from my garden. The result was an explosion of flavor that turned an already delightful dish into something truly unforgettable. I learned that using high-quality butter and fresh garlic is key to enriching the sauce.

What I find uniquely enjoyable about preparing this meal is how quickly it all comes together, allowing me to spend more time enjoying the food rather than cooking for hours. Pairing it with a light salad elevates the whole dining experience. It's the perfect culinary connection to the energetic feel of spring!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Succulent shrimp enveloped in a creamy garlic butter sauce
Fresh herbs add a delightful burst of flavor
Quick and easy for busy weeknights or special occasions

Choosing the Right Shrimp

When making Garlic Butter Shrimp, it's essential to choose high-quality shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Opt for large, fresh shrimp that are firm to the touch and have a mild ocean scent. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re thawed completely before cooking; you can do this by running them under cold water for about 10 minutes. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb all those delicious garlic and butter flavors.

The size of the shrimp plays a significant role in cooking time and overall presentation. Large shrimp usually mean fewer pieces per pound, which creates a more elegant dish. If you can only find smaller shrimp, reduce the cooking time to 1-2 minutes per side to avoid overcooking, as shrimp can easily turn rubbery.

Garlic Butter Sauce Secrets

The garlic butter sauce is the heart of this dish, and using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning better. To achieve that creamy texture, make sure to melt the butter over medium heat—too high of a temperature can cause it to burn before the garlic has a chance to sauté. You’ll know it’s ready for the garlic when it’s bubbling gently and emits a sweet, nutty aroma.

Adding fresh parsley at the end brightens the dish and complements the rich butter sauce with its herbal notes. If you're looking for variations, consider incorporating a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat or adding a splash of white wine during the cooking process for an extra layer of flavor. Just be sure to let it reduce slightly before adding the shrimp.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp dinner:

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooked rice or pasta, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Follow these quick steps to prepare your Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp are pink and opaque.

Finishing Touches

Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley and lemon juice. Toss to combine and ensure shrimp are evenly coated.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve immediately over rice or pasta, garnished with extra parsley if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic when sautéing for a spicy twist.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you’d like to prepare this dish in advance, you can clean and marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours before cooking. A quick soak in a mixture of lemon juice, garlic, and a pinch of salt will enhance their flavor. Store the shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you're ready to cook to keep them fresh and safe.

For making large batches, you can double or triple the ingredients without any issues. However, be mindful not to overcrowd the skillet while cooking; this will steam the shrimp instead of searing them. Instead, cook in batches if necessary, which will ensure that every piece gets that perfect golden color.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with fluffy white rice, but you can also serve it alongside a variety of options like zucchini noodles or a fresh garden salad. For a more filling meal, consider tossing the shrimp with your favorite pasta. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top can add a savory depth that complements the garlic flavors beautifully.

Don’t forget about garnishes! A squeeze of fresh lemon over the finished dish brightens the flavors and enhances the presentation. Consider adding sliced avocado or a side of grilled asparagus for an appealing and nutritious balance to your meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for best results.

→ What can I substitute for butter?

You can use olive oil or a vegan butter alternative if you prefer.

→ Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Asparagus or bell peppers make excellent additions for more color and nutrition.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you serve it without pasta and choose gluten-free options for any sides.