Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, elegant dish bursting with fresh, zesty flavor and rich buttery goodness. Juicy shrimp are sautéed in a fragrant blend of garlic, lemon juice, and melted butter, creating a silky sauce that’s perfect for spooning over rice, pasta, or crusty bread. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights yet impressive enough for guests, delivering restaurant-quality taste in under 30 minutes.
Prep Time
- Preparation Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 500g shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- Salt (to taste)
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
Ingredient Notes
- Shrimp: Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp. Medium to large shrimp work best for a juicy bite.
- Butter & Olive Oil: The combination prevents the butter from burning while adding rich flavor.
- Lemon Juice & Zest: Fresh lemon is key for a bright, tangy taste—avoid bottled juice if possible.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides the most intense flavor.
Instructions
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels and seasoning them lightly with salt and black pepper. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside to prevent overcooking.
In the same skillet, add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic. Stir in the lemon juice, lemon zest, and red chili flakes if using.
Return the shrimp to the pan and toss gently to coat them in the sauce. Cook for another minute until everything is heated through and well combined. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and remove from heat.
Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or warm bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 280–320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Omega-3: Moderate
Tips
- Do not overcook shrimp—they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
- Cook shrimp in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
- Add a splash of white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and taste.
Variations
- Creamy Version: Add a splash of heavy cream for a richer sauce.
- Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Sprinkle grated parmesan cheese before serving.
- Spicy Lemon Shrimp: Increase chili flakes or add fresh chopped chilies.
- Honey Lemon Shrimp: Add a teaspoon of honey for a sweet-tangy twist.
- Grilled Shrimp: Marinate and grill instead of pan-cooking for a smoky flavor.