This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish with tender shrimp cooked in buttery garlic sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for a busy night dinner.
I like to make this when I want something flavorful but simple. It smells so good I sometimes sneak a extra helping!
Serve it over rice or pasta for a filling meal. I keep some frozen shrimp on hand for when I need a fast, delicious dinner idea.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for a strong, bright flavor. I peel and mince it finely for even distribution. If you’re short on fresh garlic, garlic powder works—use about half as much as fresh.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create the sauce. I prefer high-quality butter for the best taste, but margarine is a decent substitute if needed. Keep the heat moderate when melting.
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp make for easy eating. Fresh or thawed frozen both work well. If shrimp is unavailable, scallops can be a tasty swap with a similar texture.
Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes boost flavor. I like to sprinkle a little extra seasoning to taste. For a fresh twist, add chopped parsley or lemon juice—these brighten the dish.
How do I sear shrimp without it drying out?
Heat your skillet over medium-high to ensure a quick, even sear. Pat shrimp dry to remove excess moisture, which helps them brown better. Add oil first, then shrimp—avoid overcrowding so they sear instead of steam.
- Place shrimp in the hot skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for about 2 minutes without moving to get a good crust.
- Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque.
- Remove promptly to prevent overcooking; serve immediately.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
Butter and Garlic
Seasonings and Garnishes
How Much Time Will You Need?
Prep time: 10 minutes. Cook time: 10 minutes. Total: 20 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 and cook garlic
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Cook the shrimp
Add shrimp to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
4. Finish with lemon and parsley
Stir in lemon juice. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot.
