This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and tasty dish with tender shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that comes together in minutes.
I like to make plenty so I can snack on leftovers later. Sometimes I even dip bread into the extra buttery sauce—so good!
For a healthy twist, serve it over steamed veggies or brown rice. It’s simple, flavorful, and sure to become a weeknight favorite.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for a strong, bright flavor. I recommend mincing it finely so it releases its best aroma. If you’re out, garlic powder works in a pinch—use about 1 teaspoon for fresh garlic’s flavor.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps create a luscious sauce. I usually use European-style butter for extra creaminess. You can swap with margarine or olive oil, but the flavor will be slightly different.
Raw Shrimp: Use large or jumbo peeled shrimp, deveined for easy eating. I prefer shrimp that are fresh or well-thawed. For a different flavor, salmon or scallops are good substitutes, but adjust cooking time.
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a gentle heat and depth. I love a pinch for just a subtle kick. If you prefer milder, reduce or omit. Cayenne is a good spicy alternative if you like more heat.
Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon brightens the dish. I always squeeze my own for the best flavor. In a pinch, bottled lemon juice works, but it’s less vibrant.
How do I sear shrimp without it drying out?
Heat your skillet over medium-high before adding shrimp. Pat the shrimp dry, then place them in the hot pan without overcrowding. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Overcooking shrinks them and makes them tough.
- Use a hot skillet to get a good sear quickly.
- Don’t move the shrimp around too much—let them develop a crust.
- Cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding and steaming.
- Remove as soon as pink and opaque—residual heat finishes cooking them but keeps them tender.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Butter & Oils
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Garlic & Seasonings
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Finishings
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
10 minutes prep + 8 minutes cook = 18 minutes total
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the ingredients
Peel and devein the shrimp if needed. Mince the garlic. Gather all ingredients ready to use.
2. Heat skillet and cook shrimp
Place a large skillet over medium heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, add shrimp, and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes. Cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Make garlic butter sauce
Push shrimp to one side of the skillet. Add remaining butter to the empty side. Once melted, add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring often.
4. Combine and garnish
Mix shrimp with garlic butter. Cook together for another minute. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve immediately. Enjoy!
