Butter and garlic create a rich, savory flavor. When combined with shrimp, they melt into something special. The smooth sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp. Each bite bursts with bold, buttery goodness. The balance between creamy and savory is what makes this pairing so perfect.
The Magic of Butter and Garlic
Garlic, butter, shrimp create a rich, savory flavor. When combined, they melt into something special. The smooth, creamy sauce enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp. Each bite bursts with bold, buttery goodness. The balance between creamy and savory is what makes this pairing so perfect.
Why Shrimp Loves Butter and Garlic
Shrimp absorbs flavors quickly, making it an ideal match for butter and garlic. The butter gives a silky texture. The garlic adds a hint of spice. When mixed together, they coat the shrimp in pure deliciousness. Every bite feels indulgent yet balanced. The flavors seep into the shrimp, making it juicy and full of taste. A touch of salt and pepper brings everything together.
Choosing the Best Shrimp
Not all shrimp are the same. Some hold up better to cooking than others. Tiger shrimp is ideal because it is firm and juicy. Jumbo shrimp is the best choice for this recipe. Extra-large shrimp also works well. Smaller shrimp cook too fast and can turn rubbery. The bigger the shrimp, the better it holds onto the butter and garlic sauce. Fresh shrimp is always best, but frozen shrimp can work if thawed properly.
Cooking for the Perfect Texture
Shrimp should stay plump and tender. Cooking too long makes them tough and chewy. Butter helps lock in moisture while keeping the texture soft. A quick, hot sear is key. First, heat the pan until it’s very hot. Then, add the butter and garlic. When the butter sizzles, toss in the shrimp. Cook each side for just a couple of minutes. The result? A perfect balance of crispy edges and juicy centers. The butter caramelizes slightly, giving the shrimp even more flavor.
Bringing It All Together
When butter melts with garlic, the aroma is irresistible. The sauce coats each shrimp evenly, making every bite rich and flavorful. The flavors meld into something unforgettable. A squeeze of lemon at the end adds brightness and a little tang. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness. Serve it with rice, pasta, or a warm baguette to soak up the sauce. The final dish is simple, yet full of depth.
Also read: Enjoying Shrimp: A Guide to Healthy, Sustainable Choices – 👍
The Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredients
- 1 pound shrimp peeled deveined and patted dry
- ¾ teaspoon salt* divided (see notes below) or taste
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pinch sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 5 tablespoons butter divided
- 4 large garlic cloves finely chopped
- ¼ cup stock** or wine (see notes below)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Add shrimp to a bowl and toss it with ½ teaspoon salt, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ¼ teaspoon black pepper and one pinch sugar.
- Add the olive oil in a large pan and let it heat up over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp, spread into an even layer, and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until shrimp are pink and opaque. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
- Add 4 tablespoons butter to the pan and let it melt. Add the garlic and pale golden in color, for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Stir in the stock or wine, lemon juice, parsley, red pepper flakes and remaing ¼ teaspoon salt. Let it come to a simmer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes or thickened slightly.
- Stir in the shrimp along with the remaining juices and the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter. Serve with toasted bread, pasta or rice.
Notes
- Chicken Stock: This is a versatile choice and pairs well with garlic butter shrimp, adding a subtle savory depth without overpowering the dish.
- Vegetable Stock: A great option if you’re looking for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly alternative. It complements the lemon and garlic flavors nicely.
- Seafood Stock: If you want to enhance the shrimp’s natural seafood flavor, this is the ideal choice. It’s especially fitting for seafood-focused dishes.
More to read: Our Best Shrimp Recipes – NYT Cooking
