Stovetop Garlic Butter Shrimp
Stovetop garlic butter shrimp is a fast and luxurious dish where plump shrimp are seared in a glossy pool of garlicky butter. The natural sweetness of the shrimp plays against the savory garlic and a bright squeeze of lemon, making every bite feel indulgent. Serve it over rice, tossed with pasta, or simply with crusty bread to soak up every drop of the sauce.
- ⏱ 10 min
- 📊 easy
- 🍽 For Two
Ingredients
- 400 g large shrimp, peeled
- 3 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 lemon
- 2 tbsp parsley
Instructions
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season them lightly with salt and pepper, which helps them brown rather than steam in the pan.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add one tablespoon of butter, swirling until it foams and just starts to smell nutty, about 1 minute.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer without crowding and sear for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and the edges curl into a loose C shape, then transfer them to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium, add the remaining butter and the minced garlic, and stir constantly for about 30 to 45 seconds until fragrant but not browned, since burnt garlic turns bitter.
- Return the shrimp to the pan along with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and toss for 30 seconds so they soak up the sauce and finish cooking through.
- Remove from the heat, scatter chopped parsley over the top, and serve right away while the butter is still glossy and warm.
💡 Chef's tip
Pat the shrimp completely dry before they hit the pan, because surface moisture creates steam and prevents the quick golden sear that gives the shrimp their best flavor.
Shrimp cook in about 2 minutes per side; pulling them the moment they turn opaque and curl into a loose C (not a tight O) is what keeps them snappy instead of rubbery.
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 32 g
- Carbs: 3 g
- Fat: 18 g
