Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe: A Quick and Flavorful Delight
This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers! It combines the richness of butter, the bold flavor of garlic, a hint of chili spice, and a dash of crushed red pepper to create the perfect balance of flavors. Whether served as an appetizer, party dish, or main course, this recipe is both versatile and delicious. Best of all, it’s quick to prepare—making it ideal for busy weeknights.
What you will need :
This recipe is packed with flavor thanks to a few simple ingredients:
- Butter: Unsalted butter adds creamy richness.
- Shrimp: Use fresh or frozen shrimp of any size. Adjust the cooking time based on size.
- Garlic Paste: Infuses the shrimp with a bold and earthy flavor.
- Chili Pepper Paste: Adds a spicy kick—try Harissa, gochujang, or Italian chili paste.
- Lemon Juice: Enhances the dish with fresh acidity.
- Spices: Dried parsley for a hint of herbal freshness and crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Melt the Butter: Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season the Shrimp: Lightly season 1 pound of raw shrimp with salt and pepper.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add shrimp to the skillet along with 1 teaspoon of garlic paste and 1 tablespoon of chili pepper paste. Stir and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Finish the Dish: Add 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice and the remaining butter. Stir well. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of dried parsley and ½ teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes before serving.
Tips and Variations
- Make It Richer: Add extra butter at the end for a creamier texture.
- Adjust the Spice: Add more or less chili pepper paste and red pepper flakes to suit your taste. For a milder version, omit the chili paste entirely.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try using garlic powder, smoked paprika, or fresh herbs for variation.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a small amount of butter.
- Freezing: Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
This buttery garlic shrimp pairs well with various dishes:
- Serve over white rice, pasta, or mashed potatoes.
- Add to a shrimp and grits appetizer cup or use as filling for shrimp tacos.
- Pair with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
Test Kitchen Notes
- For pre-cooked shrimp, reduce cooking time to just 1 minute to prevent overcooking.
- Ensure your skillet is hot before adding shrimp to achieve the perfect sear.
This garlic butter shrimp recipe is a surefire crowd-pleaser! Perfectly seasoned, quick to make, and versatile, it’s a go-to dish for any occasion. Give it a try, and let the bold flavors speak for themselves!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter divided (½ stick)
- 1 pound raw shrimp cleaned, peeled, and deveined
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste
- 1 tablespoon chili pepper paste or red pepper paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to taste
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