Looking for a quick meal that bursts with flavor? Try my Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet! This dish is fast and easy, perfect for busy nights. In under 10 minutes, you can enjoy juicy shrimp coated in rich garlic butter. I’ll guide you through simple steps, ingredient swaps, and expert tips to make this meal a hit. Let’s dive in and get cooking!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Measurement Tips
When you measure shrimp, use a kitchen scale. This gives you accurate amounts. For butter, use tablespoons. It helps keep the taste rich. For fresh parsley, chop it finely for better flavor.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use olive oil instead of butter for a lighter dish. For garlic, try garlic powder if you don’t have fresh. If you want less heat, skip the red pepper flakes. You can replace lemon juice with lime juice for a twist.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
First, gather all your ingredients. You need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon slices for garnish
Next, make sure the shrimp are clean and ready. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley. This prep takes just a few minutes.
Cooking Process
Now, let’s cook! Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it melts and bubbles, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30 seconds. Watch carefully, so the garlic does not burn.
Then, add the shrimp in a single layer. Season them with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes. Flip the shrimp halfway through. You want them pink and opaque.
Next, squeeze the lemon juice over the shrimp. Add the other 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir well to coat the shrimp in the rich sauce. Let the butter melt, creating a tasty blend.
Finally, remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh parsley. This adds a nice color and flavor.
Plating Suggestions
To serve, place the shrimp on a plate. Drizzle some of the buttery sauce on top. Add lemon slices on the side for a fresh touch. This dish looks great and tastes even better. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Garlic Butter Shrimp
To make the best garlic butter shrimp, start with fresh, high-quality shrimp. Choose large shrimp for a nice bite. Peel and devein them for easy eating. Melt the butter over medium heat. This helps keep the shrimp juicy. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté them briefly to avoid burning. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink. This keeps them tender, not rubbery. Finally, finish with lemon juice and fresh parsley for flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is cooking shrimp for too long. Overcooked shrimp can become tough. Be sure to watch the color change. Another mistake is burning garlic. Garlic turns bitter when burnt. Keep the heat moderate when cooking garlic. Lastly, don’t skip the seasoning. Salt and pepper enhance the shrimp’s natural flavor. Always season both sides of the shrimp.
Enhancing Flavor Options
You can play with flavors in this dish. Add a splash of white wine for depth. Swap in fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a twist. If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes. For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end. Consider adding veggies like spinach or bell peppers for color and nutrition. Experimenting makes the dish your own!
Variations
Additions and Modifications
You can change this recipe to fit your taste. Add veggies like bell peppers or asparagus for color and crunch. You could also toss in some cherry tomatoes for a sweet touch. If you love cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top before serving. Want more spice? Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have a skillet, try using an air fryer or grill. For air frying, cook the shrimp at 400°F for about 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking. If you grill, thread shrimp onto skewers. Grill each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Both methods will give you a tasty and quick meal.
Pairing Suggestions
This garlic butter shrimp pairs well with many sides. Serve it over rice for a filling meal. Quinoa is a great option too. You could also enjoy it with a green salad for a light dish. Garlic bread makes the perfect side to soak up that yummy sauce. And don’t forget a chilled glass of white wine to complement the flavors!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftover shrimp, let them cool first. Place shrimp in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to two days. Make sure to cover the shrimp well to keep them fresh.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a skillet over low heat. Add a small amount of butter to help keep the shrimp moist. Heat for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often. Avoid high heat, as it can make the shrimp tough.
Freezing Recommendations
If you want to freeze shrimp, do so right after cooking. Let the shrimp cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Remove as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Frozen shrimp can last up to three months. To use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
How long does it take to cook garlic butter shrimp?
Cooking garlic butter shrimp takes about 10 minutes. This includes prep and cooking time. You’ll spend 5 minutes getting ready and then 5 minutes cooking. The shrimp cook fast, so stay close to the pan!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Once thawed, peel and devein them if needed. Then, you can cook them just like fresh shrimp.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp?
Garlic butter shrimp pairs well with many sides. Here are some ideas:
- Steamed rice
- Pasta
- Fresh salad
- Garlic bread
- Grilled vegetables
These sides will soak up the tasty sauce and balance the meal.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat to your garlic butter shrimp, use more red pepper flakes. Start with one extra teaspoon. For more spice, try adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice to match your taste!
In this post, we explored how to make garlic butter shrimp. We covered key ingredients, measurement tips, and easy substitutions. I shared step-by-step cooking and plating advice. You learned how to perfect the dish and avoid common mistakes. We also discussed tasty variations, storage advice, and reheating methods.
With these tips, you can enjoy this dish anytime. Happy cooking!
