Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Succulent shrimp are cooked in rich butter and garlic, then brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s a simple yet impressive meal.

Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Gather all ingredients and ensure the shrimp are thawed if frozen.
- Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it becomes bubbly.
- Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Step 4: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Step 5: Squeeze the lemon juice over the cooked shrimp and toss gently to coat them evenly, then remove the skillet from heat.
- Step 6: Garnish the shrimp with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor, but frozen shrimp thawed completely also work well.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes in step 3 for a spicy kick.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the garlicky butter sauce.
- Swap parsley for cilantro for a different fresh garnish.
Storage
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.
How do I avoid overcooking the shrimp?
Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, usually 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking shrimp can make them tough and rubbery.
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Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet is a quick and easy seafood dish that features tender shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter and brightened with fresh lemon juice. Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a simple yet flavorful appetizer. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a delightful combination of buttery, garlicky, and citrusy flavors that shrimp lovers will enjoy.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Garnishes
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients and make sure frozen shrimp are fully thawed to ensure even cooking.
- Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter until it becomes bubbly, creating a flavorful base for the shrimp.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, careful not to burn the garlic.
- Cook Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet; cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the cooked shrimp, tossing gently to coat the shrimp evenly and add a bright citrus flavor.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor; garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch but will alter the taste.
- Be careful not to overcook shrimp as they can become rubbery; watch for the pink color as your doneness indicator.
- Serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
- For a spicier version, sprinkle some red pepper flakes while sautéing the garlic.
- Frozen shrimp should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight or quickly under cold running water before cooking.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Garlic Butter Shrimp, Easy Shrimp Recipe, Quick Seafood Dinner, Skillet Shrimp, Lemon Garlic Shrimp

