Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

It’s funny how some of the simplest recipes can become absolute staples in your kitchen. Take this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp, for example. I stumbled upon it during one of those frantic weeknight dinner searches, and honestly, it’s been on repeat ever since. The first time I made it, the aroma alone had my family practically glued to the kitchen. And the taste? Oh my goodness, the taste! Imagine succulent, perfectly cooked shrimp swimming in a rich, garlicky, buttery sauce that’s just begging to be soaked up with crusty bread or tossed with pasta. Even my pickiest eater, who usually eyes seafood with suspicion, devoured it. It’s become our go-to for quick weeknight meals, impressive enough for a casual dinner party, and honestly, just pure comfort food in a pan. If you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, incredibly flavorful, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser, look no further. This Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen.

Ingredients

To create this symphony of flavors, you’ll need a handful of readily available ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in building that signature creamy, garlicky, buttery taste that will leave you wanting more. Let’s break down each component and discuss why they are essential for achieving the perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp.

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the show! When it comes to shrimp, size matters to some extent. Large shrimp (around 21-25 count per pound) are ideal because they cook up plump and juicy, and they are substantial enough to hold their own against the rich sauce. Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined for ease of eating and a cleaner flavor. You can use fresh or frozen shrimp; if using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Patting them dry is a crucial step as excess moisture can hinder browning and dilute the sauce. For the best flavor, opt for wild-caught or sustainably sourced shrimp if possible.
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter: Butter is the backbone of this decadent sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish completely. The butter will melt down to create a luscious base, infusing the shrimp and garlic with its rich, creamy flavor. Don’t skimp on the butter; it’s essential for that signature buttery taste that makes this dish so irresistible. If you’re watching your sodium intake, you can use lightly salted butter and adjust the added salt accordingly, or even a blend of unsalted butter and a touch of olive oil for a slightly lighter profile while still retaining the buttery richness.
• 6 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is the aromatic powerhouse that elevates this dish from simple to sensational. Freshly minced garlic is non-negotiable here. Pre-minced garlic in jars often lacks the pungent, fresh flavor that freshly minced cloves deliver. Six cloves might seem like a lot, but garlic mellows beautifully as it cooks in butter, creating a fragrant and savory foundation for the sauce. If you are a true garlic lover, feel free to add even more! Minced garlic ensures that the garlic flavor permeates the entire dish, releasing its aromatic oils into the butter and shrimp.
• ¼ cup dry white wine (optional, but recommended): White wine adds a layer of complexity and acidity that balances the richness of the butter and cream. A dry white wine like Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay works wonderfully. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a subtle fruity and tangy note that enhances the overall flavor profile. If you prefer to omit the wine, you can substitute it with chicken broth or even a squeeze of extra lemon juice to maintain a touch of acidity. The wine helps to deglaze the pan and create a more nuanced sauce, lifting the flavors and preventing the dish from being overly heavy.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Heavy cream is what transforms this dish from a simple garlic butter shrimp to a creamy garlic butter shrimp. It adds richness, body, and a velvety texture to the sauce, coating the shrimp beautifully and creating that luxurious mouthfeel. For a slightly lighter option, you can use half-and-half, but keep in mind the sauce will be less thick and rich. Heavy cream is the key to that decadent, spoon-licking sauce that makes this dish so comforting and indulgent.
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice, freshly squeezed: Fresh lemon juice is essential for brightening up the dish and adding a touch of zest. The acidity of the lemon cuts through the richness of the butter and cream, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy and adding a refreshing element. Freshly squeezed lemon juice is always preferred over bottled juice for its brighter and more vibrant flavor. Lemon juice also helps to tenderize the shrimp slightly and complements the garlic and butter beautifully.
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color, freshness, and a slightly herbaceous note that balances the richness of the sauce. It’s best to add parsley at the end of cooking to maintain its vibrant green color and fresh flavor. Reserve some extra parsley for garnish to add visual appeal to the finished dish. Parsley provides a welcome contrast to the rich sauce and adds a final layer of flavor complexity.
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Red pepper flakes add a subtle kick of heat that enhances the flavors without making the dish overly spicy. If you enjoy a touch of warmth, a pinch of red pepper flakes is highly recommended. You can adjust the amount to your preference, or omit them entirely if you prefer a completely mild dish. The subtle heat from the red pepper flakes adds depth and complexity, preventing the dish from being one-dimensional.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Seasoning is crucial for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Salt enhances the savory notes, while black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth. Season generously with salt and pepper throughout the cooking process, tasting and adjusting as needed. Remember that shrimp and garlic can handle a good amount of seasoning. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust salt and pepper to your liking. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more aromatic and robust flavor.

Instructions

Now that you have all your ingredients assembled, let’s walk through the simple steps to create this delectable Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp. This recipe is incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Follow these step-by-step instructions for perfectly cooked shrimp and a luscious, creamy sauce every time.

1. Prepare the Shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed. Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels. This is a critical step as excess moisture will steam the shrimp instead of allowing them to sear and brown properly. Season the shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Evenly seasoning at this stage ensures that the shrimp are flavorful from the inside out. Set the seasoned shrimp aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, melt the butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt completely and shimmer slightly. Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic will taste bitter. Sautéing the garlic in butter releases its aromatic oils and creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning.
3. Add White Wine (Optional): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet with the garlic and butter. Increase the heat slightly and let the wine simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly and the alcohol has evaporated. This process, known as deglazing, lifts any flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan and incorporates them into the sauce. The wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce, balancing the richness of the butter and cream. If you’re skipping the wine, move directly to the next step.
4. Add Shrimp and Cook: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lower the temperature and cause the shrimp to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy.
5. Stir in Heavy Cream, Lemon Juice, and Red Pepper Flakes: Reduce the heat to low. Pour in the heavy cream and stir gently to combine it with the garlic butter sauce. Add the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened. The heavy cream will create a luscious, velvety sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. The lemon juice brightens the flavors, and the red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth.
6. Add Parsley and Serve: Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve immediately, garnished with extra fresh parsley, if desired. The parsley adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve this creamy garlic butter shrimp hot and enjoy the explosion of flavors! It’s best enjoyed immediately while the sauce is creamy and the shrimp are tender.

Nutrition Facts

Knowing the nutritional content of your meals can be helpful, especially if you are mindful of your dietary intake. Please remember that these are estimations and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Servings: 4

Approximate Nutrition Facts Per Serving:

• Calories: 350-400 (This can vary depending on portion size and added sides)
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fat: 25-30g (Primarily from butter and heavy cream)
• Saturated Fat: 15-20g
• Cholesterol: 250-300mg
• Sodium: 400-500mg (This can vary based on added salt)
• Carbohydrates: 5-7g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2-3g

Important Notes:

• These nutrition facts are estimates and should be considered as a general guideline.
• The calorie count can increase significantly if served with pasta, rice, or bread.
• This dish is relatively high in fat due to the butter and heavy cream. If you are looking for a lower-fat option, you can try substituting half-and-half for heavy cream, although the sauce will be less rich and thick.
• Shrimp is a good source of lean protein and low in carbohydrates.
• Garlic and parsley offer some vitamins and antioxidants.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutrition calculators or apps, inputting the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time

One of the greatest advantages of this Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is its speed and simplicity. From start to finish, you can have a delicious and impressive meal on the table in a remarkably short amount of time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes (This includes peeling and deveining shrimp, mincing garlic, chopping parsley, and squeezing lemon juice)
• Cook Time: 15 minutes (This includes sautéing garlic, cooking shrimp, and making the creamy sauce)
• Total Time: 25 minutes

This recipe is truly a weeknight winner! In just about half an hour, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish that is packed with flavor and sure to impress. The quick cooking time of shrimp and the simple sauce preparation make this recipe ideal for busy individuals and families who want a delicious and healthy meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The minimal prep work also makes it a breeze to throw together even on the most hectic evenings.

How to Serve

Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Its rich and flavorful sauce makes it a perfect companion to starches, vegetables, and salads. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to make it a complete and satisfying meal:

• Pasta:
  • Linguine or Spaghetti: Toss the creamy garlic butter shrimp and sauce with perfectly cooked linguine or spaghetti. The long strands of pasta are ideal for capturing the luscious sauce.
  • Fettuccine: Fettuccine’s broader surface area also holds the creamy sauce exceptionally well, creating a hearty and satisfying pasta dish.
  • Angel Hair Pasta: For a lighter option, angel hair pasta is a delicate choice that still allows the shrimp and sauce to shine.
  • Mix with Cooked Pasta: Simply toss the cooked pasta with the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp in the skillet, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce. Garnish with extra parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired.
• Rice:
  • White Rice: Steamed white rice is a classic and simple accompaniment that soaks up the flavorful sauce beautifully.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier option, brown rice provides a nutty flavor and more fiber.
  • Quinoa: Quinoa is another nutritious grain that works well with the creamy shrimp, offering a protein boost.
  • Garlic Rice: Enhance the garlic theme by serving the shrimp with garlic rice for an extra layer of flavor.
• Crusty Bread:
  • Baguette: Slices of crusty baguette are perfect for soaking up every last drop of the delicious garlic butter sauce.
  • Sourdough: Sourdough bread’s tangy flavor provides a nice contrast to the richness of the sauce.
  • Garlic Bread: For an extra indulgent treat, serve with homemade or store-bought garlic bread.
  • Toasted Bread: Lightly toasted bread slices or crostini are also excellent for dipping into the sauce.
• Vegetables:
  • Steamed Broccoli or Asparagus: Steamed green vegetables provide a healthy and colorful side dish that complements the richness of the shrimp.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, bell peppers, or zucchini add a smoky and caramelized flavor that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
  • Sautéed Spinach or Green Beans: Quickly sautéed spinach or green beans offer a simple and nutritious vegetable side.
  • Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and flavorful shrimp.
• Other Options:
  • Polenta: Creamy polenta is a delicious and comforting base for the Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp.
  • Mashed Potatoes: Classic mashed potatoes are another excellent option for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
  • Cauliflower Mash: For a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, cauliflower mash is a creamy and healthy choice.

No matter how you choose to serve it, Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Experiment with different sides to find your favorite combinations and create a complete and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Additional Tips for Perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp

To ensure your Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp turns out perfectly every time, here are five essential tips to keep in mind:

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, and overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, and are cooked through. This usually takes only 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size. Err on the side of slightly undercooked if you are unsure, as they will continue to cook slightly in the residual heat of the sauce. Perfectly cooked shrimp should be tender and juicy, not chewy.
2. Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is crucial for the best flavor. Pre-minced garlic in jars often lacks the pungent, fresh aroma and flavor that freshly minced cloves provide. Take the extra minute to mince fresh garlic; it will make a significant difference in the overall taste of the dish. The fresh garlic’s oils are released during sautéing, creating a fragrant and flavorful base for the sauce.
3. Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients. Don’t be afraid to season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the cooking process. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. Consider adding a pinch more salt, pepper, or even a squeeze of extra lemon juice to brighten the flavors further if needed. Proper seasoning elevates the entire dish and ensures it is perfectly balanced.
4. Control the Heat: Maintain medium heat when sautéing the garlic and cooking the shrimp. Too high heat can burn the garlic and cause the butter to brown too quickly, while too low heat will result in steamed rather than seared shrimp. Adjust the heat as needed to ensure the garlic is sautéing gently and the shrimp are searing and cooking through without burning. Controlling the heat is essential for achieving perfectly cooked shrimp and a flavorful sauce.
5. Add a Pinch of Spice (Optional but Recommended): The subtle heat from red pepper flakes adds a wonderful layer of complexity and depth to the dish. It doesn’t make the dish overly spicy, but rather enhances the other flavors and provides a pleasant warmth. If you are sensitive to spice, start with a very small pinch and adjust to your preference. The red pepper flakes balance the richness of the sauce and add a delightful subtle kick.

By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating perfect Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp every time. These simple adjustments can make a significant difference in the flavor and texture of the final dish, ensuring a delicious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp to help you troubleshoot and customize the recipe to your liking:

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes, or to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, pat the shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking. Excess moisture will hinder browning and dilute the sauce.

Q2: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

A: Yes, you can make a slightly lighter version by substituting half-and-half for heavy cream. However, keep in mind that the sauce will be less thick and rich. Another option is to use cream cheese. Whisk in a couple of tablespoons of cream cheese at the end of cooking for a creamy texture, although it will have a slightly different flavor profile. For a dairy-free alternative, you can try full-fat coconut milk, but be aware that it will impart a subtle coconut flavor to the dish.

Q3: What can I serve with Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp besides pasta and rice?

A: Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs well with many sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread for dipping, steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts, quinoa, polenta, mashed potatoes, or even a fresh side salad. Refer to the “How to Serve” section above for more detailed suggestions.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: While Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh and hot, you can prepare certain components ahead of time. You can peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley in advance. However, it is not recommended to cook the shrimp and sauce ahead of time and reheat it, as the shrimp may become rubbery, and the sauce may separate slightly. For the best results, cook the dish just before serving.

Q5: How long does leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp last?

A: Leftover Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. However, keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp may change slightly upon reheating; it might become a bit tougher. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally. Avoid overheating, as this can further dry out the shrimp. Adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth when reheating can help to restore some moisture to the sauce.

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