There’s a certain joy that washes over me when the scent of garlic begins to fill the kitchen. It’s like an invitation to gather around the table, and today, I can’t wait to share my favorite recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp. This delightful dish showcases the bold flavors of Filipino cuisine, bringing together succulent shrimp and a buttery garlic sauce that practically begs for a warm slice of toasted French bread or a mound of fluffy white rice.
After a long day, whipping up this easy, flavorful meal feels like a luxurious treat without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting friends, planning a cozy family dinner, or simply indulging on a weeknight, this recipe is here to impress. With its tender shrimp coated in a golden, buttery glaze, each bite is a celebration of simple ingredients and delicious aromas. So, let’s dive in and make something truly special that’s sure to become a favorite at your table!
Why Will You Love Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Simplicity, this recipe is straightforward and requires just a few ingredients, making it perfect for any home cook. Flavorful, the mouthwatering combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that elevates every bite of shrimp. Versatile, you can easily switch it up by serving it over rice or pasta for a delightful twist. Quick to prepare, this dish comes together in around 15 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Crowd-pleasing, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, Garlic Butter Shrimp always impresses!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients
• A quick list to get you started on making the best Garlic Butter Shrimp dish!
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use cleaned shrimp with head and shell for enhanced flavor.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds richness; for a lighter option, margarine can be used but is less recommended.
• Garlic – Fresh minced garlic offers the best aromatic flavor; garlic powder can be a substitute.
• Lemon Lime Soda – Provides a unique sweetness; in a pinch, you can mix lemon juice with a bit of sugar.
• Lemon Juice – Balances the flavors with acidity; adjust based on your taste preferences.
For Garnish
• Parsley – Fresh parsley brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp
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Clean and Prepare: Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they’re completely clean and ready for cooking.
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Marinate: Add the shrimp to a bowl and pour in the lemon lime soda. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes to infuse the shrimp with sweetness.
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Melt Butter: In a medium pan, melt the butter over low heat. Slowly add crushed garlic and sauté until it’s lightly browned and fragrant, filling your kitchen with delicious aromas.
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Cook the Shrimp: Increase heat to medium and add the marinated shrimp. Stir and cook until the shrimp turns a vibrant orange color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
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Season Flavors: Sprinkle in salt, ground black pepper, and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together for about a minute to blend the flavors beautifully.
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Add Parsley: Toss in the chopped parsley and give it a quick stir for another 30 seconds, allowing the parsley to wilt slightly and enhance the dish’s freshness.
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Serve Warm: Serve the Garlic Butter Shrimp hot, over a steaming bowl of white rice or alongside toasted French bread to savor every drop of that rich sauce.
Optional: For extra zest, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?
To create a complete and irresistible feast, consider these delightful pairings that will enhance your dining experience.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The perfect canvas for garlic butter sauce, the fluffy grains absorb flavors beautifully, making every bite a taste sensation.
- Toasted French Bread: Crisp, buttery slices offer a wonderful contrast and are ideal for sopping up the aromatic garlic sauce.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned and bright green, they add a fresh, crunchy element to balance the rich shrimp dish beautifully.
- Mango Salad: A refreshing mix of ripe mango, cucumber, and herbs offers sweet and tangy notes that complement the savory shrimp.
- Lemon Garlic Asparagus: The bright flavors of lemon and garlic enhance the overall meal, providing another layer of flavor that pairs harmoniously with the shrimp.
- Chilled White Wine: A glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio elevates your dinner with crisp acidity, enhancing the sweet and savory flavors on your plate.
- Brown Butter Quinoa: Nutty and hearty, this gluten-free grain is a nutritious option that absorbs the delicious garlic butter and makes for a filling meal.
- Pineapple Fried Rice: This sweet and savory twist can round out your dish while harmonizing with the tropical flavors found in Filipino cuisine.
- Lemon Sorbet: A light and refreshing dessert to cleanse the palate after a rich meal, leaving a zesty sensation that lingers sweetly.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
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Fresh Is Best: Always opt for fresh shrimp over frozen to enhance the dish’s flavor. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them properly to avoid a rubbery texture.
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Garlic Timing: Sauté garlic gently to prevent burning; burnt garlic can turn bitter, ruining your rich garlic butter sauce.
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Perfect Cooking: Avoid overcooking shrimp; they should turn pink and opaque in just a few minutes for optimal tenderness in your Garlic Butter Shrimp.
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Sweetness Control: Be mindful of the sweetness from lemon-lime soda. Adjust with lemon juice carefully, as too much can overpower the balance of flavors.
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Flavor Boost: For a pasta variation, add some white wine and red pepper flakes to elevate the taste profile even more, making it a delightful twist on classic Garlic Butter Shrimp.
Make Ahead Options
Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fantastic recipe for meal prep lovers! To save time during busy weeks, you can clean and devein the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce (butter, garlic, and seasonings) ahead, keeping it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce over low heat, add the marinated shrimp, and cook until they turn a vibrant orange—this ensures they remain juicy and flavorful. This way, you’ll have an effortlessly delicious meal ready with minimal effort!
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp
Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: If you want to freeze, portion it out in airtight bags or containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or lemon juice to revive its flavor and prevent overcooking the shrimp.
Serving Tip: Always serve warm after reheating, making it a delicious option any day of the week!
Variations & Substitutions for Garlic Butter Shrimp
Feel free to get creative and customize this dish to suit your taste buds!
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Pasta Swap: Use cooked spaghetti or linguine instead of rice for a scrumptious pasta dish. Tossed in buttery sauce, it’s simply heavenly!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a delightful heat that balances perfectly with the butter and garlic. It’s a fiery twist that brings excitement!
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Dairy-Free Option: Substitute vegan butter for a fully plant-based dish. Your shrimp will still be succulent, and the rich flavors remain intact.
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Zesty Citrus: Replace lemon lime soda with fresh orange juice for a subtly sweet and vibrant flavor. The dish will take on a refreshing twist that’s irresistibly bright!
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Herbal Infusion: Add fresh basil or cilantro instead of parsley for a unique herbal note that complements the shrimp beautifully. It introduces a fresh aroma worth savoring!
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Umami Boost: Incorporate soy sauce or fish sauce into the garlic butter mix. This flavorful addition deepens the savory notes, making every bite umami-packed!
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Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a luscious sauce. This creamy version is decadent and incredibly satisfying—as if you’re dining at a fine restaurant!
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Vegetable Medley: Sauté some bell peppers, snow peas, or broccoli alongside the shrimp for added nutrition and texture. This veggie boost makes it a colorful and wholesome meal!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Absolutely! I recommend using fresh, cleaned shrimp with their heads and shells on if possible because this enhances the flavor. However, if you can only find shelled shrimp, that will work perfectly fine too!
How should I store leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp?
To keep your Garlic Butter Shrimp fresh, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate them. They should be consumed within 2 days for the best flavor and quality. Cool the dish to room temperature before sealing to lock in freshness.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp?
Yes, you can freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp! Portion it into airtight containers or freezer bags, ensuring you remove as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it gently on the stovetop.
What should I do if my shrimp is overcooked?
Very! If you find your shrimp has become rubbery due to overcooking, the best remedy is to mix it with a bit of broth or more garlic butter when reheating. This can help rejuvenate the texture and moisture. Remember, shrimp cooks quickly; aim for just 3-4 minutes of cooking time until they turn pink!
Is Garlic Butter Shrimp gluten-free?
Yes, Garlic Butter Shrimp is gluten-free as it contains no gluten ingredients. Just be cautious with any side items you choose to pair it with, like bread or pasta, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
While you can use margarine as a substitute, I suggest sticking with butter to keep that rich, authentic flavor. Butter provides a creaminess that truly enhances the sauce in Garlic Butter Shrimp, making it a delightful experience!
Garlic Butter Shrimp: Easy Filipino Flavor You’ll Adore
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by cleaning and deveining the shrimp. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they're completely clean and ready for cooking.
- Add the shrimp to a bowl and pour in the lemon lime soda. Allow them to marinate for about 10 minutes.
- In a medium pan, melt the butter over low heat. Add crushed garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Increase heat to medium and add the marinated shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turns a vibrant orange color, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Sprinkle in salt, ground black pepper, and squeeze in fresh lemon juice. Stir everything together for about a minute.
- Toss in the chopped parsley and give it a quick stir for another 30 seconds.
- Serve hot over white rice or alongside toasted French bread.