Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp

1. Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp

Introduction

Bring restaurant-quality seafood to your table in just 20 minutes with this Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp. Juicy, tender shrimp are seared to perfection in a rich garlic butter sauce with a splash of fresh lemon juice and a sprinkle of parsley. This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, elegant dinners, or as a delicious appetizer. Pair it with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to soak up every drop of the irresistible buttery sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 20 minutes
• Rich garlic butter flavor
• Juicy, tender shrimp every time
• Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining
• Easy one-pan recipe with minimal cleanup

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

• 1½ pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Optional Garnishes

• Lemon wedges
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Red pepper flakes

Instructions

1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with the paprika, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet.
5. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant.
6. Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter sauce.
8. Sprinkle with the chopped parsley and cook for another 30 seconds.
9. Serve immediately with lemon wedges and a pinch of red pepper flakes or Parmesan cheese if desired.

Tips

• Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they become rubbery very quickly.
• Fresh garlic provides the best flavor.
• Use large or jumbo shrimp for the juiciest results.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp over linguine, fettuccine, steamed rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or cauliflower rice. Pair it with roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, a crisp green salad, or warm crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, elegant, and incredibly flavorful seafood recipe that’s perfect for any occasion. With succulent shrimp coated in a rich garlic butter sauce and brightened with fresh lemon, this easy one-pan dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection.