Garlic Butter Shrimp (Ready in 15 Minutes!)

This is the quintessential fast, impressive, and luxurious dish that feels like a restaurant meal. The key is high heat, quick cooking, and a sauce you’ll want to drink with a spoon.

Ingredients

Serves 2 (can easily be doubled)

· 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
· Salt and black pepper
· ½ tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
· 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
· 4-5 large garlic cloves, minced (about 2 tbsp)
· ¼ cup (60ml) dry white wine, chicken broth, or water
· 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
· Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
· 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or chives

For Serving: Crusty bread, pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles.

Instructions

1. Prep & Season: Pat shrimp very dry with paper towels. This is crucial for a good sear. Toss shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika.
2. Sear the Shrimp: In a large skillet (preferably stainless steel or cast iron), melt 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat until hot. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd—cook in batches if needed. Remove shrimp to a plate.
3. Make the Legendary Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 3 tbsp butter to the skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30-60 seconds until fragrant—do not let it burn!
4. Deglaze: Pour in white wine or broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor!). Let simmer for 1-2 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Finish: Remove from heat. Stir in lemon juice and parsley. Return the shrimp and any accumulated juices to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
6. Serve Immediately: Pour everything onto a warm platter or serve straight from the skillet. Do not forget the bread for soaking up every last drop of sauce.

Pro Tips for Perfection

· The Dry Shrimp Secret: The #1 mistake is wet shrimp, which steams instead of searing. Dry them thoroughly.
· Butter Temp: Use high heat to sear the shrimp, but lower it when making the garlic butter sauce to prevent burning the garlic.
· Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cook in just 3-4 minutes total. They’re done when they form a loose “C” shape; an “O” means they’re overdone.
· Amplify the Flavor: Add a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer sauce, or a handful of cherry tomatoes in step 3 before deglazing.

Serving Ideas:

· Over Pasta: Toss with cooked linguine or angel hair.
· Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
· As an Appetizer: Serve in a bowl with toothpicks and bread on the side.
· The Classic: In a shallow bowl with a huge piece of crusty bread—this is non-negotiable.

Enjoy your incredibly fast, decadent, and crowd-pleasing garlic butter shrimp! It’s the kind of dish that makes regular nights feel special.