Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp – Bold, Buttery, and Ready in 20 Minutes
If you’re craving something rich, satisfying, and lightning-fast to make, this Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp is your new go-to dish. It’s a skillet wonder that comes together in just 20 minutes, featuring golden-seared shrimp drenched in a fragrant garlic butter sauce with zesty lemon and fresh herbs.
This recipe is elegant enough for dinner guests and easy enough for a midweek meal. Serve it on its own as a succulent appetizer, or ladle it over pasta, rice, or warm crusty bread for a full-on comfort feast.
Why I Love This Recipe
This shrimp dish hits all the flavor notes I love—bold garlic, silky butter, a zing of lemon, and that irresistible shrimp sweetness with a subtle chili kick. The quick prep time and minimal cleanup make it a lifesaver for busy nights when I still want something that feels indulgent.
It’s also endlessly versatile—serve it with roasted veggies, tuck it into tacos, or toss it with linguine for a meal that tastes like it came from your favorite seafood spot.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Season the Shrimp
Lightly pat shrimp dry with paper towels, then season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2️⃣ Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate.
3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and chili flakes (if using). Stir for 1 minute, just until the garlic becomes fragrant—be careful not to burn it!
4️⃣ Combine and Finish
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything and sprinkle with chopped parsley.
5️⃣ Serve
Serve immediately. This dish is fantastic with:
- Steamed rice or buttered noodles
- Toasted baguette or quesadillas
- Over a light salad or sautéed greens
Tips for Success
- Use large or jumbo shrimp for the best sear and juiciness.
- For easy peeling, buy shrimp that are already deveined.
- Add a dash of white wine to the pan for a fancier twist.
- Don’t overcook! Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left too long.
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp
Looking for perfect pairings? Try these delicious complements:
- Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo – a hearty Southern side
- Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole – for a filling dinner plate
- Blueberry Lemonade – the citrus note pairs perfectly
- The Slippery Drank – for a fun after-dinner treat
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth—avoid the microwave to keep the shrimp from turning rubbery.
Final Thoughts
This Pan-Fried Garlic Butter Shrimp is everything a weeknight meal should be—quick, comforting, and packed with restaurant-quality flavor. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to earn a permanent place in your recipe rotation.
Tried it? Tag @chefmaniac with your shrimp skillet and tell us how you served yours. Don’t forget to follow for more speedy gourmet recipes!
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