Hey everyone, Jason Griffith here! Today, I’m bringing you one of my absolute favorite weeknight lifesavers: Simple Garlic Shrimp. When you need a delicious meal on the table in minutes, this recipe is your secret weapon. It’s incredibly flavorful, super versatile, and ridiculously easy to make. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

What’s not to love about a dish that delivers gourmet flavor with minimal effort and time? This simple garlic shrimp truly embodies that idea. I’m a huge fan of seafood, and shrimp is particularly fantastic because it cooks so quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity – fresh shrimp, plenty of garlic, and a hint of lemon and herbs create a vibrant, comforting dish. It’s light yet satisfying, and honestly, it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant, but you made it yourself in under 15 minutes. Plus, it’s a healthy option that pairs well with just about anything!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this quick and tasty garlic shrimp:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed)
• 4-6 cloves garlic, minced (don’t be shy here!)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Swaps and Notes

• Shrimp: I prefer large shrimp for a meatier bite, but medium shrimp work just as well. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This helps them sear nicely.
• Garlic: You can never have too much garlic in my opinion! Adjust the amount to your preference.
• Wine/Broth: The dry white wine adds a lovely depth of flavor, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, chicken broth or even vegetable broth are excellent substitutes.
• Red Pepper Flakes: If you’re not a fan of spice, feel free to omit the red pepper flakes. If you like more heat, you can always add a bit more!
• Herbs: While parsley is my go-to for its fresh flavor, you could experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or even a touch of fresh oregano.
• Butter vs. Olive Oil: The combination of butter and olive oil gives the best flavor and helps prevent the butter from burning too quickly. You can use all olive oil if you prefer, but you’ll miss out on some of that richness.

Steps for the Recipe

Let’s get this simple garlic shrimp on the table in a flash:

1. Prep the Shrimp: If your shrimp aren’t already peeled and deveined, do that first. Then, lay them out on a plate lined with paper towels and pat them thoroughly dry. This step is crucial for getting a nice sear! Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and slightly bubbling.
3. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30-60 seconds, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Cook Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. Overcooked shrimp are rubbery, so keep an eye on them!
5. Deglaze and Finish: Pour in the white wine or chicken broth and lemon juice. Let it simmer for about 30 seconds, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and pick up all those delicious flavors from the bottom of the pan.
6. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overcook: This is the golden rule for shrimp! They cook very quickly. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.
• Pat Dry: Seriously, don’t skip patting the shrimp dry. Wet shrimp will steam instead of sear, and you won’t get that lovely golden crust.
• Hot Pan: Start with a hot skillet to ensure the shrimp cook quickly and evenly.
• Fresh Garlic is Best: While garlic powder can work in a pinch, fresh minced garlic makes a huge difference in flavor here.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best enjoyed right after it’s cooked.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Simple Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile! Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy it:

• Pasta: Toss it with your favorite pasta (linguine or spaghetti is classic for a “scampi” style) for a quick and satisfying meal.
• Rice: Serve it over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice to soak up all that delicious garlicky sauce.
• Crusty Bread: Don’t forget some crusty bread for dipping into the sauce!
• Vegetables: Pair it with steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or a simple side salad.
• Grits: For a Southern-inspired meal, serve it over creamy grits.
• Beverage Pairings: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio would complement the flavors beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing sparkling water with lemon is perfect.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Garlic shrimp is truly best eaten fresh. The texture of shrimp can change if reheated, often becoming rubbery. If you do have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or briefly in the microwave, being careful not to overcook. I wouldn’t recommend freezing cooked shrimp from this recipe.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you enjoy quick, flavorful meals like this, you’ll definitely want to try some of these other favorites:

• For another easy, hearty meal, check out This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole Is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit.
• If you’re in the mood for comforting Southern flavors, This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo Is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort is a must-try.
• Looking for another quick skillet meal? This Tomato Skillet with Okra and Sausage Is My Favorite Quick Dinner Packed with Southern Flavor is fantastic.
• And for something lighter, my A Light Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave (and There’s No Mayo in Sight!) is perfect.

---

Final Thoughts

This Simple Garlic Shrimp recipe is a true testament to the idea that delicious food doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. It’s a lifesaver on busy nights and impressive enough for company. I hope you give it a try and enjoy every garlicky, buttery bite!

Let me know in the comments below if this becomes your new favorite go-to shrimp recipe, or what you like to serve it with! I always love hearing from you. Happy cooking!