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Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce. With a combination of dry white wine, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning, this recipe creates a savory and smooth sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp. The addition of fresh lemon juice, parsley, and a touch of mustard powder enhances the flavor, making this dish ideal for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a delicious appetizer. Pair it with crusty bread, rice, or pasta for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Shrimp:

1 lb. large uncooked shrimp (see notes)
1/3 teaspoon paprika
1–2 tablespoons olive oil

Sauce:

¾ cup dry white wine (such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
1 ½ cups chicken broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon each: Italian seasoning, mustard powder
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 tablespoons cold salted butter
2 tablespoons roughly chopped parsley
Fresh lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

Prep Work:

Thaw the shrimp completely (if frozen) and pat dry. If needed, remove the shell, tail, and veins. Sprinkle with paprika and toss to coat.
Measure out all ingredients before starting as this recipe cooks quickly.

Cook the Shrimp:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 1 minute 20 seconds per side (use a timer to avoid overcooking).
Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a clean plate. The shrimp will continue to cook slightly from residual heat.

Make the Sauce:

Turn off the heat and pour in the white wine. It will sizzle. Use a silicone spatula to deglaze the skillet, scraping up any browned bits.
Set the heat to medium and add the chicken broth, garlic, Italian seasoning, and mustard powder. Let it bubble gently and reduce by half, about 10 minutes. The wider the skillet, the faster it will reduce.
Once the sauce has reduced and the alcohol smell has dissipated, reduce heat to low and add lemon juice. Cook for an additional minute.
Return the shrimp to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them. Heat through for 1 minute.
Add the cold butter, swirling the pan to melt it (this technique is called “monter au beurre,” adding a smooth, velvety finish).
Sprinkle with chopped parsley and garnish with fresh lemon wedges.

Serve:

Serve immediately with crusty bread for dipping.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Garlic Butter Shrimp is the perfect dish for garlic lovers. The combination of tender shrimp, a rich garlic sauce, and a buttery finish creates an irresistible flavor profile. This dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy nights, date nights, or special occasions. Whether you’re a shrimp enthusiast or just looking for a delicious, easy meal, this recipe delivers every time.

Tips

Shrimp Preparation: Make sure the shrimp are completely thawed and dried to ensure they cook evenly.
Wine Substitute: If you prefer not to use wine, substitute with more chicken broth or vegetable broth for a non-alcoholic version.
Butter Finish: For an even creamier finish, add an extra tablespoon of butter at the end.
Don’t Overcook: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be sure to watch the timer and remove them from the pan as soon as they’re opaque.

Variations and Substitutions

Herb Variations: Swap parsley for basil or cilantro for a different herbal flavor.
Add Spice: Sprinkle some red pepper flakes in the sauce for a bit of heat.
Vegetable Add-ins: For a more filling dish, add sautéed spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to the skillet.
Different Proteins: Use this garlic butter sauce with other seafood like scallops or lobster tails.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.

What can I serve with this? Pair the shrimp with pasta, rice, or a simple salad. Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Garlic butter shrimp is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prep the shrimp and sauce separately and combine them when ready to cook.

Serving

This dish is perfect as a main course or as an appetizer for a dinner party. Serve it with a side of pasta, rice, or roasted vegetables to complete the meal.

Suggestions

Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh pop of color.
Pair this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, for an elegant touch.