Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
A fast skillet dinner with tender shrimp, fresh lemon, garlic, butter, and parsley.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fast skillet dinner with tender shrimp, fresh lemon, garlic, butter, and parsley. The stovetop method keeps the cooking and sauce-building in one pan.
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Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes, optional
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley
For Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Crusty bread, rice, or pasta
Substitutions
- Replace shrimp with bite-size chicken breast or a firm white fish, adjusting the cooking time and safe temperature.
- Use dairy-free butter or olive oil in place of butter, noting that the sauce will taste lighter.
Instructions
Step 1: Dry and season the shrimp
Pat the shrimp very dry and season with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sear
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp in one layer for 1 to 2 minutes per side; transfer to a plate as soon as they turn opaque.

Step 3: Make the sauce
Lower the heat. Add butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Finish
Stir in lemon juice and zest. Return shrimp to the pan and toss for 30 to 60 seconds.

Step 5: Serve
Remove from the heat, sprinkle with parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

How to Store Leftovers
Cool Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp promptly and refrigerate it in a shallow covered container. Use seafood leftovers within 2 to 3 days and keep fresh garnishes separate.
How to Reheat
Reheat Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp in a covered skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of its sauce or water only when needed and stop once hot.
What to Serve With It
- Rice or pasta
- Crusty bread
- Roasted asparagus
- A green salad
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- For Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, crowding the pan and steaming the ingredients.
- For Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp, adding sugar, garlic, or dairy over excessive heat.
- Continuing to cook after the sauce has reduced enough.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 285 |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 3g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Sugar | 1g |
Nutrition is an estimate and can vary with brands, portion size, and substitutions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the shrimp in Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp tender?
Stop cooking when the shrimp turn opaque and form relaxed C-shapes; tightly curled shrimp are usually overcooked.
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