Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce Recipe

This Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a quick and easy seafood dish packed with flavor, perfect for dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed in garlic butter sauce made from butter, garlic, white wine, and a touch of parsley. It’s ideal for serving over angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice, making it a versatile choice for any meal. The garlic butter adds a rich, savory taste that complements the shrimp, while the white wine helps to create a delicious sauce that’s both aromatic and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for seafood lovers and anyone looking for a simple shrimp dinner that’s both elegant and easy to make.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter:

• ½ cup butter (softened, not melted)
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt

For the Shrimp:

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (e.g., avocado oil, extra-virgin olive oil)
• 1 pound medium or large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)
• ½ cup dry white wine (or chicken broth, see Notes)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Serving Suggestions (All Optional):

• Prepared angel hair pasta
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed white rice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly with a whisk or fork until well combined. Set aside.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is warm, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil and swirl the pan to coat the bottom evenly. Heat the oil until it becomes hot and shimmery. Add shrimp to the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Sauté the shrimp undisturbed for 1 minute, then flip them quickly and sauté for an additional 30 seconds. Cooked shrimp will turn opaque white (or pink) and curl into a “J” shape. Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside. Repeat this step for any remaining batches of shrimp.
3. Deglaze the Pan: Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour the white wine into the skillet. Use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 4-5 minutes until it reduces by half.
4. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: Lower the heat to low and add the prepared garlic butter and chopped parsley (if using) to the skillet. Stir gently until the butter is fully melted and incorporated into the wine.
5. Combine and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and return the sautéed shrimp to the pan. Spoon the garlic butter sauce over the shrimp to coat them evenly. Divide the shrimp into portions and serve immediately with your choice of sides, such as angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice. Drizzle additional garlic butter sauce over the shrimp for extra flavor.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute meals.
• Versatile: Pairs beautifully with pasta, rice, or veggies for a complete meal.
• Restaurant Quality: The rich garlic butter sauce elevates the shrimp to a gourmet level.
• Customizable: Adjust the seasonings or swap ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly; remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque and curl.
• Deglaze Properly: Scraping the browned bits from the skillet adds depth and flavor to the sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
• Serve Immediately: This dish tastes best when served hot, right after cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

• Protein Options: Swap shrimp for scallops, chicken, or even tofu for a different take.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly meal.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of heat.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use vegan butter for a dairy-free version of the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure the shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the skillet.

What can I use instead of white wine?
Chicken broth is a great substitute that still provides a flavorful sauce.

How do I know when the shrimp are done?
Cooked shrimp will turn opaque white or pink and curl into a “J” shape. Overcooked shrimp will curl tightly into an “O” shape and may become rubbery.

Serving

Pair this Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce with your choice of angel hair pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed rice. Add a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Suggestions

• Garnish with extra parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a burst of freshness.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy this delightful Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce, perfect for any occasion!