Buttered Shrimp Recipe – Quick, Flavorful & Family-Friendly

If you’re craving a dish that’s both quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, you’ve just found your new favorite go-to: this buttered shrimp recipe. It’s the perfect blend of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and velvety butter, all brought together in under 20 minutes.

Whether you’re planning a busy weeknight dinner, hosting a last-minute gathering, or just treating yourself to something special, this dish delivers with elegance and ease. Best of all, it’s incredibly adaptable—you can serve it with rice, toss it with pasta, or enjoy it solo with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that golden sauce.

And because it uses simple, wholesome ingredients, this buttered shrimp recipe fits a wide range of dietary preferences. It’s naturally gluten-free, low in carbs, and can be made dairy-free with plant-based butter—making it a reliable crowd-pleaser for nearly any table. If you love buttery shrimp flavors, you’ll definitely want to try our Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna. It’s indulgent, comforting, and perfect for date night or guests.

Why You’ll Love This Buttered Shrimp Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings.

• Versatile: Serve over rice, pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

• Flavor-Packed: The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a mouthwatering experience.

• Customizable: Adjust the heat with chili flakes or add herbs like parsley for a fresh twist.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Optional: chili flakes, chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

3. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.

4. Add Butter & Lemon: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and lemon juice. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of chili flakes if desired. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions – Elevate Your Buttered Shrimp Experience

One of the best things about this buttered shrimp recipe is its ability to complement a wide variety of dishes. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner or serving guests, here are three delicious ways to enjoy your garlic butter shrimp that suit any occasion:

🍝 Over Pasta

For a comforting, restaurant-style meal, toss your freshly cooked buttered shrimp with a bowl of:

• Spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine

• Add a drizzle of olive oil or extra lemon-butter sauce

• Finish with chopped parsley or grated parmesan (optional)

This combo transforms your shrimp into an indulgent seafood pasta dish—quick, elegant, and filling.

🍚 With Rice

Let the rich sauce do double duty as a topping for:

• Steamed jasmine or basmati rice

• Brown rice for a wholesome, nutty alternative

• Add a side of stir-fried greens or grilled vegetables for balance

This is perfect for an easy weekday lunch or dinner that’s flavorful, fuss-free, and satisfying.

For a spicier, low-carb version of shrimp, check out this spicy shrimp avocado rice bowl.

🥖 As an Appetizer

Make your buttered shrimp the star of a starter spread:

• Serve in a shallow dish with a generous amount of buttery sauce

• Pair with toasted baguette slices, garlic bread, or crusty sourdough

• Provide cocktail picks or skewers for party-style serving

This version is ideal for entertaining—simple yet impressive.

Pair your buttered shrimp with this light and tasty garlic butter asparagus orzo for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating Tips – Keep Your Buttered Shrimp Delicious

Leftover buttered shrimp can be just as enjoyable the next day—if stored and reheated properly. To maintain its tender texture and savory flavor, follow these simple storage guidelines:

✅ Refrigeration

• Allow the shrimp to cool slightly before storing.

• Transfer to an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and odor absorption.

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

• For best quality, store the butter sauce and shrimp together to keep them moist.

🔥 Reheating

• Reheat gently in a nonstick skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.

• Add a splash of water or a small knob of butter to re-emulsify the sauce if needed.

• Avoid microwaving—shrimp are delicate and can easily become rubbery when overheated.

This method ensures your leftovers remain juicy, flavorful, and as enjoyable as when freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions before diving into this flavorful buttered shrimp recipe? Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries to help you get it just right the first time.

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?

A: Yes, definitely! Frozen shrimp are a convenient and budget-friendly option. Just be sure to:

• Thaw them completely—overnight in the fridge or under cold running water.

• Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.

• This prevents splattering and ensures the shrimp sear instead of steam in the pan.

Q2: How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

A: Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking is the most common issue. Follow these tips:

• Cook on medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side.

• Shrimp are done when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a “C” shape.

• Remove them from the pan immediately to avoid carryover cooking.

Q3: Can I add vegetables to this dish?

A: Absolutely! Adding veggies not only boosts the nutrition but also enhances flavor and color. Try:

• Bell peppers for sweetness and crunch

• Zucchini for a mild, tender bite

• Spinach for a leafy green element that wilts perfectly into the sauce

Sauté veggies first, remove them, then cook the shrimp in the same pan to layer flavor.

Final Thoughts

This buttered shrimp recipe is a shining example of how a few simple, high-quality ingredients can transform into a dish that’s both elegant and soul-satisfying. From the rich, velvety butter to the perfectly sautéed shrimp and aromatic garlic, each bite is a reminder that great cooking doesn’t need to be complicated.

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, hosting guests, or just want something quick and flavorful for a weeknight meal, this dish always delivers—beautifully and effortlessly.

✨ Best of all, it’s flexible. Add vegetables, spice it up, or pair it with your favorite sides—it’s a recipe you’ll come back to time and time again.

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