Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp

Name: Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Lemon wedges, for serving

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore whipping up this Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp for a cozy dinner. The aroma of garlic sautéing in butter fills the kitchen, instantly elevating the atmosphere. I often serve this dish with some crusty bread to soak up the rich, buttery sauce. It’s not only indulgent but also surprisingly easy to prepare. Trust me, this dish is a surefire way to impress your loved one and create lasting memories over a beautifully set table.

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:16:20.814Z

When we made this Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp for the first time, we were blown away by how quickly it transformed a simple evening into something special. Using fresh shrimp is key; they soak up the garlic butter beautifully, creating an incredible flavor. I recommend providing a light squeeze of lemon juice at the end to cut through the richness; it makes such a difference!

We’ve also experimented with adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of spice, which has quickly become a favorite in our household. It’s amazing how a few simple ingredients can turn into a gourmet experience.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible garlic butter sauce that elevates the shrimp's natural sweetness
Quick and easy preparation that gives you more time to enjoy your evening
Versatile for any occasion, be it a romantic dinner or a casual gathering

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undeniably the shrimp. Choosing the right type can significantly enhance the experience; I recommend going for large, fresh shrimp, preferably with the shell on, as they tend to be juicier. If you want to save time, however, opt for peeled and deveined shrimp from your local market. Additionally, ensure your shrimp are truly fresh by checking for a mild scent and a firm texture.

Butter plays a crucial role in this recipe, contributing to that indulgent garlic butter sauce. I prefer using unsalted butter as it allows you to control the saltiness of the dish better. Alternatively, you can experiment with flavored butters for a unique twist. For an added depth of flavor, consider incorporating a dash of white wine or lemon juice into the sauce while the shrimp cook.

Perfecting the Technique

Sautéing garlic can be tricky; it can quickly go from perfectly fragrant to bitter in seconds. To avoid this, make sure your oil is heated over medium heat and not higher, as you want to gently release the flavors without burning. Keep an eye on the garlic, stirring frequently until it becomes a light golden color—this indicates that it is ready for the shrimp.

When cooking the shrimp, ensure that the skillet isn't crowded. If there are too many shrimp in the pan, they may steam instead of sear, preventing that desirable golden exterior. Cooking them for 2-3 minutes on each side should yield the perfect consistency—just ensure they aren't overcooked, resulting in a rubbery texture. They should be pink and opaque when done, signaling that they are safe to eat.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving

With your ingredients ready, you're set to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Finish the Sauce

Remove the skillet from heat and add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and chopped parsley. Toss everything together to coat the shrimp in the buttery sauce.

Serve

Plate the shrimp and drizzle with any remaining sauce. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp with a glass of wine!

Pro Tips

For an added kick, consider adding a splash of white wine while cooking the shrimp for a more complex flavor.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. To reheat, gently warm the shrimp in a skillet over low heat, adding a touch of butter to revive the sauce and prevent drying out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the shrimp, leading to an undesirable texture.

For a make-ahead option, prepare the garlic butter sauce and store it separately from the shrimp. When you're ready to serve, quickly sauté the shrimp and combine them with the pre-made sauce for an easy and quick dinner option without compromising flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This Romantic Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic touch, serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or pasta, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains. Alternatively, a fresh garden salad can add a light, crisp contrast to the richness of the dish.

If you want to take the indulgence up a notch, add a splash of cream to the garlic butter sauce for a luxurious finish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can also enhance the flavor with a bit of heat. Don’t forget to serve some crusty bread on the side to help soak up the leftover sauce—it's a must!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This shrimp pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, pasta, or crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients and cook just before serving for optimal flavor.