Irresistible Lemon Butter Shrimp – A Quick, Elegant Dinner You’ll Crave
If you’re on the hunt for a quick, mouthwatering seafood dish that tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant, look no further than this Lemon Butter Shrimp recipe. Perfectly seared shrimp swimming in a silky lemon butter garlic sauce—it’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet is incredibly easy to make in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, impressing guests, or simply treating yourself after a long day, this dish delivers elegance and comfort in every bite.
This recipe is tailor-made for seafood lovers, busy weeknight cooks, or anyone who wants to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort. With a short ingredient list and a foolproof technique, even beginner cooks will shine with this dish. The flavor profile is zesty, buttery, garlicky, and just spicy enough to make your taste buds dance. Let’s dive into why this Lemon Butter Shrimp deserves a spot in your weekly rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Butter Shrimp
- Ready in 20 minutes – From prep to plate, this recipe is lightning-fast.
- Elegant yet easy – Looks and tastes gourmet, but uses pantry staples.
- Customizable – Easily adjust heat, swap proteins, or go low-carb.
- Crowd-pleaser – A hit with seafood lovers and picky eaters alike.
- Perfect for pairing – Goes beautifully with bread, pasta, rice, or wine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for desired heat)
- ¼ cup chicken broth or white wine
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt to taste
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large cast-iron skillet or sauté pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Tongs or spatula
- Citrus juicer (optional but helpful)
- Paper towels (for drying shrimp)
How to Make Lemon Butter Shrimp – Step-by-Step
1. Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to help them sear properly. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika until evenly coated. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes while you heat the pan.
2. Cook the Shrimp
Heat your cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, arrange shrimp in a single layer—cook in batches to avoid crowding. Sear shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce
Lower the heat to medium. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth or white wine. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning.
4. Combine and Serve
Return the shrimp to the skillet, gently tossing to coat them in the luscious lemon butter sauce. Cook for 1 additional minute to warm through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately—preferably straight from the skillet for that rustic, cozy feel.
Recipe Tips & Shortcuts
- Use pre-peeled and deveined shrimp to save time.
- Don’t skip drying the shrimp—moisture prevents proper searing.
- Deglaze with white wine for a more sophisticated, acidic flavor.
- Add extra garlic if you’re a garlic lover—this recipe welcomes it.
- Finish with lemon zest for a bolder citrus kick.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein Swap: Not a shrimp fan? Use scallops, chunks of white fish, or even chicken tenders.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Make It Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end.
- Boost the Veggies: Toss in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus during the last minute of cooking.
Food & Drink Pairings
Best Sides:
- Crusty sourdough bread or garlic baguette
- Lemon or herb-infused rice
- Creamy mashed potatoes
- Angel hair pasta or linguine
- Steamed asparagus or green beans
Ideal Wine Pairing:
- White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Pinot Grigio
- Sparkling: A dry Prosecco works well for special occasions
For a non-alcoholic option, try lemon-lime sparkling water with a splash of elderflower syrup for a refreshing, fragrant twist.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Storage:
- Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Keep the sauce separate if possible to maintain the shrimp’s texture.
Reheating:
- Gently reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce.
- Avoid microwaving for too long as shrimp can become rubbery.
Freezing:
- Not recommended, as shrimp can lose their tender texture when frozen and reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw and pat them dry completely before seasoning and cooking.
What’s the best way to juice lemons?
Use a handheld citrus juicer for efficiency and to catch seeds. If you’re in a rush, bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for flavor.
Can I make this ahead of time?
The sauce can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days. For best results, cook the shrimp fresh just before serving.
What if I don’t have a cast-iron skillet?
No problem. Use a heavy-bottomed stainless-steel or nonstick skillet instead. Just ensure it gets hot enough to sear the shrimp properly.
Is this dish spicy?
The red pepper flakes add mild heat. Reduce or omit them if you’re sensitive to spice, or add extra for a fiery version.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Butter Shrimp recipe proves that you don’t need complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen to create a show-stopping seafood dish. It’s the kind of meal that brings people together around the table, prompting compliments and requests for seconds. With its bright, buttery flavors and versatility, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or a beginner trying to build confidence, this is one recipe that guarantees success and satisfaction.
