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Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet in 15 Minutes – Easy One Pan Dinner

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A quick and easy one-pan garlic butter shrimp skillet that comes together in under 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish features tender shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce with a squeeze of lemon.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or frozen, thawed)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Juice of ½ lemon, plus more for serving
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • Cooked rice, pasta, or crusty bread (for serving, optional)
  • Extra lemon wedges (for serving, optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the shrimp: If using frozen shrimp, thaw under cold running water for 5 minutes. Pat completely dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss shrimp with paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
  2. Heat the pan: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Swirl until butter melts and starts to foam.
  3. Sear the shrimp: Add shrimp to the pan in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Cook for 2 minutes without moving, then flip and cook for another 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque. Transfer to a plate.
  4. Make the garlic butter: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add minced garlic and stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Bring it all together: Return shrimp to the pan along with any juices. Squeeze lemon juice over everything, toss to coat, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
  6. Serve immediately: Spoon shrimp and sauce over rice, pasta, or alongside crusty bread. Add extra lemon wedges and garnish with more parsley if desired.

Notes

Pat shrimp dry thoroughly for best sear. Watch garlic carefully to avoid burning. Serve immediately for best texture. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days; reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or water.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, one pan dinner, easy weeknight dinner, shrimp skillet, 15 minute meal