Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet Easy and Flavorful Meal

Looking for an easy and tasty meal? Let me show you how to make a Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet that bursts with flavor. This dish takes just a few ingredients and steps to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or impressing guests, this recipe will shine. With juicy shrimp, fresh spinach, and a zesty lemon finish, you won’t want to miss out on this quick delight!
Ingredients
To make a delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet, you will need these simple ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Each ingredient plays a key role in creating this dish. The shrimp give the meal its protein, while the garlic adds a rich flavor. The butter helps make everything creamy and smooth. Lemon juice brings brightness, and smoked paprika adds a nice depth. Red pepper flakes give it a little kick, but you can adjust that to your taste.
Cherry tomatoes and spinach not only add color but also freshness. The salt and pepper enhance all the flavors. Finally, parsley is perfect for garnish, making the dish look pretty. Don’t forget the lemon wedges for serving! They add a zesty touch when you squeeze them on top.
Gather these ingredients, and you are ready to create a meal that is both easy and full of flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Step 1: Warm the skillet and melt butter.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, swirling to coat the skillet.
– Step 2: Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
Once the butter melts, add 4 cloves of finely minced garlic. Stir frequently for about 1 minute until it smells great.
– Step 3: Add spices to enhance flavor.
Mix in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds to wake up the spices.
Cooking the Shrimp
– Step 4: Add shrimp and season for cooking.
Add 1 lb of peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
– Step 5: Remove shrimp and set aside.
When the shrimp are fully cooked, take them out of the skillet. Place them on a plate to keep warm.
Finalizing the Dish
– Step 6: Sauté cherry tomatoes in the same skillet.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Sauté for about 2 minutes until they soften and release their juices.
– Step 7: Add baby spinach and return shrimp.
Add 2 cups of fresh baby spinach to the skillet. Stir until it wilts down, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet.
– Step 8: Drizzle with lemon juice and serve.
Squeeze 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice over the dish. Toss gently to combine, allowing it to warm for 1 more minute. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
– Make sure shrimp cook evenly. This gives you the best flavor and texture.
– Adjust spice levels for your taste. Add more red pepper flakes for heat or less for mild.
Serving Suggestions
– Serve garlic butter shrimp right after cooking. This keeps it fresh and hot.
– Pair with rice for a filling meal or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
You can switch up the shrimp for scallops or chicken. Both options cook well and add their own flavor. If you want a different taste, try fresh herbs like basil or dill. These herbs can really brighten the dish.
Dietary Adjustments
To make this dish gluten-free, just check the labels on your butter and spices. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter. If you prefer a vegetarian meal, swap the shrimp for mushrooms and zucchini. They soak up flavors well and give a hearty bite.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container. Keep the shrimp in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat. This helps keep the shrimp tender. You can also add a splash of water or broth to help with moisture.
Freezing
Yes, garlic butter shrimp can be frozen. To freeze, let the shrimp cool completely. Place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. Label the bag with the date. For best quality, use within three months. When ready to eat, thaw the shrimp in the fridge overnight. Then, reheat gently in a skillet. This keeps the flavor fresh and delicious.
FAQs
Common Questions
How long do you cook shrimp in a skillet?
You cook shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side. They turn pink and opaque when done.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them before cooking. This helps them cook evenly.
What can I substitute for garlic?
If you don’t have garlic, try using shallots or garlic powder. Both add a nice flavor.
Is garlic butter shrimp healthy?
Garlic butter shrimp can be healthy. Shrimp are low in calories and high in protein. Just watch the butter amount for calories.
This blog post detailed a simple and tasty garlic butter shrimp recipe. We covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You can enjoy this dish with various sides or make swaps for different diets. Don’t forget to try variations like chicken or veggies! Following these steps ensures a great meal every time. Keep leftovers safe with proper storage. Now, you’re ready to make a delicious dish that impresses every guest. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
