Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

Easy but delicious shrimp sautéed in a garlic butter sauce are the perfect 15-minute entree you’ve been looking for! This dish is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, savory sauce that perfectly complements the succulent shrimp. Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside mashed potatoes, you’re sure to impress with this simple yet elegant dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 15 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The garlic butter sauce elevates the dish with a rich and savory flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a customizable meal.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish at your next gathering for a restaurant-quality experience at home.
• Healthy Choice: With shrimp as the main ingredient, this recipe is high in protein and low in carbs.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools listed below. Having the right equipment on hand can enhance your efficiency in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for cooking the shrimp evenly without overcrowding.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly and efficiently before cooking.

Ingredients

For the Garlic Butter Sauce

• ½ cup butter (softened, not hot)
• ½ tablespoon minced garlic
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¾ teaspoon salt

For the Shrimp

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil (avocado oil, extra-virgin olive oil, etc.)
• 1 pound medium or large shrimp (peeled, deveined)
• Salt (to taste)
• Freshly cracked black pepper (to taste)

For Deglazing

• ½ cup dry white apple vinegar (or chicken broth)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Suggested Sides

• Prepared angel hair pasta
• Mashed potatoes
• Steamed white rice

How to Make Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Butter Mixture

1. Add softened butter, minced garlic, garlic powder, and salt to a small bowl.
2. Mix with a whisk or fork until all ingredients are fully combined.
3. Set the bowl aside.

Step 2: Heat the Skillet

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Once warm, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil.
3. Swirl the pan occasionally to coat the bottom until the oil is hot and shimmery.

Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp

1. Place shrimp in the skillet without overlapping them; cook in batches if necessary.
2. Sauté shrimp for 1 minute undisturbed.
3. Quickly flip each shrimp over and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until cooked through.
4. Transfer cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

1. Reduce heat under the skillet to medium-low.
2. Pour white apple vinegar into the skillet; use a spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom.
3. Simmer vinegar for 4 to 5 minutes until reduced by half.

Step 5: Combine Everything Together

1. Lower heat under skillet to low.
2. Add prepared garlic butter mixture and chopped parsley (if using) into skillet.
3. Stir gently until butter is melted and incorporated into apple vinegar.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

1. Remove skillet from heat.
2. Return sautéed shrimp to skillet; spoon garlic butter sauce over shrimp until well coated.
3. Divide into preferred portions; serve immediately with sides of choice and additional garlic butter sauce if desired.

Enjoy your delightful Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce!

How to Serve Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

Sautéed shrimp in garlic butter sauce is a versatile dish that can be paired with various sides for a delightful meal. Here are some serving suggestions that elevate your dining experience.

With Pasta

• Angel Hair Pasta: Toss the shrimp and garlic butter sauce with angel hair pasta for a light yet fulfilling dish.
• Fettuccine: Use fettuccine for a heartier option, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to the pasta.

On Rice

• Steamed White Rice: Serve the shrimp over fluffy steamed rice, absorbing the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
• Coconut Rice: For an exotic twist, pair it with coconut rice for a creamy and aromatic flavor.

Accompanied by Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and crunch while complementing the richness of the shrimp.
• Grilled Asparagus: The smoky flavor of grilled asparagus pairs well with the garlic butter, creating a balanced plate.

How to Perfect Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

To ensure your sautéed shrimp in garlic butter sauce is perfect every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp ensures better texture and flavor compared to frozen varieties.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches to avoid steaming them; this helps achieve that perfect sear.
• Check for doneness: Shrimp should be opaque and slightly curled into a J shape when fully cooked.
• Adjust seasoning as needed: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more salt or pepper based on your preference.
• Experiment with herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the flavor profile; don’t hesitate to try different herbs!
• Serve immediately: For best results, serve the dish right after cooking to enjoy shrimp at their juiciest.

Best Side Dishes for Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

Pair your sautéed shrimp in garlic butter sauce with these delicious side dishes for a complete meal. Each option complements the flavors of the dish wonderfully.

1. Garlic Bread: This classic side is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad adds freshness and crunch, balancing the rich flavors of the shrimp.
3. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes provide a hearty contrast, making each bite satisfying.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with vegetables adds nutrition and texture without overshadowing the shrimp.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with rich dishes like garlic butter shrimp.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob brings a summery vibe and complements seafood perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Sautéing shrimp can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid for perfect Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce.

• Using Cold Shrimp: If your shrimp are still cold from the fridge, they won’t cook evenly. Always thaw shrimp in advance and pat them dry before cooking.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Placing too many shrimp in the skillet at once can lead to steaming instead of sautéing. Cook shrimp in batches if necessary to ensure they sear properly.
• Not Monitoring Cooking Time: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can lead to rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them, cooking for just a few minutes until they are opaque and curled.
• Skipping the Deglazing Step: Not deglazing the pan can result in a lack of flavor. Use apple vinegar or broth to scrape up those tasty bits for a rich sauce.
• Forgetting Seasoning Adjustments: Always taste your dish before serving. Adding more salt or pepper at the end can enhance the overall flavor of your garlic butter sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Sautéed shrimp can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

• Place cooled shrimp in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread shrimp on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them properly before cooking for even results.

How do I know when my shrimp are done?

Shrimp are cooked when they turn opaque white or lightly pink and curl into a J shape.

What should I serve with Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce?

This dish pairs well with angel hair pasta, mashed potatoes, or steamed rice for a complete meal.

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to create a heartier dish.

Final Thoughts

The appeal of Sautéed Shrimp in Garlic Butter Sauce lies in its simplicity and delicious flavor profile. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet elegant enough for special occasions. Experiment with different sides or add-ins like veggies or spices to make it your own!