Looking for a quick and tasty meal? One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp brings bold flavors to your table in under 30 minutes! This dish uses simple ingredients and just one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining friends, this shrimp recipe is sure to impress. Let me show you how to whip up this mouth-watering meal with ease! Ready to dive in?
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh lemon juice creates a rich, savory sauce that enhances the shrimp and vegetables.
- One-Pan Wonder: Cooking everything in one skillet means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal with family or friends.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level and add your favorite vegetables to make this dish your own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
For this dish, you’ll need:
– 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust based on spice preference)
– 1 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
These main ingredients come together to create a tasty garlic butter sauce. The shrimp provide a sweet and tender bite, while the garlic adds a rich aroma.
Optional Ingredients
You can also include:
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup spinach leaves
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
The cherry tomatoes add a pop of color and sweetness. The spinach brings a fresh, green touch. These veggies balance the richness of the butter.
Nutritional Information
This dish serves four people. Each serving has:
– Calories: about 360
– Protein: 30g
– Fat: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
This meal is high in protein, making it great for a quick dinner. The fats come mainly from butter, so enjoy in moderation.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Shrimp
Start with one pound of large shrimp. Peel and devein them if needed. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry. This step keeps the shrimp juicy and helps with cooking. Season the shrimp lightly with salt and pepper. Set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
Cooking the Garlic and Shrimp
Grab a large skillet and melt two tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Add four minced garlic cloves and one teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir this mix for about one minute. You want it to smell great but not burn. Then, turn the heat up to high and add the shrimp. Cook them for two to three minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, take them out of the skillet and set them aside.
Adding Vegetables and Finishing Touches
In the same skillet, add two more tablespoons of butter and one teaspoon of olive oil. Once melted, toss in one cup of halved cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about two minutes until they soften. Next, add one cup of fresh spinach leaves and sauté for one minute. The spinach should wilt quickly. Return the shrimp to the skillet and squeeze in the juice of one lemon. Stir everything together and cook for one more minute. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Flavor
To get the best garlic taste, use fresh garlic. Mince it well for even cooking. Sauté the garlic briefly. You want it fragrant, not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter. If you love garlic, feel free to add more cloves.
Adjusting Spice Levels
To change the heat, play with red pepper flakes. Start with one teaspoon. If you like it hotter, add more. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra kick. Always taste as you go to find your perfect level.
Serving Suggestions
This dish looks great on a big plate. Add fresh parsley on top for color. Lemon wedges add a bright touch. Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce. You can also pair it with rice or pasta for a hearty meal.
Pro Tips
- Shrimp Freshness: Always use fresh or properly thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor. Frozen shrimp should be thawed in the refrigerator overnight for optimal results.
- Garlic Cooking: Watch the garlic closely while sautéing to prevent it from burning. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste to your dish.
- Spice Adjustment: Tailor the amount of red pepper flakes to your spice preference. Start with less and add more if needed, especially if serving to guests.
- Serving Suggestions: To enhance the meal, consider serving the shrimp over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside a light salad for a refreshing contrast.
Variations
Substitutions for Shrimp
You can swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Both options work well in this dish. If you use chicken, cut it into small pieces. Cook it until it is no longer pink. Tofu should be firm and cubed. Sauté until golden for great texture.
Adding More Vegetables
Feel free to add any veggies you love. Bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus add color and crunch. You can also use broccoli or green beans for more variety. Just make sure to cook them until tender. This makes the dish even healthier and more filling.
Flavor Variations with Herbs
Herbs can change the taste of your dish. Try adding fresh basil or thyme for a different twist. You can also use dill or cilantro for a fresh flavor. Just sprinkle them in at the end for the best taste.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
You can store One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to three days. Before you store it, let it cool down. If you want the best taste, eat it sooner rather than later.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, first, cool the shrimp dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge.
Reheating Best Practices
Reheat the shrimp in a skillet over medium heat. This keeps the shrimp tender and flavorful. Stir often to avoid burning. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in short bursts to prevent overcooking. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them first. Place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. After thawing, pat them dry with a paper towel. This helps them cook evenly. Using frozen shrimp can save time when fresh shrimp is not available.
How do I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, swap the butter for a plant-based alternative. Use olive oil or coconut oil instead. Both work well and add rich flavor. You can also find dairy-free butter at many grocery stores. This way, you keep the creamy taste without dairy.
What can I serve with One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This shrimp dish pairs well with several sides. Here are some ideas:
– Crusty bread to soak up the sauce
– Steamed rice for a hearty base
– Pasta for a quick twist
– A fresh green salad for crunch
Each option adds a nice touch to your meal.
This article covered all you need for a tasty One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp dish. We discussed key ingredients, cooking steps, and tips for great flavor. Remember, you can adjust spice levels and try different veggies. Don’t forget the storage tips for leftovers. Cooking doesn’t have to be hard; it can be fun! I hope these ideas inspire you to create your own garlic shrimp masterpiece. Enjoy every bite and share your dish with family and friend
