I enjoy this recipe because it is fast, simple, and packed with flavor. The garlic butter sauce coats the shrimp perfectly, while the spice adds just the right amount of heat.
I also like that this dish works for busy weeknights, appetizers, or even a special dinner served with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
500 g shrimp, peeled and deveined 4 tbsp butter 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 tbsp olive oil 1 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper 1/2 tsp chili flakes salt black pepper 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh parsley
Directions
I pat the shrimp dry and season them with paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper.
I heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat until the butter melts.
I add the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure it does not burn.
I place the shrimp in the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until pink and fully cooked.
I sprinkle in the chili flakes and add the lemon juice. I stir everything together so the shrimp become coated in the spicy garlic butter sauce.
I finish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.
I sometimes add parmesan cheese for extra richness.
For a creamier sauce, I stir in a splash of heavy cream near the end of cooking.
I also enjoy serving the shrimp over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a more filling meal.
storage/reheating
I store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
I reheat the shrimp gently in a skillet over low heat with a little butter to keep them juicy.
I avoid overcooking during reheating because shrimp can become rubbery very quickly.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, I thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking.
How spicy is this recipe?
I find it moderately spicy, but I can easily reduce or increase the cayenne pepper and chili flakes.
What size shrimp works best?
I prefer large or jumbo shrimp because they stay juicy and tender during cooking.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, I replace the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
What can I serve with spicy garlic butter shrimp?
I like serving it with rice, pasta, vegetables, or toasted bread to soak up the sauce.
Conclusion
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp is a fast and satisfying recipe filled with bold garlic flavor, rich buttery sauce, and a spicy kick. I love making this dish when I want something simple, comforting, and packed with flavor.
Juicy shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce with the perfect touch of spice. A quick and flavorful seafood recipe perfect for lunch or dinner.
Author:Ella
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:10 minutes
Total Time:20 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Ingredients
1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season with paprika, cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and lightly golden. Remove from the skillet.
Reduce heat to medium and add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss in the garlic butter sauce.
Add lemon juice and fresh parsley, then stir well.
Serve immediately with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.
Notes
Do not overcook the shrimp or they may become rubbery. Adjust the spice level by adding more or less cayenne pepper and chili flakes.
