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Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet: 15-Minute Easy Dinner

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This quick garlic butter shrimp skillet comes together in just 15 minutes with simple ingredients. Perfectly seared shrimp in a rich garlic butter sauce that’s ideal for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (raw, tail-on or off)
  • Β½ teaspoon salt
  • ΒΌ teaspoon black pepper
  • ΒΌ teaspoon paprika
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
  • ΒΌ cup chicken broth (or white wine)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (plus more for garnish)
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp completely dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, and paprika until evenly coated.
  2. Place your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Let it heat until it shimmers β€” about 60 seconds.
  3. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd β€” if your pan is small, cook in two batches. Let them cook undisturbed for 90 seconds. Flip each shrimp and cook for another 60-90 seconds until opaque and cooked through. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the same skillet β€” it should melt and sizzle gently. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Don’t let the garlic brown.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan with your spatula. Let it bubble for about 60 seconds until slightly reduced.
  6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Toss to coat in the sauce. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and give everything a final stir. Remove from heat immediately.
  7. Transfer to a serving platter or plates. Spoon any remaining sauce over the top. Garnish with extra parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

Pat shrimp extremely dry for best sear. Don’t overcrowd the pan. Watch garlic closely to prevent burning. Serve immediately for best texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, quick shrimp skillet, easy shrimp recipe, 15-minute dinner, weeknight dinner, shrimp recipe