Effortless Garlic Butter Parmesan Sauteed Shrimp: Your Quick & Delicious Weeknight Meal
Prepare to be amazed by these incredibly juicy and plump sauteed shrimp, bursting with flavor from a generous seasoning blend and lavishly coated in a delectable garlic butter and Parmesan sauce. This recipe is not just quick and easy, but it consistently delivers shrimp that are perfectly tender, making it an ideal choice for a speedy weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for guests. Say goodbye to dry, rubbery shrimp and hello to perfectly cooked seafood that will become a regular in your culinary repertoire.
Why This Sauteed Shrimp Recipe Is a Must-Try
This sauteed shrimp recipe truly stands out for several compelling reasons. Firstly, its incredible ease of preparation means you can have a gourmet-tasting dish on your table in mere minutes. It’s so quick, in fact, that it rivals the speed of even air fryer shrimp, but with the added depth of flavor that only a skillet can provide. The direct heat of the skillet creates the perfect golden-brown crust on the shrimp, giving them a delightful texture contrast while maintaining their inherent tenderness. As they cook, you’ll witness those beautiful bright pink and red hues emerge, signaling perfection.
But the true magic of this recipe lies in its sauce. A rich blend of garlic butter, finely minced shallots, and savory Parmesan cheese transforms simple sauteed shrimp into an extraordinary culinary experience. The shallots add a subtle, sweet oniony note that complements the robust garlic, while the Parmesan provides a salty, umami kick that makes the sauce utterly irresistible. This combination drapes each succulent shrimp in a glossy, flavorful coating, ensuring every bite is moist, supple, and packed with taste. Whether you’re serving it as an elegant appetizer or a satisfying main course, this garlic butter Parmesan sauteed shrimp recipe is guaranteed to impress with its simplicity and exquisite flavor profile.
Ingredients You Will Need for Garlic Butter Parmesan Shrimp
Below is a list of the key ingredients required for this mouthwatering dish. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the printable recipe card available at the conclusion of this post. We encourage you to read through the ingredient information and substitution suggestions to optimize your cooking experience.
Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions
- SHRIMP: For the best results, we recommend using raw jumbo shrimp that are already peeled and deveined. This saves a lot of prep time. Ensure they are explicitly labeled “raw” and not “pre-cooked,” as pre-cooked shrimp will become rubbery if cooked again. If you’re using frozen shrimp, it’s crucial to thaw them completely before cooking. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels; any excess moisture will steam the shrimp instead of searing them, preventing that beautiful golden crust and hindering the seasoning from adhering properly. We prefer to keep the tails on because they make for a convenient handle, especially when dipping. However, if you prefer, you can certainly remove the tails before cooking. Feel free to use different sizes of shrimp, just adjust your cooking time accordingly – smaller shrimp cook faster, larger ones take a little longer.
- BUTTER: Unsalted butter is generally preferred in recipes as it gives you full control over the saltiness of your dish. If you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of garlic salt used in the seasoning blend. Butter provides richness and helps create that desirable golden crust on the shrimp, as well as forming the base of our luscious sauce.
- GARLIC: Freshly minced garlic is always best for maximum flavor. While jarred minced garlic can be used in a pinch, fresh garlic offers a more vibrant and pungent aroma that truly elevates the dish.
- SHALLOTS: These provide a milder, sweeter, and more delicate onion flavor compared to regular onions. They caramelize beautifully in butter and contribute significantly to the depth of the garlic butter sauce. If you don’t have shallots, a very small amount of finely minced sweet onion (like Vidalia) could be a substitute, but use sparingly.
- PARMESAN CHEESE: For the ultimate flavor and melt-in-your-mouth texture, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Pre-grated Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can make it clump and not melt as smoothly into the sauce. The nutty, salty notes of Parmesan are essential for the sauce’s irresistible appeal.
- SEASONINGS (Paprika, Garlic Salt, Freshly Ground Black Pepper): This simple trio forms the backbone of flavor for the shrimp itself. Paprika adds a lovely color and a subtle sweetness, garlic salt reinforces the savory garlic notes, and freshly ground black pepper provides a hint of warmth and pungency. You can experiment with adding a pinch of onion powder, a dash of cayenne pepper for a little heat, or a sprinkle of dried Italian herbs for a different twist.
How to Make Perfectly Sauteed Garlic Butter Parmesan Shrimp
These step-by-step photos and instructions are here to guide you visually through the process of making this recipe. For a complete printable version, including all measurements and detailed instructions, please Jump to Recipe at the bottom of this post.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce: In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, minced garlic, minced shallot, and grated Parmesan. Microwave for short intervals (e.g., 20-30 seconds) until the butter is fully melted and the ingredients are well incorporated. Stir well and set this aromatic sauce aside. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Pat Shrimp Dry: Thoroughly pat the shrimp dry on both sides using paper towels. This crucial step removes excess moisture, which is key to achieving a beautiful sear and preventing the shrimp from steaming in the pan.
- Season the Shrimp: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Generously sprinkle this seasoning blend over both sides of the dried shrimp. Ensure each shrimp is evenly coated for maximum flavor.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Once the butter starts to foam and turns a light golden color, carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 3 minutes on one side until they begin to turn pink and opaque. Then, flip the shrimp and cook for another 3 minutes. The shrimp will curl up into a “C” shape and develop those characteristic bright pink and red hues, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Avoid overcooking!
- Toss with Sauce and Serve: Immediately pour the prepared garlic butter Parmesan sauce into the skillet with the cooked shrimp. Toss gently to ensure all the shrimp are thoroughly coated in the luxurious sauce. Remove the skillet from the heat *immediately* to prevent the shrimp from continuing to cook and becoming tough. Serve hot and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips for Perfect Sauteed Shrimp
Store any leftover sauteed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a tiny bit of butter or olive oil, just until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as this will make them tough. Alternatively, you can reheat them briefly in the microwave, but skillet reheating generally yields better texture.
Shrimp is cooked when it turns opaque and firm, with vibrant pink and red hues developing on the exterior. The flesh should be white and slightly translucent in the center, and the shrimp will curl into a loose “C” shape. The sweet spot for cooking skillet shrimp is typically 2-3 minutes per side, depending on their size and heat level. It is crucial not to overcook them; overcooked shrimp quickly become rubbery, tough, and significantly less enjoyable.
While Parmesan cheese is highly recommended for its classic flavor profile, you can experiment with other hard, salty cheeses. Pecorino Romano would offer a sharper, tangier alternative, while a mild Asiago could provide a slightly nuttier, less intense flavor. Just ensure whatever cheese you choose is finely grated for smooth melting.
The number one rule for tender shrimp is to avoid overcooking. Shrimp cook very quickly, so keep a close eye on them. They only need a few minutes per side until they turn opaque and pink. Another crucial tip is to ensure your skillet is hot before adding the shrimp. This creates a quick sear and prevents them from stewing. Lastly, patting the shrimp completely dry before seasoning and cooking is essential for that perfect texture.
While the shrimp itself is best cooked and served immediately, you can prepare some components in advance. The garlic butter sauce can be mixed and melted, then stored in the refrigerator for a day or two. You can also peel and devein your shrimp and pat them dry a few hours ahead, keeping them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. This makes the final cooking process even faster!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Sauteed Shrimp
This versatile garlic butter Parmesan sauteed shrimp can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways. For a complete and balanced meal, serve it alongside fluffy steamed rice, which perfectly soaks up all that delicious garlic butter sauce. It also pairs wonderfully with crisp, vibrant vegetables like steamed broccoli, tender asparagus, or green beans sautéed with a touch of lemon. For a more indulgent option, toss the freshly cooked shrimp and sauce directly into a bowl of al dente pasta for an instant garlic butter shrimp pasta dish. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving brightens all the flavors, and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives adds a lovely pop of color and herbaceous freshness. Don’t forget some crusty bread to sop up any leftover sauce!
Beyond being a stellar main course, these shrimp also make an excellent appetizer. Arrange them on a platter with a side of your favorite dipping sauce (though the garlic butter is usually enough!) or serve them over a small bed of arugula. Their rich flavor and tender texture make them a crowd-pleaser every time.
Explore More Delicious Shrimp Recipes
- Crispy Shrimp
- Grilled Shrimp
- Shrimp Tacos
- Butterfly Shrimp
- Chile Lime Shrimp
- Shrimp Fajitas
- Shrimp Salad
- Citrus Pepper Shrimp
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Sauteed Shrimp
IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!
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Ingredients
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 3 Tbsp butter
- 2 tsp garlic minced
- 1 tsp shallot minced
- 2 Tbsp parmesan grated
Shrimp
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 lb raw jumbo shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on
- ½ tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic salt
- ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
Things You’ll Need
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Large skillet
Before You Begin
- We keep the tails on because they make a great handle for dipping the shrimp. You can remove the tails before cooking if you prefer.
- You can buy shrimp that is already peeled and deveined. Be sure they are raw, not cooked. If you are using frozen shrimp, allow them to fully thaw before seasoning and cooking. Pat them very dry!
- Shrimp cooks incredibly fast. To ensure tender, juicy results and avoid a rubbery texture, be sure to remove the shrimp from the skillet immediately after tossing them in the sauce. The residual heat will continue to cook them if left in the hot pan.
Instructions
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Combine all the ingredients for the garlic butter sauce (butter, minced garlic, minced shallot, and grated Parmesan) in a bowl. Melt in the microwave until smooth, then set aside.
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Thoroughly pat the raw shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
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In a small bowl, mix paprika, garlic salt, and black pepper. Generously sprinkle this seasoning blend over both sides of the dried shrimp.
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Melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the butter begins to foam, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 3 minutes on one side until they start to turn pink. Flip and cook for an additional 3 minutes. The shrimp will curl up and turn opaque with bright red and pink hues, indicating they are cooked through.
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Pour the prepared garlic butter sauce into the skillet with the cooked shrimp. Toss immediately to coat all the shrimp evenly. Remove the skillet from the heat without delay to prevent further cooking and maintain the shrimp’s tender texture. Serve hot.
Nutrition
The recipes on this blog are tested with a conventional gas oven and gas stovetop. It’s important to note that some ovens, especially as they age, can cook and bake inconsistently. Using an inexpensive oven thermometer can assure you that your oven is truly heating to the proper temperature. If you use a toaster oven or countertop oven, please keep in mind that they may not distribute heat the same as a conventional full sized oven and you may need to adjust your cooking/baking times. In the case of recipes made with a pressure cooker, air fryer, slow cooker, or other appliance, a link to the appliances we use is listed within each respective recipe. For baking recipes where measurements are given by weight, please note that results may not be the same if cups are used instead, and we can’t guarantee success with that method.