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Easiest 20-Minute Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Skillet

Close-up of cooked shrimp swimming in rich lemon garlic butter sauce, garnished with fresh parsley.

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Make this flavorful lemon garlic butter shrimp in one skillet in under 20 minutes. This recipe provides a simple, rich sauce perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
  2. Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Do not overcook. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
  5. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  6. Pour in the white wine or broth and let it simmer for 1 minute, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
  7. Stir in the fresh lemon juice. Let the sauce reduce slightly for about 1 minute.
  8. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the shrimp in the sauce.
  9. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the fresh chopped parsley.
  10. Serve immediately.

Notes

  • For best results, use fresh lemon juice, not bottled.
  • If you prefer a richer sauce, add 1 tablespoon of heavy cream along with the lemon juice.
  • Serve this shrimp over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.

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