Want a quick and delicious meal? One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp is just what you need! This simple dish mixes juicy shrimp with rich butter and garlic for big flavor. You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Follow along as I guide you through each step, share tips, and give options to make it your own. Get ready for a tasty treat that you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
Flavor Enhancers
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 lemon, juiced and zested
– 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
Garnish and Optional Additions
– Fresh parsley, coarsely chopped
– Optional: cherry tomatoes, halved
– Optional: asparagus, trimmed and cut
The main ingredients are the stars of this dish. Shrimp bring a sweet, sea flavor. Butter adds a rich, creamy touch. Garlic gives a strong, savory kick. Together, they create a mouthwatering base.
For flavor, I love using red pepper flakes. They add heat, but you can adjust them to your taste. Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. It gives a tangy contrast to the rich butter. Chicken or vegetable broth keeps the shrimp juicy.
When garnishing, fresh parsley adds color and freshness. If you want to add more texture and taste, try cherry tomatoes. They burst with sweetness. Asparagus brings a nice crunch and a healthy touch. Each ingredient makes this dish better, and you can mix and match to suit your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Rinse and season the shrimp: Start by rinsing the shrimp under cool water. This helps remove any grit. After rinsing, pat them dry with paper towels. Next, season the shrimp with salt and black pepper. This step adds great flavor to the shrimp.
– Prep fresh ingredients: Mince the garlic finely. This will help release its strong flavor. Chop the parsley coarsely for garnish. If you choose to use cherry tomatoes or asparagus, cut them now. This makes the cooking process smoother.
Cooking Process
– Melt butter in a skillet: Place a large skillet on medium heat. Add the butter pieces to the skillet. Let the butter melt completely. You want it to froth gently before moving on to the next step.
– Infuse with garlic and spice: Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir these together for about one minute. You want the garlic to smell fragrant but not brown. Brown garlic can taste bitter.
Final Cooking Steps
– Cook shrimp until pink and opaque: Carefully add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook each side for about 2 to 3 minutes. The shrimp will turn a vibrant pink color when ready. They should also look opaque.
– Add broth, lemon juice, and optional ingredients: Sprinkle the lemon zest over the shrimp. Pour in fresh lemon juice and broth. Stir gently to mix everything. Let the dish simmer for about 2 minutes. This helps the flavors blend well. If you’re using cherry tomatoes or asparagus, add them now. Cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes. The vegetables should be tender but still bright.
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
How to tell when shrimp are cooked
Shrimp cook quickly. They turn pink and opaque when done. Look for a curled shape. This shows they are ready. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Aim for 2-3 minutes per side.
The importance of not overcooking garlic
Garlic adds flavor but burns fast. Cook garlic for about 1 minute. It should smell good but not turn brown. Brown garlic tastes bitter. Keep an eye on it while cooking.
Presentation Tips
Serving directly from the skillet vs. plated
Serving from the skillet looks rustic and inviting. It makes the meal feel casual. For a more formal look, plate servings. Add lemon wedges for a pop of color.
Garnishing ideas for visual appeal
Fresh parsley brightens up the dish. Scatter it on top just before serving. You can also add lemon slices or cherry tomatoes. These add color and make your dish more appealing.
Flavor Adjustment
Adjusting spice levels
You can change the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes. Start with a small amount. Taste as you go. This way, you find your perfect spice level without going overboard.
Enhancing flavors with additional seasonings
Try adding herbs like basil or thyme for more depth. A splash of soy sauce can also enhance the umami flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to find your favorite combination.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can change the shrimp to other seafood, like scallops or fish. This keeps the dish fresh. You can also use chicken or pork for a different protein. For a vegetarian twist, swap shrimp with firm tofu or mushrooms. Tofu takes on flavors well and adds a nice texture. Mushrooms give a savory taste that will please any palate.
Flavor Variations
Adding different herbs can change the whole dish. Basil brings a sweet and fragrant note. Cilantro adds brightness and pairs well with shrimp. You can also try sauces like soy or teriyaki. These sauces can bring a rich umami flavor and make it unique. Don’t be afraid to mix and match!
Seasonal Variations
Incorporating seasonal vegetables makes the dish vibrant and fresh. In summer, try fresh zucchini or bell peppers. In winter, add hearty vegetables like brussels sprouts or kale. These changes not only enhance flavor but also make it more colorful. You can adapt the recipe based on what you have in your kitchen.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your leftover One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp, let it cool first. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and tasty. Glass or plastic containers work well. They seal tight, keeping out air. Store it in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing Instructions
Yes, you can freeze this dish! To do this, pack it in a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top, as it may expand. When you want to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stove over low heat. Stir often to avoid burning.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, your shrimp will last about three days. In the freezer, it can stay good for up to three months. Always check for signs of spoilage. If the shrimp smells off or looks discolored, it’s best to toss it. Enjoying your One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp fresh is always the best choice!
FAQs
Common Questions
What’s the best way to peel and devein shrimp?
Peeling and deveining shrimp is easy. First, hold the shrimp in one hand. With the other hand, grab the shell at the head and pull it off. Next, use a small knife to make a shallow cut along the back. This cut reveals the dark vein. Gently pull it out with your fingers. Now your shrimp is clean and ready!
Can I make this recipe in advance?
You can prepare some parts ahead of time. Peel and devein the shrimp a day before. Store them in a sealed container in the fridge. You can also chop garlic and parsley in advance. Just keep them in separate containers. Cook the dish fresh for the best taste.
Cooking Related Questions
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, increase the red pepper flakes. You can also add a few dashes of hot sauce. If you love spice, try adding sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Start with a little, then taste as you go to find your perfect heat level.
Can I substitute the butter for a dairy-free option?
Yes, you can! Use olive oil or coconut oil instead of butter. Both will give a nice flavor. If you want a buttery taste, try vegan butter. It melts well and works great in this dish.
Nutritional Information
How many calories does One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp contain?
One serving of this dish has about 300 calories. This number may change based on extra ingredients. If you add cherry tomatoes or asparagus, the calories will be slightly higher.
What are the main nutrients in this dish?
This dish is rich in protein from the shrimp. It also has healthy fats from the butter. Garlic adds antioxidants, while lemon gives you vitamin C. If you add veggies, you’ll get even more vitamins and fiber!
This recipe for One Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp blends simple ingredients with easy steps. You can prepare tasty shrimp, infused with garlic and lemon, in no time. Remember, don’t overcook the shrimp or garlic for the best flavor. Feel free to customize the dish with different proteins or vegetables. Store leftovers well to enjoy later. Your culinary adventure starts with these basics, so have fun experimenting in the kitchen! Enjoy your delicious creation!
