Are you looking for a quick, flavorful meal? Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp Recipe is the perfect choice!

This recipe brings together fresh shrimp, garlic, and a few simple ingredients for a tasty dish that anyone can make. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll love how easy it is to prepare.

Shrimp cooks quickly, and garlic adds a rich, aromatic flavor. The pan-frying technique ensures the shrimp gets crispy while keeping its tenderness.

With just a few minutes of cooking, you can enjoy a meal that tastes amazing and looks impressive.

In this blog, I’ll walk you through how to make pan-fried garlic shrimp and share some tips to make it even better. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to this tasty seafood dish!

What is a Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp Recipe?

Pan-fried garlic shrimp is a simple and quick seafood dish. It involves cooking shrimp in a hot skillet with garlic, butter, and olive oil.

The shrimp is seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes lemon for extra freshness. The dish can be prepared in just a few minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

The main attraction is the shrimp, which cooks fast and stays tender. The garlic and butter combine to make a delicious sauce that coats the shrimp.

The slight crispiness from the pan-frying process gives the shrimp a perfect texture.

This recipe is also very versatile. You can easily adjust the flavor by adding extra spices like chili flakes or herbs like parsley. Whether you’re making a light meal or serving it as a main course, it’s sure to impress.

How Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp Taste Like

The taste of pan-fried garlic shrimp is absolutely divine. The shrimp itself is tender, sweet, and juicy, and the garlic gives it a bold, aromatic flavor.

When combined with butter and olive oil, the shrimp becomes rich and savory. The garlic and butter create a slightly nutty, garlicky sauce that adds layers of flavor to each bite.

If you add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or sprinkle some herbs on top, you get a burst of freshness that balances out the richness.

The shrimp are crisped up nicely on the outside while staying soft inside, making each bite a delightful experience.

This dish is savory, zesty, and aromatic with every forkful. The balance of flavors makes it a satisfying dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

When Was I First Introduced to Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp?

I first discovered pan-fried garlic shrimp while visiting a friend. She made this simple yet delicious dish for dinner, and I was amazed by how easy it was to prepare.

I had always loved shrimp, but the garlic and butter combination made it taste even better than anything I had tasted before. The shrimp was perfectly cooked, crispy on the outside, and tender inside.

That night, I immediately asked her for the recipe. I was surprised at how few ingredients were needed. From that day on, pan-fried garlic shrimp became a staple in my kitchen.

Now, every time I crave something quick and flavorful, this dish is my go-to.

The first time I made it at home, I was thrilled with the result. The garlic shrimp was just as good as the one I had at my friend’s house. It was love at first bite!

Equipment

Non-Stick Skillet or Frying Pan

Knife (for chopping garlic)
Spoon or Spatula (for stirring)
Bowl (for preparing shrimp) (Optional)

Ingredients to Make Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Shrimp = 01 lb (450g) (peeled and deveined)
Olive Oil = 03 tablespoon
Unsalted Butter = 03 tablespoon

Garlic = 04 cloves (minced)
Lemon Zest = 01 teaspoon (Optional)
Fresh Lemon Juice = 01 tablespooon

Paprika = 1/2 teaspoon (Optional)
Salt and Pepper to taste
Fresh Parsley (chopped) (for garnish)

How to Make Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp

Step by Step Instructions:

Step 01: Prepare the Shrimp

Rinse shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
Remove shells and devein the shrimp if needed.

Step 02: Heat the Pan

Place a non-stick skillet on medium-high heat.
Add olive oil and let it warm for 1-2 minutes.

Step 03: Cook the Garlic

Add minced garlic to the pan.

Stir and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Avoid burning the garlic.

Step 04: Add the Shrimp

Place shrimp in a single layer in the pan.

Season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
Cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and crispy.

Step 05: Flip the Shrimp

Flip shrimp over with a spatula.

Cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully pink and opaque.

Step 06: Add Butter & Lemon

Reduce heat to low.
Add butter, let it melt.

Stir to coat shrimp in the garlic butter sauce.
Squeeze in lemon juice and zest.

Step 07: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat once shrimp is cooked.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Nutrition Information

Nutrient	Amount Per Servings)
Calories	180 kcal
Protein	20 g
Fat	10 g
Saturated Fat	3 g
Unsaturated Fat	7 g
Carbohydrates	3 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugars	1 g
Cholesterol	160 mg
Sodium	460 mg

Vitamins and Minerals

Vitamins and Minerals	Value
Vitamin A	4 % of Daily Value
Vitamin C	15 % of Daily Value
Calcium	4 % of Daily Value
Iron	10 % of Daily Value

Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp tastes better and cooks faster.

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook them. They should be pink and opaque.
Adjust Seasoning: Add chili flakes for a spicy kick or fresh parsley for extra flavor.
Use a Non-Stick Pan: This helps the shrimp cook evenly and prevents sticking.

Cook Shrimp in Batches: If you’re making a large batch, cook the shrimp in two batches. This will ensure they cook properly and get crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking.

Can I add vegetables to the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add veggies like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.

Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

Yes, olive oil works well if you prefer a lighter option.

Can I store leftover shrimp?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

How long does it take to cook shrimp?

Shrimp cooks quickly, usually in about 3-5 minutes per side.

What To Serve with Pan-Fried Garlic Shrimp Recipe (3-5 Sides)

Pan-fried garlic shrimp is a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Here are some great options to serve alongside it:

Rice: A simple side of steamed white or brown rice is perfect. The rice soaks up the garlic butter sauce and adds a satisfying texture to your meal.
Salad: A fresh, light salad with greens like arugula or spinach balances the richness of the shrimp. Add a light vinaigrette for extra flavor.
Pasta: Serve the shrimp over pasta for a more filling meal. You can use spaghetti, linguine, or even zoodles for a low-carb option.

Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini are great sides. The slight char from roasting pairs well with the shrimp’s flavor.
Garlic Bread: For a true garlic lover’s dream, serve some crispy garlic bread to dip into the leftover garlic butter sauce. It’s a perfect match!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, storing pan-fried garlic shrimp is easy. Simply place the shrimp in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh for 1-2 days.

When reheating, be sure to heat them gently on the stove or in the microwave. Overheating shrimp can cause them to become tough. You can also reheat the shrimp in a pan with a bit of extra butter or olive oil for added flavor.

While the shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, storing it properly will help preserve its flavor and texture for a short period.

Concluding Remarks

Pan-fried garlic shrimp is one of those recipes that’s simple, quick, and full of flavor. The tender shrimp, combined with garlic and butter, makes for a perfect meal that you can enjoy any time.

It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough for a special occasion.

Whether you’re making it for yourself or sharing it with family, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy every bite of this delicious seafood dish!

Enjoy your Cooking Adventure with Munchiie!

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