Nothing says holiday magic like a quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for Christmas dinner or a festive appetizer. If you love shrimp and garlic butter, this recipe is your new go-to. In just 10 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality dish ready to wow your guests—or simply treat yourself to a cozy Christmas meal at home. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before we start cooking, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. Fresh ingredients make a huge difference in flavor!
- 1 lb (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Tip: You can use frozen shrimp, but make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry for the best sear.
Step 1: Prep Your Shrimp
Even with a 10-minute recipe, prep is key!
- Pat the shrimp dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season lightly with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
- Set aside while you heat the pan.
Pro Tip: Dry shrimp sear better and soak up the garlic butter flavors beautifully.
Step 2: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Once the butter is melted and slightly foaming, add the minced garlic.
- Sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant, but be careful not to burn it.
Extra Flavor Tip: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a subtle festive kick.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes on one side until pink and slightly golden.
- Flip the shrimp and cook another 1–2 minutes until fully opaque.
- Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and toss gently.
Note: Shrimp cook very quickly—overcooking makes them rubbery. Keep an eye on them!
Step 4: Serve Festively
Serve your garlic butter shrimp immediately for the best taste. Pair it with:
- Warm crusty bread to mop up the garlic butter
- Steamed vegetables for a light meal
- Or over a bed of buttery rice for a festive dinner centerpiece
Tip: Garnish with extra lemon wedges or a sprinkle of paprika for a beautiful presentation.
Quick Variations
- Cheesy Twist: Add grated Parmesan over the shrimp before serving.
- Herb Explosion: Mix in chopped basil or thyme for a seasonal flavor.
- Spicy Holiday: Add a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas garlic butter shrimp recipe is all about speed, flavor, and festive flair. In just 10 minutes, you can create a stunning dish that’s perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings or a special weeknight treat.
Save this recipe for later, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Leave a Reply