Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Recipe Tested & Approved by Mia Hartwell
Every recipe is developed, cooked, and tested by Mia in a real home kitchen using everyday ingredients to ensure reliable, repeatable results.
Juicy shrimp tossed in a bright lemon garlic butter, ready in under 15 minutes. A fast, versatile dish to serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
By Mia HartwellUpdated September 6, 2025
Developed using tested cooking methods — cook to the temperatures given and adjust times to your equipment.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Juicy lemon garlic shrimp in under 15 minutes
- 29g of protein and only 3g of carbs per serving
- Versatile over pasta, rice, or bread
- Naturally low-carb and gluten-free
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
15 min totalServes 4
Nutrition (per serving)
Values are estimates. See our disclaimer for details.
- Calories
- 230kcal
- Protein
- 29g
- Carbs
- 3g
- Fat
- 11g
- Fiber
- 0g
- Sugar
- 0g
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
- 2
Heat the olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high. Cook the shrimp 1 to 2 minutes per side, just until pink and opaque. Remove.
- 3
Lower the heat to medium, melt the remaining butter, and cook the garlic and red pepper flakes 1 minute.
- 4
Add the lemon juice and zest, then return the shrimp and toss to coat.
- 5
Finish with parsley and serve over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.
Pro Tips for the Best Results
- Do not overcook the shrimp. They are done as soon as they turn pink and curl into a C.
- Pat the shrimp dry so they sear instead of steam.
- Cook the garlic after lowering the heat so it does not burn.
- Add the lemon at the end to keep it bright.
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How to Cook Lemon Garlic Shrimp
New to this dish? Follow along with the detailed guide below — we break down each stage so you get perfect results the very first time.
Sear the shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry, season, and sear just until pink and curled into a loose C, then remove them. Shrimp overcook in seconds, so pull them early.
Make the lemon garlic butter
Cook the garlic gently in butter just until fragrant, then add lemon juice and zest. Low heat keeps the garlic from burning and turning bitter.
Toss and serve
Return the shrimp to coat in the bright, buttery sauce, then finish with parsley. Serve over pasta or rice, or with bread to soak up every drop.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Shrimp are best fresh. Reheat very briefly so they do not overcook.
Serving Suggestions
This lemon garlic shrimp pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, crusty bread, or your favorite grain. Add a simple side of roasted vegetables for a complete, satisfying dinner the whole family will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?+
Yes. Thaw and pat dry first so they sear and the garlic butter clings.
What should I serve it with?+
It is delicious over pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles, or with bread to mop up the butter.
How do I know shrimp are done?+
They turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C, usually 1 to 2 minutes per side. A tight O means overcooked.
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