Introduction
Transform humble shrimp into a restaurant-worthy dish with this incredibly easy Garlic Butter Drunken Shrimp recipe! Ready in under 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delightful appetizer. We’ll elevate simple ingredients with a touch of creativity and bold flavors, proving that delicious doesn’t have to be complicated.
Why This Works
This recipe shines because of its perfect balance of savory garlic butter, a hint of sweetness, and the succulent bite of shrimp. The ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while the impressive flavor profile belies its simplicity. Accessible ingredients mean you likely already have most of what you need in your pantry!
Key Ingredients
🍤 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
🧄 4 cloves garlic, minced
🧈 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
🥂 1/4 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
🌿 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
🍋 1 tablespoon lemon juice
🧂 1/4 teaspoon salt
🌶️ 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
🌶️ 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely.
2️⃣ Melt the Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
3️⃣ Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4️⃣ Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
5️⃣ Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine reduce slightly, about 1 minute.
6️⃣ Stir in Seasonings: Stir in the parsley, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
7️⃣ Serve Immediately: Serve the Garlic Butter Drunken Shrimp hot, over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread for dipping.
Handy Tips
- Shrimp Size: Using larger shrimp ensures they don’t overcook. Smaller shrimp will cook faster.
- Garlic Lovers: Feel free to add more garlic! Start with an extra clove and adjust to your taste.
- Wine Substitution: If you don’t have white wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or even a splash of lemon juice.
- Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley is best, but dried parsley can be used in a pinch (use about 1 teaspoon).
Heat Control
Medium heat is crucial for this recipe. High heat will burn the garlic and overcook the shrimp before they have a chance to brown properly. The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque throughout. Avoid overcooking, as this will make them tough.
Crunch Factor
While this recipe doesn’t focus on crunch, the slight browning of the shrimp adds a pleasant textural contrast to the tender, juicy interior.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Prep Ahead: Mince the garlic and chop the parsley ahead of time to save time when cooking.
- Flavor Boost: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors.
- Easy Cleanup: Soak the skillet in hot, soapy water immediately after cooking to prevent the butter from sticking.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. Avoid over-reheating, as this can dry out the shrimp.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This dish is perfect for a casual get-together! Serve it in a beautiful bowl garnished with fresh parsley sprigs. For a more formal presentation, consider individual ramekins.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Shrimp: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
🌟 Garlic Parmesan Shrimp: Stir in 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese during the last minute of cooking.
🌟 Lemon Herb Shrimp: Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh dill or thyme along with the parsley.
🌟 Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
Troubleshooting
- Overcooked Shrimp: If the shrimp are tough and rubbery, you’ve likely overcooked them. Reduce the cooking time next time.
- Burnt Garlic: If the garlic burns, it’s likely because the heat is too high. Lower the heat and cook more slowly.
- Dry Shrimp: If the shrimp are dry, add a tablespoon or two of butter or white wine while cooking.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Can I substitute butter? Olive oil can be used, but the flavor will be different.
- How can I scale this recipe? Simply multiply the ingredient quantities proportionally.
- Is this recipe gluten-free and dairy-free? The base recipe is gluten-free. To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute.
Conclusion
This Garlic Butter Drunken Shrimp recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! We hope you enjoy this quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavor variations and share your culinary creations with friends and family!