Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp (10-Minute Skillet)

Lemon garlic butter shrimp is the definition of a fast, impressive dinner. Plump shrimp cook in minutes, then get tossed in a bright garlic butter sauce finished with fresh lemon and parsley.

It is naturally low-carb and works over pasta, rice, or crusty bread — or on its own as an appetizer.

Why you’ll love this lemon garlic butter shrimp

• 10 minutes: shrimp cook incredibly fast.
• One skillet: quick and easy cleanup.
• Low-carb: serve it over greens or zucchini noodles.
• Bright and buttery: lemon and garlic make it irresistible.

Ingredients you’ll need

Pat the shrimp dry so they sear rather than steam.

• 1.5 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped parsley

How to make lemon garlic butter shrimp (step by step)

1. Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove.
3. Lower the heat, add the remaining butter, garlic, and red pepper flakes, and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return the shrimp, add the lemon juice, and toss for 30 seconds to coat.
5. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Food safety: cook shrimp to a safe minimum internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). An instant-read thermometer is the surest way to check — see the FoodSafety.gov chart.

Tips for the best results

• Do not overcook. Shrimp are done in about 3-4 minutes total.
• Dry the shrimp for a better sear.
• Add garlic off high heat so it does not burn.

Variations & substitutions

• Add a splash of white wine or broth for a pan sauce.
• Toss with cooked linguine for shrimp scampi-style pasta.
• Finish with grated parmesan.

Storage & make-ahead

Best eaten fresh, but leftovers keep for 2 days in the fridge. Reheat very gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to cook shrimp?

Only 3-4 minutes total. Shrimp are done as soon as they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C.

Fresh or frozen shrimp?

Both work. Thaw frozen shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking.

What can I serve it with?

Pasta, rice, crusty bread, or a simple salad. For low-carb, try it over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes. Use olive oil or a plant-based butter for the garlic sauce.