Garlic Shrimp

With tender shrimp, bright lemon, plenty of garlic, and a buttery white wine sauce that’s packed with flavor, this dish earns its spot at the table. Even better, it comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for both easy weeknights and last-minute entertaining.

Serve it tapas-style alongside roasted potatoes, chorizo, manchego, and plenty of crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or spoon it over simple buttered noodles and let it shine as the main course. However you present it, this garlic shrimp is guaranteed to disappear fast.

What is garlic shrimp?

Beyond the plump, pink, tail-on shrimp and aromatic sliced garlic, the ingredients for garlic shrimp are quite similar to those in shrimp scampi. The shrimp are coated in spicy Creole seasoning to add a kick, then cooked in some olive oil on the stove. The sauce is a white wine, lemon, and butter mixture that coats the shrimp perfectly. A final sprinkling of fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice and this shrimp is ready to dig into!

How do you devein shrimp?

Many stores sell shrimp that are already peeled and deveined, which saves time. If prepping them yourself, rinse the shrimp under cold water, remove the shell, and use a small knife to make a shallow slit along the back. Lift out or rinse away the dark vein, then pat the shrimp dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly.

Can you use frozen shrimp?

Yes. Frozen peeled and deveined shrimp are a convenient option, so feel free to use them. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator, or, for a quicker method, place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water, changing the water every 30 minutes until thawed. If you’re a frozen shrimp fan, this article contains more tips for using this kitchen staple.

Is garlic shrimp spicy?

The Creole seasoning gives it a little kick, but this dish isn't overwhelmingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, choose a milder Creole seasoning or skip the Creole seasoning and just use a sprinkle of paprika, salt, and pepper instead.

How long does leftover garlic shrimp last in the fridge?

Leftover garlic shrimp will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Is there a substitute for white wine in this garlic shrimp recipe?

White wine is a key flavor component in this recipe, but if you’d prefer not to use it, then you can add a splash of chicken broth instead.