Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe is a easy American (Creole) recipe that serves 4. 210 calories per serving. Recipe by Island Vibe Cooking on YouTube.

Prep: 10 min | Cook: 8 min | Total: 23 min

Cost: $14.93 total, $3.73 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 pound Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on (Rinse and pat dry)
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Cut into cubes for quick melting)
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Extra‑virgin preferred; prevents butter from burning)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (Finely minced; use fresh garlic, not pre‑minced)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley (Chopped; reserve a pinch for garnish)
  • 1 teaspoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning (Provides citrusy heat)
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika (Smoked or sweet, per preference)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Creole Seasoning (Adds classic Southern flavor)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (Freshly ground)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Obey Seasoning ((If unavailable, use Old Bay or a pinch of celery salt))
  • 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Lightly coats shrimp for crispness)
  • 1/2 lemon Half Lemon (Juice only; zest optional for extra brightness)

Instructions

  1. Combine Dry Seasonings

    In a mixing bowl, whisk together lemon pepper, paprika, Creole seasoning, ground black pepper, and Obey seasoning until evenly blended.

    Time: PT2M

  2. Season the Shrimp

    Add the raw shrimp to the bowl, toss to coat evenly with the dry seasoning mixture.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Add Cornstarch for Crunch

    Sprinkle the tablespoon of cornstarch over the seasoned shrimp and gently mix with your hands until each piece is lightly coated.

    Time: PT1M

  4. Preheat Skillet

    Place the skillet over medium‑high heat, drizzle olive oil, and let it heat for about 30 seconds.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  5. Melt Butter

    Add the cubed unsalted butter to the hot oil; swirl until fully melted and slightly foamy.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  6. Cook Shrimp – First Side

    Lay the shrimp in a single layer, skin side down, and cook for 2 minutes without moving them.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  7. Flip and Cook Second Side

    Turn the shrimp over and cook another 2 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

    Time: PT2M

    Temperature: Medium‑high

  8. Remove Shrimp

    Transfer the cooked shrimp to a plate and set aside while you finish the sauce.

    Time: PT1M

  9. Make Garlic‑Butter Sauce

    Reduce heat to medium, add a little more butter if the pan looks dry, then add minced fresh garlic. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant and lightly golden.

    Time: PT1M

    Temperature: Medium

  10. Add Parsley and Lemon Juice

    Stir in chopped parsley and squeeze the juice of half a lemon; cook 15 seconds to combine flavors.

    Time: PT30S

    Temperature: Medium

  11. Combine Shrimp with Sauce

    Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, toss quickly to coat with the garlic‑butter mixture. Cook an additional 30 seconds to re‑heat.

    Time: PT30S

    Temperature: Medium

  12. Garnish and Serve

    Transfer shrimp to a serving plate, sprinkle with a final pinch of fresh parsley. Serve immediately.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
210
Protein
22 g
Carbohydrates
5 g
Fat
10 g
Fiber
1 g

Dietary info: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb

Allergens: Shellfish, Dairy

Last updated: April 18, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

Recipe by Island Vibe Cooking

A fast, flavor‑packed shrimp dish that’s tossed in a buttery garlic‑lemon sauce and finished with fresh parsley. The secret is a light coating of cornstarch that gives the shrimp a satisfying crisp while keeping the interior juicy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a crowd‑pleasing appetizer.

EasyAmerican (Creole)Serves 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
8m
Prep
6m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
24m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$14.93
Total cost
$3.73
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Coating shrimp with cornstarch before cooking for crisp texture
  • Do not overcook shrimp; 2 min per side is ideal
  • Use fresh minced garlic, not pre‑minced, to avoid bitterness
  • Add olive oil before butter to prevent butter from burning

Safety Warnings

  • Hot oil and butter can cause severe burns; use a splatter guard if needed.
  • Ensure shrimp are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid oil splatter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of garlic butter shrimp in American Creole cuisine?

A

Garlic butter shrimp reflects the Creole tradition of quick, pan‑seared seafood seasoned with bold spices and bright citrus. The dish evolved from coastal cooking where butter and garlic were abundant, and it’s often served at family gatherings and casual dinner parties in the Gulf Coast region.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of garlic butter shrimp in Creole cooking?

A

In Louisiana, cooks may add Cajun or Creole seasoning and a splash of hot sauce for heat. In coastal Florida, the dish often includes a dash of Old Bay and is served over grits. Some islands add coconut oil instead of butter for a tropical twist.

cultural
Q

How is garlic butter shrimp traditionally served in the Southern United States?

A

It is commonly plated over a bed of steamed rice, alongside a simple green salad, or with crusty French bread to soak up the buttery sauce. It’s also a popular appetizer at seafood boils and casual barbecues.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations is garlic butter shrimp associated with in Creole culture?

A

The dish appears at Mardi Mardi celebrations, shrimp festivals, and family Sunday dinners, where quick, flavorful seafood is prized for feeding large groups.

cultural
Q

What makes this quick and easy garlic butter shrimp special compared to other shrimp recipes?

A

The light cornstarch coating creates a crisp exterior while keeping the interior juicy, and the combination of olive oil and butter prevents burning, delivering a rich garlic‑lemon flavor in under 15 minutes.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making quick and easy garlic butter shrimp from Island Vibe Cooking?

A

Overcooking the shrimp, using pre‑minced garlic that can burn, skipping the cornstarch coating, and overcrowding the pan are the biggest pitfalls. Follow the timing and keep the pan hot but not smoking.

technical
Q

Why does this garlic butter shrimp recipe use cornstarch instead of flour for the coating?

A

Cornstarch creates a lighter, crispier crust and stays gluten‑free, whereas flour can produce a heavier, doughier coating. The video emphasizes cornstarch for that signature crunch.

technical
Q

Can I make the garlic butter shrimp ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can season and coat the shrimp up to 30 minutes ahead and keep them refrigerated. After cooking, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days and re‑heat gently in a skillet.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when the shrimp are done?

A

The shrimp should be pink and opaque with a golden‑brown, slightly crisp exterior from the cornstarch. The garlic‑butter sauce should be glossy and coat each piece without pooling.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Island Vibe Cooking specialize in?

A

Island Vibe Cooking focuses on quick, tropical‑inspired dishes that blend Caribbean and Southern U.S. flavors, emphasizing fresh ingredients, bold spices, and easy‑to‑follow video tutorials.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Island Vibe Cooking's approach to Creole cooking differ from other Creole cooking channels?

A

Island Vibe Cooking highlights shortcuts like using cornstarch for crispness and pairing traditional Creole seasonings with fresh citrus, aiming for restaurant‑level flavor in under 15 minutes, whereas many other channels stick to longer, more traditional simmered preparations.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp
6

Quick and Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp

A fast, flavorful shrimp dish tossed in a buttery garlic, lemon and chili sauce. Perfect served over pasta, rice, or on its own for a keto-friendly meal.

20 minServes 4$14
American
Garlic Butter Herb Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Lemon Broccoli
9

Garlic Butter Herb Shrimp with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Lemon Broccoli

A comforting, one‑pan dinner featuring golden garlic‑butter shrimp, fluffy butter‑cream mashed potatoes, and bright, crisp broccoli tossed in a garlicky herb seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal that feels indulgent.

1 hr 7 minServes 4$15
American
5 Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp
4

5 Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp

A quick, buttery, garlicky shrimp dish that’s tossed in a bright lemon‑cajun sauce. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a crowd‑pleasing appetizer, this recipe uses pantry staples and fresh shrimp for maximum flavor in under 20 minutes.

20 minServes 4$16
American
Garlic Butter Prawn
3

Garlic Butter Prawn

A quick, flavorful dish of butterflied shrimp tossed in a garlicky paprika butter, baked until tender and finished with Parmesan and fresh parsley. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner or a crowd‑pleasing appetizer.

39 minServes 4$14
American
Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe
5

Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe

A quick, flavorful shrimp dish packed with garlic, butter, lemon, and a kick of heat. Ready in under 10 minutes, it works as a tasty appetizer for game day, a satisfying main over rice or pasta, or a romantic dinner for two.

20 minServes 4$12
American
3 Tips for a Perfect Whole Roasted Chicken
3

3 Tips for a Perfect Whole Roasted Chicken

A simple, fool‑proof method for roasting a whole chicken with ultra‑crispy skin. Follow three essential tips—dry the bird, season it thoroughly (including under the skin), and truss the drumsticks—for a juicy, evenly cooked chicken that’s perfect for any family dinner.

1 hr 55 minServes 4$9
American
Lemon Chicken - Bake for 40min @ 400 degrees. Broil for 5min.
2

Lemon Chicken - Bake for 40min @ 400 degrees. Broil for 5min.

Juicy oven‑baked chicken thighs coated in a bright lemon‑pepper crust, perfect for meal‑prep or a quick dinner. The recipe uses a simple olive‑oil based marinade with garlic, lemon pepper, and fresh parsley, then finishes with a short broil for extra crispness.

1 hr 27 minServes 4$6
American
Would You Eat These Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers With A Garlic Butter Sauce?
7

Would You Eat These Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Skewers With A Garlic Butter Sauce?

Juicy chicken breast cubes marinated in lemon pepper, threaded onto skewers, and roasted until perfectly charred, served with a bright garlicky lemon butter sauce. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend grill party.

1 hr 36 minServes 4$10
American