Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic Global Cuisine Inspiration

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine for a quick and elegant dinner. This dish comes together in just a few minutes and is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that complements the shrimp beautifully, while the white wine adds a depth of flavor that’s irresistible. I also appreciate how versatile this recipe is, allowing me to serve it over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:45:43.834Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was amazed at how such simple ingredients could create an extraordinary dish. I remember preparing it for a dinner party and watching my guests' faces light up with every bite. The key to a great flavor is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant, as overcooking can lead to bitterness. This small tip really elevates the dish!

Another little secret I've learned is to use a dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc. It brightens up the dish and enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp. In our last attempt, we paired this with a side of asparagus, which was a lovely addition and complemented the flavors perfectly.

Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
Quick and easy preparation in just 20 minutes
Rich and buttery sauce with vibrant flavors
Impressive enough for entertaining yet simple for weeknight dinners

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of shrimp is crucial for this dish. I recommend using large shrimp, as they have enough meatiness to absorb the rich garlic butter sauce. If you can, opt for wild-caught shrimp for superior flavor. Always ensure they are peeled and deveined for the best texture and ease of eating.

Using fresh garlic is key to unlocking the full flavor potential of this dish. When sautéed, fresh garlic provides a robust aroma and taste that dried or powdered garlic can't replicate. Be careful not to overcook the garlic, as it can become bitter; it should be just fragrant and golden.

The white wine not only adds acidity and depth but also balances the richness of the butter. A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc works best, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can substitute with vegetable broth and a splash of vinegar for a similar effect.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

When sautéing the shrimp, make sure your skillet is hot enough. If the shrimp is added to a cold skillet, it can release water, making them steam rather than sear. Aim for medium-high heat and allow each side to cook undisturbed for about 2-3 minutes until they are a vibrant pink color with a slight golden edge.

To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on the shrimp; they cook quickly! Once they start to curl and the flesh turns opaque, they’re done. This is crucial because overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and chewy, ruining the dish. If needed, you can remove them earlier than the suggested time, allowing them to finish cooking in the residual heat of the sauce.

For a little extra flair, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce when cooking the shrimp. This adds a subtle heat that complements the garlic and butter beautifully, providing a new layer of flavor that can elevate the dish.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through.

Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot either over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can splash in a dash of red pepper flakes for heat or add in some vegetables like spinach or asparagus during the simmering step for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs exceptionally well with pasta, but you can also serve it over rice or quinoa for a gluten-free option. For a lighter touch, why not serve it alongside a fresh green salad? The bright acidity from the lemon will cut through the richness of the butter, creating a well-balanced meal.

When serving, I like to drizzle extra garlic butter sauce over the top for added flavor. You can even add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a squeeze more lemon juice just before serving to enhance the brightness and add a gourmet touch. Crusty bread is also a classic choice to soak up every last drop of the sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Keep in mind that the shrimp can become slightly less tender upon reheating. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat to prevent overcooking again, or you can microwave them in short intervals on low power until just heated through.

Avoid freezing the cooked shrimp, as the texture may suffer. Instead, if you're planning to prepare this dish in advance, consider cooking the shrimp fresh and making the garlic butter sauce ahead. Simply reheat the sauce, then add in fresh shrimp cooked on demand for the best taste and texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are thawed completely before cooking for even results.

→ What type of white wine is best for this dish?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc is recommended for the best flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I substitute the butter for oil?

Yes, you can use olive oil or another cooking oil if you prefer a lighter option.