If you love bold and bright flavors mingled with creamy indulgence, then this Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining succulent shrimp with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, all embraced by rich, velvety butter, this simple yet sophisticated spread elevates everything it touches. Whether you’re looking to jazz up a weeknight dinner or impress guests with minimal effort, this recipe delivers a golden balance of freshness, depth, and a touch of smoky warmth that will leave you craving more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are delightfully straightforward but packed with purpose, each bringing a crucial layer of taste, texture, or color that makes the Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe truly unforgettable.
- Cooked shrimp (1/2 lb): Chopped just right to add a tender seafood punch without overpowering the butter’s richness.
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup): The creamy base that carries all the flavors and adds luscious texture.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps sauté the garlic gently and lends a subtle fruitiness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses the butter with aromatic warmth and a touch of bite.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon): Adds a bright, tangy contrast that lifts the shrimp and butter beautifully.
- Fresh parsley (1 tablespoon, chopped): Sprinkles in a fresh herbal pop of color and flavor.
- Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Introduces a gentle smoky depth that transforms the butter to downright irresistible.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing every element perfectly.
How to Make Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Start by chopping your cooked shrimp into bite-sized pieces. The goal is to retain some texture so every scoop of butter gives you a satisfying surprise of tender shrimp rather than a uniform paste. This little step sets the stage for a wonderful mouthfeel.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat olive oil gently in a small skillet over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Let the garlic cook just until fragrant, about one to two minutes. This quick sauté deepens the garlic’s flavor, making it sweeter and more nuanced without turning bitter, which is key for the best Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe.
Step 3: Combine with Butter
In a medium bowl, mix the softened unsalted butter with the warm olive oil and garlic mixture. The heat helps release the garlic’s aroma into the butter, which will carry through every bite. Stir well to marry these flavors thoroughly.
Step 4: Add Shrimp and Seasonings
Fold in the chopped shrimp along with fresh lemon juice, chopped parsley, smoked paprika if you’re using it, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Each addition layers distinct notes—bright citrus, earthy herbs, gentle smokiness—all mingling harmoniously in this luscious butter blend.
Step 5: Chill and Firm Up
For a perfectly spreadable consistency and intensifying flavors, transfer the shrimp butter onto plastic wrap or parchment paper, shaping it into a neat log. Refrigerate for at least one hour. This chilling step helps the flavors meld and the butter to firm up, though it’s also delightful served immediately if you’re eager to dive in!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
This final step is all about savouring your creation. The Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe can be served generously on grilled breads, crackers, tossed into pasta, or melted over fish and seafood dishes to add a burst of flavor that will wow your taste buds.
How to Serve Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a light zest of lemon peel on top instantly brightens the presentation and adds fresh, herbal notes that contrast beautifully with the rich shrimp butter. You might also add a few whole cooked shrimp on the side for extra flair.
Side Dishes
Think crusty artisan bread, crisp crackers, or tender pasta as ideal companions. Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad can also complement the richness while keeping the meal balanced and fresh. The versatility of Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe makes it surprisingly easy to pair with lots of favorites.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the shrimp butter as a dollop atop warm baked potatoes or grilled corn on the cob for an unexpected twist. You could also use it as a luxurious spread inside sandwiches or sliders, or melt it over a perfectly seared scallop or filet for an indulgent surf-and-turf experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe, store it tightly wrapped in the refrigerator. It will keep its vibrant flavor and creamy texture for up to 3 days—perfect for a quick flavor boost on another meal.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the butter log wrapped securely in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing its rich flavor. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before using to retain its beautiful consistency.
Reheating
When ready to use refrigerated or thawed shrimp butter, bring it to room temperature to soften or gently warm it in a skillet or microwave until just melted. Avoid overheating to preserve that fresh garlic and lemon brightness along with the butter’s creamy texture.
FAQs
Can I use raw shrimp for this garlic lemon shrimp butter recipe?
This recipe calls for cooked shrimp to maintain a nice, firm texture and to blend flavors without overcooking. If you want to use raw shrimp, cook them separately first and let them cool before chopping and mixing.
Is smoked paprika necessary?
Smoked paprika is optional but highly recommended for a subtle smoky depth that complements the garlic and lemon beautifully. If you don’t have it, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne can work as a substitute.
Can this shrimp butter be made vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with a vegan or dairy-free alternative, and use plant-based shrimp substitutes if desired. Keep in mind that the rich flavor profile might differ slightly, but it can still be delicious.
What are the best ways to serve this shrimp butter?
The versatility is endless—you can spread it on warm bread or crackers, melt it over pasta or grilled seafood, or even use it to finish grilled veggies. It adds a gourmet touch wherever you need a flavor boost.
How long does the garlic lemon shrimp butter stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for about 3 days. Keep it wrapped tightly to prevent absorbing other odors.
Final Thoughts
Making this Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe means inviting a burst of luxurious flavor into your kitchen with minimal effort. It’s an easy way to transform everyday meals into something truly special and share-worthy. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover just how addictive this buttery, garlicky, lemony shrimp spread can be. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Garlic Lemon Shrimp Butter Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 1 to 1.1 servings
- Category: Condiment
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A rich and flavorful Shrimp Butter recipe that combines tender cooked shrimp with garlic-infused butter, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and smoked paprika. Perfect for serving with grilled bread, seafood, or pasta, this easy-to-make butter adds a delightful seafood twist to any meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp Butter Ingredients
- 1/2 lb (8 oz) cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Shrimp: Chop the cooked shrimp into small pieces, keeping some texture to ensure a pleasant bite in the butter mixture.
- Sauté the Garlic: Heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, taking care not to burn the garlic.
- Combine with Butter: In a medium bowl, mix the softened butter with the sautéed garlic and olive oil until thoroughly combined.
- Add Shrimp and Seasonings: Stir the chopped shrimp into the butter mixture until evenly incorporated.
- Add Lemon Juice and Herbs: Mix in lemon juice, chopped fresh parsley, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Ensure all ingredients are well blended.
- Chill (Optional): For optimal texture, shape the shrimp butter into a log using plastic wrap or parchment paper, then refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up. It can also be served immediately if preferred.
- Serve: Enjoy the shrimp butter spread on grilled bread, crackers, or melted over seafood dishes and pasta for enhanced flavor.
Notes
- Use cooked shrimp to save time; fresh shrimp must be cooked and cooled before using.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a nice depth of flavor.
- Refrigerate before serving to firm the butter for easier slicing and serving.
- Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Adjust garlic and lemon juice amounts to suit personal taste.
