Perfectly Roasted Garlic Shrimp

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this sensational Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe – a culinary masterpiece that promises an explosion of flavors in every bite. Imagine plump, succulent shrimp, expertly roasted and generously coated in a luxurious, aromatic sauce crafted from the freshest garlic, rich butter, and a delicate splash of white wine. Each mouthful delivers a perfect harmony of savory richness and a subtle tang, making this dish an unforgettable experience. The addition of fragrant fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme elevates the aroma, turning your kitchen into a gourmet haven. What truly sets this recipe apart is its incredible simplicity and speed; you can conjure up this restaurant-quality meal in just 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Whether you’re seeking an elegant appetizer to impress guests or a hearty main course that satisfies, this easy garlic butter shrimp is destined to become your new favorite go-to seafood recipe. Get ready to dip warm, crusty French bread into that irresistible sauce – it’s pure culinary bliss!

Why This Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe Is a Must-Try

Essential Ingredients for Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp

Crafting this incredible roasted garlic butter shrimp requires a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients that work in harmony to create its signature flavor profile. Each component plays a vital role in building the dish’s depth and aroma.

• Shrimp: The foundation of our dish. You have the choice of using either giant freshwater prawns or jumbo shrimp. Opt for shell-on varieties, as the shell helps to protect the shrimp from overcooking and infuses the sauce with even more flavor. Fresh shrimp are always preferred, but high-quality frozen shrimp, properly thawed and patted dry, work wonderfully as well.
• White Wine: A key ingredient for the luxurious sauce. You don’t need an expensive bottle; any good, dry, drinkable white wine will do. Varieties like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay (unoaked) are excellent choices. The wine adds a crucial layer of acidity and depth, balancing the richness of the butter and garlic.
• Butter & Olive Oil: The dynamic duo for creating our rich, flavorful base. Butter provides an unparalleled creamy texture and decadent taste, while olive oil helps prevent the butter from burning at higher temperatures and adds its own fruity notes.
• Shallot & Minced Garlic Cloves: These aromatics are the heart of the dish. Fresh garlic is non-negotiable for that authentic “killer garlic” flavor – aim for at least four cloves, minced, or more if you’re a true garlic aficionado. Shallots offer a milder, sweeter onion flavor than regular onions, complementing the garlic without overpowering it.
• Fresh Herbs & Spices:
  • Rosemary & Thyme: Preferably fresh, these herbs contribute earthy, piney, and slightly citrusy notes that perfectly meld with the garlic and butter.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Just a touch adds a subtle warmth and a gentle kick, enhancing the overall flavor without making the dish overly spicy. Adjust to your preference.
  • Fresh Parsley: Used as a vibrant garnish at the end, fresh parsley brightens the dish with its clean, herbaceous flavor and a pop of color.
  • Sea Salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
• Crusty French Bread: Not just a side, but an integral part of the experience! Its firm crust and soft interior are perfect for soaking up every last drop of that delectable garlic butter sauce.

How To Make This Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe – Step By Step

Creating this flavorful Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Follow these simple steps for a gourmet meal in minutes:

1. Preheat Your Oven and Prepare Shrimp: Begin by preheating your oven to a robust 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats, meticulously prepare your shrimp. If using shell-on shrimp, which is recommended for optimal flavor and moisture retention, use sharp, pointy kitchen shears to carefully cut through the shell along the back of each shrimp. This allows for easy deveining without fully removing the shell. Once cut, gently remove the dark vein. This step is crucial for both appearance and a cleaner taste.
2. Prepare the Aromatic Base: Place a medium-sized frying pan over medium-high heat. Add both the butter and olive oil. Allow them to melt and heat up until hot, but crucially, not smoking. Once shimmering, add the finely minced shallots, minced garlic cloves, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, a pinch of crushed red pepper, and sea salt. Sauté these aromatics for approximately 1 minute, stirring continuously, until they become incredibly fragrant and slightly softened. The aroma filling your kitchen will be absolutely captivating!
3. Craft the Wine Sauce: Pour the white wine into the pan with the sautéed aromatics. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the flavors to meld beautifully. This step forms the rich and fragrant base of your sauce. Once simmering, immediately turn off the heat.
4. Coat and Roast the Shrimp: Add the prepared shrimp directly into the pan with the warm sauce. Toss the shrimp gently to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated in the garlicky, buttery, wine-infused mixture. Without delay, spread the coated shrimp out in a single layer on a baking sheet. This ensures even cooking and prevents steaming. Transfer the baking sheet to your preheated oven and roast for 6-8 minutes. The exact timing will depend on the size of your shrimp, so keep a close eye on them and check for doneness after 8 minutes. Properly cooked shrimp will turn pink with red tails and their flesh will become slightly opaque and white in color. Avoid overcooking, as this can make them tough.
5. Garnish and Serve: Once the shrimp are perfectly cooked, remove them from the oven. Generously toss them with freshly chopped parsley, which adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color. Serve your roasted garlic butter shrimp immediately with plenty of crusty French bread to soak up every last drop of the exquisite buttery sauce. Enjoy this delightful dish as a sumptuous appetizer or a flavorful main course!

What To Serve With This Flavorful Roasted Garlic Shrimp

This easy roasted garlic shrimp recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments, making it suitable for any occasion. The rich, buttery, and garlicky sauce is the star, and you’ll want something to soak up every last drop!

• As a Hearty Appetizer: The most classic pairing, and for good reason! Serve alongside a generous basket of warm, crusty French bread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful sauce, making it an ideal starter for any gathering, from casual dinners to elegant parties.
• Over Pasta for a Substantial Main Course: Transform this appetizer into a full, satisfying main dish by serving it over a bed of your favorite pasta. Linguine, spaghetti, or even angel hair pasta would be excellent choices, allowing the pasta strands to absorb the delicious garlic butter sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top would complete this Italian-inspired meal.
• With Rice for a Comforting Meal: The robust flavors of the shrimp also complement various rice dishes. Consider serving it with simple white rice to let the shrimp shine, or elevate it further with more adventurous options such as Pineapple Fried Rice for a sweet and savory contrast, or Crispy Coconut Scallion Rice for an aromatic and textural experience.
• Alongside Roasted Vegetables: For a lighter, healthier option, pair your garlic shrimp with a medley of roasted vegetables. Asparagus, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini would all be fantastic choices, adding color, nutrients, and a fresh balance to the rich sauce.
• With a Simple Green Salad: A crisp, refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the garlic butter, providing a perfect counterpoint and completing a well-rounded meal.
• Quinoa or Couscous: For an alternative grain, serve the shrimp over fluffy quinoa or light couscous. These absorb the sauce well and offer a nutritious base.
• Drink Pairings: Continue the theme with the white wine used in the recipe, or opt for a light-bodied red if you prefer. A crisp lager or a sparkling water with lemon would also complement the flavors.

Top Tips For Perfecting This Roasted Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Achieving restaurant-quality roasted garlic shrimp at home is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Choosing the Right Shrimp: While the recipe is fantastic with jumbo shrimp, feel free to experiment with giant freshwater prawns. Both options are excellent for soaking up the flavorful sauce. Always aim for the freshest shrimp available. If using frozen, ensure they are thoroughly thawed in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water, then patted completely dry before cooking. Excess moisture can lead to steaming rather than roasting, preventing that perfect texture.
• Effortless Shell-On Deveining: Don’t be intimidated by shell-on shrimp! Deveining them is surprisingly simple. Use a pair of sharp, pointy kitchen shears to make a shallow cut along the back of the shrimp, following its natural curve. This allows you to easily remove the dark vein without peeling off the entire shell. Keeping the shell on during roasting adds a layer of protection, keeping the shrimp moist, and contributes additional flavor to the sauce.
• Spotting Perfectly Cooked Shrimp: The key to tender, juicy shrimp is knowing when they’re just right and avoiding overcooking. Properly cooked shrimp will have an exterior that is a vibrant pink, often with bright red tails. The flesh should be opaque and slightly white in color, with a gentle curl. If the shrimp curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re likely overcooked and will be tough. A perfect “C” shape indicates ideal doneness.
• Savoring Every Drop of the Sauce: The rich, garlicky, buttery sauce is truly the star of this dish. Do not let a single drop go to waste! Serving this roasted garlic shrimp with plenty of crusty French bread is not just a suggestion – it’s a requirement. The bread acts as the perfect vehicle to sop up all the delicious juices, transforming every bite into a heavenly experience. Alternatively, for a low-carb option, use cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles to absorb the flavors.
• Freshness Matters for Flavor: For a dish with such simple ingredients, the quality of each component makes a significant difference. Always use fresh garlic, quality butter, and fresh herbs when possible. The vibrant flavors of fresh ingredients will shine through, making your dish taste truly exceptional.

FAQ: Roasted Garlic Shrimp Recipe

Q: What’s the best way to ensure the most robust flavor for this garlicky shrimp recipe?
A: For the ultimate flavor, prioritize good quality, fresh ingredients. This means using plump, fresh shrimp and, most importantly, fresh garlic cloves – avoid pre-minced jarred garlic if possible, as its flavor is often muted. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the very end of cooking can dramatically brighten and enhance all the flavors, adding a fresh and vibrant zing that seafood lovers adore.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe, and what are the tips for doing so?
A: Absolutely, frozen shrimp is a perfectly acceptable and convenient option if fresh isn’t readily available. For the best results, ensure they are completely thawed before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or by placing them in a colander under cold running water for a few minutes. Once thawed, pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This step is crucial to prevent the shrimp from steaming instead of roasting, ensuring a better texture. Remember that the size of the frozen shrimp may slightly affect the overall cooking time, so adjust accordingly.

Q: Should the shrimp be deveined for this recipe?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to use deveined shrimp for this recipe. Deveining not only significantly improves the visual appeal of the dish but also enhances its overall texture and taste. The dark vein can sometimes carry a gritty texture and an undesirable flavor, so removing it ensures a cleaner, more pleasant eating experience. You can buy pre-deveined shrimp or follow the easy shell-on deveining tip provided in the recipe instructions.

Q: Can I add lemon zest to the recipe for an extra layer of flavor?
A: Absolutely! Adding lemon zest is a fantastic idea. It can introduce an additional layer of bright, citrusy aroma and flavor that beautifully complements the rich garlicky butter and the natural sweetness of the shrimp. You can add it along with the herbs or sprinkle it on as a garnish just before serving, making the dish even more tantalizing for those who enjoy a fresh, zesty kick.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb or keto diet?
A: Yes, this easy roasted shrimp recipe is an excellent choice for individuals following a low-carb or keto diet. The primary ingredients – shrimp, butter, garlic, olive oil, and herbs – are all low in carbohydrates. You can easily enjoy it on its own as a protein-rich meal, or pair it with low-carb sides such as sautéed leafy greens, roasted asparagus, steamed broccoli, or cauliflower rice instead of bread or pasta.

Q: What’s the easiest way to store leftovers, and how long do they last?
A: To store any leftover roasted garlic shrimp, allow them to cool completely to room temperature first. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and place them in the refrigerator. For the best quality, flavor, and food safety, leftovers should ideally be consumed within 1-2 days. Reheat gently in a pan on the stovetop over low heat or briefly in the oven to avoid overcooking the shrimp and making them rubbery.

Q: Are there different ways to serve this versatile dish besides with bread or pasta?
A: Definitely! While it’s famously delicious with crusty bread and an excellent topping for pasta or rice, its versatility extends further. You can serve it as a gourmet protein component alongside a fresh, crisp salad for a lighter meal. It also works wonderfully as a filling for soft tacos or lettuce wraps. For a brunch option, consider adding it to scrambled eggs or an omelet. Its robust flavor profile makes it adaptable enough to be the star in many different meal configurations.

Q: Can I garnish this dish with green onion instead of or in addition to parsley?
A: Garnishing with thinly sliced green onion (scallions) is an excellent idea! It adds a lovely touch of fresh color and introduces a subtle, mild oniony flavor that beautifully complements the rich and garlicky shrimp. The delicate bite of green onions can also provide a pleasant textural contrast, making the dish even more appealing and flavorful.

Q: Can I substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for white wine if I don’t want to use alcohol?
A: Yes, if you prefer not to use white wine, you can absolutely substitute it with an equal amount of chicken broth or vegetable broth. While the wine adds a unique depth and acidity, a good quality broth will still provide a flavorful liquid base for your sauce. You might consider adding a tiny splash of white wine vinegar or a bit more lemon juice to the broth to mimic the acidity the wine would have provided.

Discover More Irresistible Shrimp Recipes

If you’ve enjoyed the rich flavors of this Roasted Garlic Butter Shrimp, you’re in for a treat! Shrimp is an incredibly versatile ingredient, perfect for quick and delicious meals. Explore these other fantastic shrimp recipes that are sure to become new favorites:

• Killer Cajun Shrimp Recipe: For those who love a bit of heat and bold, zesty flavors, this Cajun-inspired shrimp dish delivers a punch.
• Shrimp Teriyaki Stir Fry: A vibrant and savory stir-fry featuring tender shrimp coated in a classic teriyaki glaze, packed with fresh vegetables for a complete meal.
• Thai Firecracker Shrimp: Exploding with sweet, spicy, and tangy Thai-inspired flavors, these firecracker shrimp are an exciting and addictive dish.
• Grilled Shrimp with Lemongrass and Ginger: Perfect for grilling season, this recipe features aromatic lemongrass and zesty ginger infusing shrimp with bright, fresh flavors.

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Roasted Garlic Shrimp Recipe

By Jaden

Recipe adapted from Crab: Buying, Cooking, Cracking by Andrea Froncillo and Jennifer Jeffrey.

Print Recipe
Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Course Main Course, Appetizer

Cuisine American, Seafood

Servings 4 people

Calories 347 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound shrimp jumbo, shell-on
• ½ cup dry white wine
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/2 stick
• 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 shallot minced
• 4-6 garlic cloves minced, adjust to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary finely chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves removed from stem
• ½-1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to desired heat
• 2 teaspoons sea salt
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish
• 1 loaf crusty French bread for serving

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature for even and quick roasting of the shrimp.
• Wash the shrimp under cold water. To devein the shrimp while keeping the shell on (which helps retain moisture and adds flavor), use sharp, pointy kitchen shears. Carefully cut through the shell along the back of the shrimp, from the head end towards the tail. Gently pull out and discard the dark vein. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
• Heat a medium frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the butter and olive oil. Once the butter is melted and the mixture is hot and shimmering (but not smoking), add the minced shallots, garlic, fresh rosemary, fresh thyme, crushed red pepper flakes, and sea salt. Sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently, until the aromatics are wonderfully fragrant and just beginning to soften.
• Carefully pour the white wine into the pan and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it simmer for a moment to allow the flavors to meld and some of the alcohol to cook off. Immediately turn off the heat. Add the prepared shrimp to the pan and toss them gently with tongs to ensure they are thoroughly coated in the rich garlic butter wine sauce. Immediately spread the coated shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast in the preheated oven for 6-8 minutes, or until the shrimp are fully cooked through (pink exterior, opaque white flesh). Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your shrimp, so begin checking for doneness around the 6-minute mark. Once cooked, remove from the oven, toss with the chopped fresh parsley, and serve immediately with slices of crusty French bread to soak up all the delectable juices.

Notes

• For this recipe, you have the flexibility to use either giant freshwater prawns or jumbo shrimp. Both options will absorb the rich flavors beautifully.
• Deveining shrimp with the shell on is made simple by using sharp, pointy kitchen shears. Just cut along the back of the shrimp through the shell to easily remove the vein.
• You’ll know the shrimp are perfectly cooked when their exterior is pink with red tails, and the flesh appears slightly opaque and a little “white” in color. Be careful not to overcook!
• The delectable buttery sauce is a highlight of this dish! Ensure you serve with plenty of crusty bread, perfect for mopping up every last drop.
• For an extra citrusy kick, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end can brighten the flavors.
• If you prefer not to use white wine, an equal amount of chicken or vegetable broth can be substituted.

Nutrition

Calories: 347kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 23gFat: 23gSaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 315mgSodium: 2158mgPotassium: 180mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 805IUVitamin C: 11.5mgCalcium: 193mgIron: 3.3mg

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