Lemon Butter Shrimp: 5 Mouthwatering Recipes You’ll Love

Are you tired of bland, rubbery shrimp dishes that leave you disappointed? We’ve all been there. But imagine succulent shrimp bathed in a rich, tangy lemon butter sauce that melts in your mouth with every bite. These 5 lemon butter shrimp recipes promise restaurant-quality results with minimal effort right in your own kitchen.

In this guide, you’ll discover expert tips for selecting the freshest shrimp, foolproof cooking techniques, flavor variations that will impress even the pickiest eaters, and versatile serving suggestions to complete your meal. From weeknight dinners to special occasions, these recipes are guaranteed crowd-pleasers.

Why These Lemon Butter Shrimp Recipes Work

These lemon butter shrimp dishes stand out from ordinary seafood recipes for several compelling reasons:

• Uses affordable frozen shrimp that can be kept on hand for quick meals
• Requires just 15 minutes of cooking time for maximum tenderness
• Perfect for both weeknight dinners and impressive weekend entertaining
• Balances rich butter with bright lemon for a perfectly balanced sauce
• Adaptable to various cooking methods (stovetop, oven, or grill)

Choosing the Right Shrimp for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Best Shrimp Sizes for These Recipes

For most lemon butter shrimp recipes, large (31-35 per pound) or jumbo (21-25 per pound) shrimp work best. They provide the perfect bite while remaining tender and are substantial enough to stand up to the rich sauce. Medium shrimp can work for pasta dishes, while extra-large or jumbo shrimp make impressive appetizers.

Buying Tips

When purchasing shrimp for lemon butter recipes, look for:

• Translucent shells with no black spots or yellowing
• Firm texture that springs back when touched
• Mild, fresh scent (avoid anything with a strong ammonia odor)
• “Shell-on” options for more flavor (though peeled and deveined save time)
• Sustainable sources like MSC-certified or U.S. wild-caught shrimp

Substitutions

If you can’t find the ideal shrimp for your lemon butter recipe:

• Substitute scallops for an equally luxurious seafood experience
• Try firm white fish fillets (adjust cooking time accordingly)
• For budget versions, use smaller shrimp but reduce cooking time by 1-2 minutes

Ingredients & Prep for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Shrimp Prep Essentials

Proper shrimp preparation is crucial for perfect lemon butter shrimp:

1. Thaw frozen shrimp overnight in the refrigerator or under cold running water
2. Peel and devein shrimp if not already done (leave tails on for presentation if desired)
3. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels before cooking to ensure proper searing
4. Let shrimp sit at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before cooking for even results

Essential Ingredients

For classic lemon butter shrimp, you’ll need:

• 1-2 pounds large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3-4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1-2 fresh lemons (juice and zest)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or thyme)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• White wine or chicken broth (for sauce)

Pantry Staples

Keep these items on hand for easy lemon butter shrimp preparation:

• Good quality olive oil for sautéing
• Paprika or smoked paprika for color and flavor
• Garlic powder as a backup for fresh garlic
• Italian seasoning for herb-forward versions
• Cornstarch for thickening sauces if desired

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Pre-Cooking Prep for Lemon Butter Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels (crucial for proper browning)
2. Season shrimp lightly with salt and pepper on both sides
3. Prepare all ingredients before starting to cook as the process moves quickly
4. If making a pasta version, start boiling water now
5. Have a serving plate ready for the finished shrimp

Cooking Method for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Classic Stovetop Lemon Butter Shrimp:

1. Heat 1-2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat
2. Add shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed)
3. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque
4. Remove shrimp to a plate and lower heat to medium
5. Add 4 tablespoons butter and minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds
6. Pour in ¼ cup white wine or chicken broth, simmer for 2 minutes
7. Add lemon juice (2-3 tablespoons) and zest (1 teaspoon)
8. Return shrimp to pan, toss to coat, and heat through
9. Finish with fresh herbs and serve immediately

Doneness Check for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Perfectly cooked shrimp for lemon butter recipes should:

• Turn from gray/translucent to completely opaque
• Form a “C” shape (overcooked shrimp curl into tight “O” shapes)
• Have an internal temperature of 120°F (49°C) for tender results
• Take only 4-5 minutes total cooking time for most sizes

Resting for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Unlike with meat, shrimp don’t require a traditional resting period. However:

• Allow finished lemon butter shrimp to sit in the sauce for 1-2 minutes before serving
• This brief rest lets the flavors meld and the shrimp absorb the sauce
• Serve immediately after this short rest for the best texture

Pro Tips for Perfect Lemon Butter Shrimp

Avoiding Rubbery Lemon Butter Shrimp

• Don’t overcook—shrimp continue cooking even after removed from heat
• Cook shrimp in batches to prevent overcrowding the pan
• Remove shrimp from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque
• Add cold butter at the end of cooking for a silky, emulsified sauce
• Use room temperature lemons for maximum juice yield

Looking for more amazing seafood recipes? Check out our collection at RecipesFoody where you’ll find everything from simple weeknight dinners to impressive entertaining options!

Tool Recommendations for Lemon Butter Shrimp

• Large 12-inch skillet (stainless steel or cast iron) for even cooking
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring without damaging shrimp
• Microplane zester for perfect lemon zest
• Citrus juicer for maximum juice extraction
• Instant-read thermometer for perfect doneness (optional but helpful)

Storage & Reheating Lemon Butter Shrimp

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
• Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water
• Avoid microwave reheating which can make shrimp tough
• Add fresh lemon juice and herbs when reheating to brighten flavors
• For best results, prepare only what you’ll eat immediately

Flavor Variations for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Spicy Lemon Butter Shrimp

Transform the classic recipe with:

• 1-2 teaspoons crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 diced jalapeño (seeds removed for milder heat)
• 1 teaspoon cajun seasoning for complex spice
• A dash of hot sauce in the butter sauce

Herb-Forward Lemon Butter Shrimp

Create aromatic variations with these herb combinations:

• Mediterranean: 2 tablespoons fresh chopped dill and parsley
• Italian: 1 tablespoon each basil and oregano with extra garlic
• French: 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence and a splash of Pernod
• Thai-inspired: Fresh cilantro, mint and a splash of fish sauce

Global Flavor Inspirations for Lemon Butter Shrimp

Serving Suggestions for Lemon Butter Shrimp

These lemon butter shrimp recipes are versatile and pair beautifully with:

Starches:

• Al dente linguine or angel hair pasta
• Creamy polenta or grits
• Crusty artisan bread for sauce-dipping
• Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice
• Cauliflower rice for a low-carb option

Vegetables:

• Roasted asparagus or broccoli
• Sautéed spinach with garlic
• Fresh green salad with light vinaigrette
• Zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal
• Roasted cherry tomatoes

Beverage pairings:

• Crisp Sauvignon Blanc or unoaked Chardonnay
• Light-bodied Pinot Grigio
• Sparkling water with lemon
• Crisp lager or wheat beer
• Lemon-infused iced tea

Find more mouthwatering recipe ideas on our Pinterest page where we share daily inspiration for your kitchen adventures!

FAQs About Lemon Butter Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for lemon butter shrimp recipes?
Yes! Frozen shrimp often have better quality than “fresh” shrimp at the seafood counter (which are typically previously frozen). Just thaw completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water, and pat very dry before cooking.

How do I fix a broken or separated lemon butter sauce?
If your sauce separates, remove it from the heat and whisk in 1-2 tablespoons of cold water or heavy cream. Alternatively, blend 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and whisk into the simmering sauce.

Is it better to use salted or unsalted butter for lemon butter shrimp?
Unsalted butter is preferred as it allows you to control the salt level precisely. If using salted butter, reduce any additional salt in the recipe and adjust to taste at the end.

Can I make lemon butter shrimp ahead of time for a party?
For best quality, cook shrimp just before serving. However, you can prepare all ingredients in advance and even make the sauce ahead of time, then quickly cook the shrimp and combine with the reheated sauce just before serving.

How can I make a dairy-free version of lemon butter shrimp?
Substitute the butter with a high-quality plant-based butter alternative or use 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil with 1 tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a buttery flavor. The lemon flavors will still shine through beautifully.

Conclusion

These 5 lemon butter shrimp recipes offer the perfect balance of rich, tangy flavors with the sweet succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, the versatility of these recipes ensures there’s something for every occasion.

Remember the key secrets: don’t overcook your shrimp, use plenty of fresh lemon, and finish with high-quality butter for that silky, restaurant-worthy sauce. With these techniques in your culinary arsenal, you’re ready to create seafood magic in your kitchen.

Try one of these lemon butter shrimp recipes tonight and join thousands of home cooks who’ve discovered just how simple it can be to create impressive, flavorful seafood dishes at home!