If you’re a fan of bold flavors and easy cooking, this shrimp garlic recipe is about to become your new favorite. Juicy shrimp, sizzling garlic, and a splash of olive oil come together in a dish that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re planning a quick dinner, a light appetizer, or a tapas-style meal, this recipe delivers rich flavor without fuss.
Inspired by the classic Spanish dish Gambas al Ajillo, this garlic shrimp recipe is fast, full of taste, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. You don’t need fancy skills or complex techniques—just fresh shrimp, garlic, and a few pantry staples.
Perfectly cooked shrimp with golden garlic and aromatic herbs is a winning combination every time. And the best part? This dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ready to make the best garlic shrimp at home? Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Garlic Recipe
This shrimp garlic recipe is more than just quick and easy—it’s packed with flavor, versatility, and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or serving guests, here’s why it stands out:
Bursting with Flavor
The savory mix of golden garlic and tender shrimp creates a mouthwatering aroma and taste. Every bite is infused with a rich garlic flavor and just the right amount of heat.
Simple Ingredients, Big Results
You don’t need anything complicated—just shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and a few seasonings. These pantry-friendly ingredients turn into a dish that tastes restaurant-worthy.
Ready in Under 20 Minutes
This is the ultimate quick meal. From start to finish, you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in less time than it takes to order takeout.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Serve it as an appetizer, a light lunch, or a main dinner with rice, pasta, or crusty bread. It’s elegant enough for a date night and simple enough for weeknight dinners.
Healthy and Light
This dish uses minimal oil and is naturally low in carbs and high in protein. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a wholesome yet satisfying recipe.
Versatile and Customizable
Add chili flakes for heat, a squeeze of lemon for brightness, or swap in your favorite herbs. Feel free to adjust the flavor profile to match your personal taste.
Whether you’re new to cooking shrimp or just need a go-to recipe that never fails, this one checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing.
Ingredients
This shrimp garlic recipe keeps it simple yet flavorful with a few everyday ingredients that come together for a satisfying dish. Below is everything you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp – peeled and deveined (use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp)
- 6 garlic cloves, finely minced – fresh garlic gives the best flavor
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – for sautéing and infusing with garlic
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle kick of heat
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – for seasoning the shrimp
- Juice of ½ lemon – adds brightness and balances the garlic
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – for a touch of freshness and color
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ tsp paprika or smoked paprika – adds depth and a mild smoky flavor
- 1 tsp lemon zest – enhances citrus aroma
- 2 tbsp dry chicken broth – deglazes the pan and adds flavor complexity
- 1 tbsp butter (optional) – for a richer finish if you prefer a buttery taste
Serving Suggestions:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast – perfect for dipping in the garlic-infused oil
- Steamed white rice or pasta – to turn it into a full meal
- Roasted vegetables or salad – for a healthy side dish
These ingredients are easy to find, affordable, and give the shrimp a bold garlic flavor that makes the dish shine. Plus, you can customize based on what’s in your pantry or your personal preferences.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make a flavorful shrimp garlic recipe that’s tender, juicy, and full of rich garlic flavor. This dish comes together in just minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining.
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them fully under cold running water or in the fridge overnight.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving tails on or off based on your preference.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them cook evenly and prevents splattering in the pan.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30–45 seconds, stirring constantly. Cook just until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden—do not let it burn.
Tip: Sautéing the garlic first infuses the olive oil with bold flavor, creating a rich base for your shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Place the shrimp in the skillet, making sure they are arranged in a single layer, without overlapping. Season immediately with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Sauté the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink, opaque, and lightly seared. Be careful not to overcook—they become rubbery quickly.
Note: Shrimp cook fast! As soon as both sides are pink and curled, remove them from heat.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
- Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze in the lemon juice or broth (if using).
- Let everything simmer for 30 seconds, scraping any browned bits from the pan to boost flavor.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
- Stir in chopped parsley, and optionally add a small knob of butter for a rich finish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with a final pinch of salt, black pepper, or a touch more lemon juice if desired.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
- Serve the garlic shrimp hot, straight from the skillet, spooning the aromatic garlic oil over the top.
- Pair it with rice, pasta, fresh salad, or toasted bread to make it a full and satisfying meal.
Pro Tips and Variations
Elevate your shrimp garlic recipe with these easy pro tips and exciting variations that bring out the best flavors and textures. Whether you’re keeping it classic or adding your own twist, this section ensures your shrimp turns out perfect every time.
Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Shrimp
Use Fresh or High-Quality Frozen Shrimp
Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works well too—just make sure to thaw completely and dry them before cooking.
Dry Shrimp Before Cooking
Patting the shrimp dry helps them sear nicely in the skillet and prevents excess moisture from diluting the garlic olive oil sauce.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly—usually just 1–2 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove from heat. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery fast.
Infuse the Olive Oil Gently
Sauté garlic at a low to medium heat so it infuses the olive oil without burning. If garlic burns, it can develop a bitter taste that overwhelms the other flavors in the dish.
Deglaze the Pan for Added Flavor
Adding lemon juice after cooking the shrimp helps lift any flavorful bits from the pan, enriching the garlic sauce.
Serve Immediately
Shrimp taste best fresh out of the pan. If you must reheat, do so briefly to avoid drying them out.
Flavor Variations to Try
Spicy Garlic Shrimp
Add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the oil for a fiery kick.
Herbed Garlic Shrimp
Swap parsley with fresh basil, cilantro, or thyme to add an herbal twist to your garlic shrimp recipe.
Garlic Shrimp with Paprika
Stir in smoked or sweet paprika to bring a subtle smoky depth and color to the dish.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Add a generous amount of lemon zest and juice for a brighter, citrusy flavor that pairs well with pasta or rice.
Mediterranean Twist
Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or capers for a bold, tangy flavor profile inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
Garlic Shrimp Skewers (Grilled Variation)
Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill them with garlic marinade instead of pan-searing—perfect for summer cookouts.
Add Veggies
Sauté zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach alongside the shrimp to create a one-pan garlic shrimp and veggie dinner.
Serving Suggestions
This incredibly tasty shrimp garlic recipe is incredibly versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes, making it a go-to option for easy weeknight dinners or special gatherings. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or appetizer, there are plenty of delicious ways to enjoy it.
Best Ways to Serve Garlic Shrimp
Over Rice
Serve your garlic shrimp over a bed of fluffy steamed jasmine rice, basmati rice, or garlic butter rice. The aromatic sauce from the shrimp seeps into the rice, creating a satisfying and flavorful base.
With Pasta
Toss the cooked shrimp and garlic olive oil sauce with linguine, spaghetti, or angel hair pasta for a quick and elegant garlic shrimp pasta dish. Add a splash of pasta water to create a silky coating.
With Crusty Bread
Enjoy garlic shrimp as a tapas-style appetizer with slices of warm crusty baguette or sourdough. The ideal choice for dipping into that delicious, golden garlic-infused olive oil.
Alongside a Fresh Salad
Pair your shrimp garlic recipe with a light green salad, such as arugula with lemon vinaigrette, cucumber tomato salad, or a classic Caesar. The freshness balances the rich shrimp flavor.
On a Bed of Greens
Turn it into a low-carb shrimp salad by placing the cooked shrimp over a bed of baby spinach, romaine, or kale, topped with a drizzle of olive oil and lemon juice.
Shrimp Garlic Tacos
Give it a twist by using garlic shrimp as a filling for soft tortillas, topped with shredded cabbage, avocado slices, and a dollop of spicy mayo or garlic crema.
With Roasted Vegetables
For a hearty and healthy dinner, serve the shrimp alongside roasted asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini. The roasted veggies complement the garlicky flavors without overpowering them.
As a Hearty Bowl
Create a shrimp garlic bowl with a base of rice or quinoa, and top with veggies, herbs, and a squeeze of lemon. It’s a well-rounded, nourishing meal that’s packed with flavor.
Conclusion
This shrimp garlic recipe is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that proves just how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re hosting guests, preparing a romantic dinner, or whipping up something fast for a busy weeknight, this garlic shrimp delivers on taste and ease.
With just a handful of pantry staples—shrimp, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of seasoning—you can bring the vibrant flavors of a Spanish tapas bar or seafood bistro right into your own kitchen. The juicy, tender shrimp combined with the rich aroma of garlic and herbs make this recipe one you’ll return to time and again.
The true magic of this dish lies in its remarkable adaptability to different tastes and ingredients. From shrimp pasta dinners to appetizer platters and everything in between, it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits seamlessly into any meal plan. It’s also perfect for pairing with your favorite sides or enjoying all on its own with a crusty slice of bread to soak up every last drop of that garlic-infused oil.
So the next time you’re craving something bold, comforting, and undeniably delicious, skip the takeout and make this easy garlic shrimp recipe at home. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish ready in minutes.
If you loved this recipe, don’t forget to bookmark it, share it with your friends, or try more of our quick shrimp recipes. Happy cooking!
Shrimp Garlic Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb 450g large shrimp – peeled and deveined (use fresh or thawed frozen shrimp)
- 6 garlic cloves finely minced – fresh garlic gives the best flavor
- 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil – for sautéing and infusing with garlic
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes optional – for a gentle kick of heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste – for seasoning the shrimp
- Juice of ½ lemon – adds brightness and balances the garlic
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley – for a touch of freshness and color
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ tsp paprika or smoked paprika – adds depth and a mild smoky flavor
- 1 tsp lemon zest – enhances citrus aroma
- 2 tbsp dry white wine or chicken broth – deglazes the pan and adds flavor complexity
- 1 tbsp butter optional – for a richer finish if you prefer a buttery taste
Serving Suggestions:
- Crusty bread or garlic toast – perfect for dipping in the garlic-infused oil
- Steamed white rice or pasta – to turn it into a full meal
- Roasted vegetables or salad – for a healthy side dish
Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
- If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them fully under cold running water or in the fridge overnight.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, leaving tails on or off based on your preference.
- Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps them cook evenly and prevents splattering in the pan.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 3 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30–45 seconds, stirring constantly. Cook just until the garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden—do not let it burn.
- Tip: Sautéing the garlic first infuses the olive oil with bold flavor, creating a rich base for your shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
- Place the shrimp in the skillet, making sure they are arranged in a single layer, without overlapping. Season immediately with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Sauté the shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side, or until pink, opaque, and lightly seared. Be careful not to overcook—they become rubbery quickly.
- Note: Shrimp cook fast! As soon as both sides are pink and curled, remove them from heat.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice & Optional Wine
- Once the shrimp are cooked, squeeze in the lemon juice and add white wine or broth (if using).
- Let everything simmer for 30 seconds, scraping any browned bits from the pan to boost flavor.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
- Stir in chopped parsley, and optionally add a small knob of butter for a rich finish.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with a final pinch of salt, black pepper, or a touch more lemon juice if desired.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
- Serve the garlic shrimp hot, straight from the skillet, spooning the aromatic garlic oil over the top.
- Pair it with rice, pasta, fresh salad, or toasted bread to make it a full and satisfying meal.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
Nutrient Amount Calories 280 kcal Total Fat 18g Saturated Fat 3g Protein 25g Carbohydrates 4g Fiber 0.5g Sugar 0.3g Sodium 540mg Cholesterol 185mgFAQs
What goes well with garlic shrimp?
Garlic shrimp pairs well with crusty bread, pasta, rice, steamed vegetables, or a light salad. For a heartier meal, serve it over creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted asparagus.
What’s the tastiest way to cook shrimp?
Sautéing shrimp in a hot skillet with garlic and olive oil is one of the tastiest methods. It enhances the natural sweetness of shrimp while infusing it with rich, savory flavors.
Should I soak raw shrimp before cooking?
Soaking shrimp isn’t required, but some cooks soak shrimp briefly in saltwater or baking soda solution to improve texture. However, it’s not essential for this garlic shrimp recipe.
Do I cook shrimp with oil or butter?
Both work well. Olive oil is often used for its flavor and health benefits, while butter adds richness. You can even combine both for a more decadent taste.
Why do you soak shrimp in milk before frying?
Soaking shrimp in milk can help tenderize the shrimp and remove any fishy smell. It’s more common in fried shrimp recipes but not necessary for sautéed garlic shrimp.
How can you make garlic butter?
To make garlic butter, simply melt butter and stir in finely minced garlic. You can also add chopped parsley, lemon juice, or a pinch of salt for extra flavor.
What makes shrimp taste better?
Seasonings like garlic, lemon juice, paprika, chili flakes, and fresh herbs enhance shrimp’s flavor. Cooking it just right—until it turns pink and opaque—also makes a big difference.
What is the best sauce to eat with shrimp?
Shrimp tastes great with garlic butter sauce, lemon herb sauce, spicy mayo, cocktail sauce, or creamy aioli. In this recipe, the garlic oil acts as a flavorful sauce on its own.