If you’re a fan of shrimp and love indulging in rich, savory dishes that make your taste buds dance, then you’re in for a treat. Shrimp Butter is like a silky dream in a dish—so buttery, so savory, and just bursting with flavor. The shrimp cook up perfectly tender while soaking in the luscious butter, garlic, and herbs, making it a dish that feels just as luxurious as it tastes. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again, whether it’s for a cozy dinner or when you’re impressing guests. You’ll feel like a chef in a five-star restaurant after making this!
Why You’ll Love Shrimp Butter
This recipe is one of those crowd-pleasing gems that feels extra special but is so simple to pull off. Here’s why it’s going to become your new go-to:
- Versatile: Perfect for any occasion! You can serve it on a busy weeknight when you just need something quick and satisfying, or elevate it for a dinner party. It’s the dish people will remember.
- Budget-Friendly: Shrimp may feel fancy, but you’d be surprised how affordable this dish can be when you’re not adding a bunch of complicated ingredients. Simple, high-quality ingredients deliver a luxurious taste.
- Quick & Easy: If you’ve been avoiding shrimp because of their seemingly fussy nature, this recipe will change your mind. It’s foolproof, with minimal effort needed to bring out the flavors.
- Customizable: Adjust the seasoning to fit your mood. Craving a little heat? Add chili flakes or cayenne. Want a fresher twist? Toss in some lemon zest or fresh herbs.
- Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is perfect for all ages. Serve it with rice, pasta, or just on its own, and watch everyone at the table go back for seconds (or thirds).

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Ingredients in Shrimp Butter
You’re going to be amazed at how simple these ingredients are! Don’t let the elegance of the dish fool you—these pantry staples do all the heavy lifting:
Shrimp: The star of the show. Fresh, plump shrimp are a treat to cook with and take on the butter sauce like a dream.
Butter: The key to that luxurious, melt-in-your-mouth richness. It’s what makes this dish so indulgent and irresistible.
Garlic: The fragrant, savory base that infuses every bite with its rich flavor.
Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary will brighten up the dish and add that touch of fresh, green flavor.
Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon will balance out the richness and give the dish a refreshing zing.
(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this mouthwatering masterpiece:
Preheat Your Pan:
Start by heating your skillet or pan over medium-high heat. This step ensures that the shrimp get that perfect sear and cook evenly.
Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to your hot pan and cook until they’re just pink and opaque. This should only take a few minutes on each side—don’t overcook them, or they’ll get tough.
Make the Butter Sauce:
In the same pan, melt the butter and then add the garlic. Stir it around until fragrant, and then let the butter get bubbly and slightly golden. This is where the magic happens!
Add the Herbs and Lemon:
Toss in your fresh herbs, give them a quick stir, and squeeze in some lemon juice. The aroma will fill the air, and you’ll know you’re almost there!
Combine and Coat:
Now, return your shrimp to the pan and let them soak up all that buttery goodness. Stir everything around to make sure each shrimp is coated with the sauce.
Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your shrimp butter and garnish with extra lemon slices and fresh parsley if you’d like. Serve it hot, and enjoy the heavenly combination of flavors.
How to Serve Shrimp Butter
While this dish is perfect on its own, here are a few ideas to elevate your meal even more:
- Over Pasta: The shrimp and butter sauce are incredible served over a bed of linguine or spaghetti. The pasta will soak up all the extra sauce, making each bite more delicious than the last.
- With Rice: Serve it over white rice or a creamy risotto. The rice will perfectly balance the richness of the shrimp and butter sauce.
- With a Fresh Salad: A simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness, creating a balanced meal.
- Garlic Bread: Because what’s better than buttery shrimp? Answer: buttery shrimp with a side of crispy, garlic-laden bread to soak up every last drop of sauce.
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: Shrimp cook fast, but you can prep everything else ahead of time—chop the garlic, measure out the butter, and have your herbs ready to go.
- Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so stay vigilant! Once they turn pink and opaque, it’s time to remove them from the pan.
- Adjust the Seasoning: If you like a little heat, feel free to add some chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the butter sauce.
- Make it Dairy-Free: You can substitute the butter for a dairy-free butter alternative if you’re lactose intolerant or avoiding dairy.
- Freezer Tip: Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat in a skillet or the microwave.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute the shrimp for another protein?
A1: Sure! You can try using chicken or even scallops. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: It’s best to cook the shrimp right before serving. However, you can prep the sauce and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook the shrimp.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently so the shrimp don’t become rubbery.
Q4: Can I freeze Shrimp Butter?
A4: While shrimp don’t freeze well once cooked, you can freeze the butter sauce and add freshly cooked shrimp when you’re ready to eat.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat Shrimp Butter?
A5: The best way to reheat is on the stove over low heat, adding a little more butter if needed to refresh the sauce.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Absolutely! Just make sure your pan is big enough to accommodate the extra shrimp.
Q7: Is Shrimp Butter suitable for keto?
A7: Yes! This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in healthy fats—perfect for a keto diet.
Q8: What side dishes pair well with Shrimp Butter?
A8: Try roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or even a side of creamy mashed potatoes. Anything that will complement the buttery sauce works beautifully.
Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: If you want to lighten it up, you can use a bit less butter or opt for a lighter butter alternative, and serve it with more veggies!
Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for Shrimp Butter?
A10: A heavy skillet or sauté pan works best—something that heats evenly and gives you a nice sear on the shrimp.
Conclusion
There you have it—Shrimp Butter, a dish that’s simple, indulgent, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, a weekend treat, or even a special gathering, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. The buttery, garlicky sauce enveloping tender shrimp will have everyone coming back for more, and trust me, you’ll be the one receiving all the compliments. It’s comfort food at its finest, but with a touch of elegance. So go ahead, give it a try, and let the magic of Shrimp Butter work its charm on your taste buds. Enjoy!
PrintShrimp Butter
This creamy and flavorful Shrimp Butter is a seafood lover’s dream! Made with butter, cream cheese, shrimp, and a hint of lemon and dill, it’s perfect as a spread for crackers, toast, or crostini. A great make-ahead appetizer for gatherings!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes (including chilling time)
- Yield: 1/2 cups of Shrimp Butter 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- 1/2 cup butter, room temperature
- 1/4 cup mayo
- 6 oz salad shrimp, patted dry
- 1 tablespoon minced white onion
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1 1/2 teaspoons dried dill
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
Instructions
- Mix Base: In a medium bowl, beat together butter and cream cheese until smooth.
- Combine Ingredients: Stir in mayo, shrimp, minced onion, lemon juice, dill, garlic powder, and salt. Mix until fully combined.
- Chill & Serve: Transfer mixture to a serving dish and cover. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld. Let come to room temperature before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the amount of garlic powder and dill to taste.
- Make ahead of time for a party or gathering; this recipe works wonderfully when chilled overnight.
- Serve with crackers, toast, or crostini for an easy appetizer.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg