Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Inspired World Food Recipes

I absolutely adore this Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine recipe! The combination of succulent shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce makes for a dish that's quick to prepare yet feels luxurious. We're using white wine to enhance the flavors, which adds a depth that's so irresistible. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a weeknight treat, this dish comes together in just a few minutes and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or pasta. Trust me, you'll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:06:39.665Z

When I first tried making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was blown away by how quickly the dish came together. It was a hectic weeknight, and I thought I'd whip up something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The key is using fresh shrimp and a good quality wine, which elevates the flavor profile incredibly.

One tip I learned is to not overcrowd the pan when sautéing the shrimp. Doing so ensures that they cook evenly and get that lovely caramelization. The aroma of garlic and butter is an experience on its own, and when combined with the shrimp, it’s simply divine!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Decadent garlic and butter flavor combined with the freshness of white wine
Quick cooking time perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions
Versatile dish that pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or fresh bread

Understanding the Ingredients

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the shrimp. For the best flavor and texture, opt for large, fresh shrimp, preferably wild-caught. Fresh shrimp have a slightly sweet taste and a firmer texture, which elevates the dish. If you're using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them overnight in the refrigerator to maintain their quality. Additionally, don’t forget to remove the shells and devein them, as this enhances the dish's presentation and ensures a cleaner bite.

Butter is crucial in this recipe, creating a rich base for the sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning better, but if you only have salted butter, reduce the amount of added salt. The garlic, when sautéed correctly, releases aromatic oils that marry beautifully with the butter. I recommend using freshly minced garlic rather than pre-minced options, as it provides a more robust flavor profile and aroma.

Perfecting Cooking Techniques

When it comes to sautéing the garlic, watch for the moment it turns golden and fragrant—this should take about 1 minute over medium heat. If you let it cook too long, it may develop a bitter taste, ruining the overall flavor of the dish. Keeping a close eye during this step is key; use a heat-resistant spatula to stir occasionally for even cooking.

Cooking the shrimp correctly is essential for achieving that perfect tender bite. Avoid overcrowding the skillet, as this can lead to steaming instead of searing. If needed, cook the shrimp in batches. Look for visual cues such as a change from a translucent to a bright pink color, which signals they are nearly done. Removing them from the heat just as they turn opaque ensures they retain a juicy texture rather than becoming rubbery.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this delightful dish:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup white wine
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine:

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkling with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

Add Wine and Lemon

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot with your favorite side.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a splash of cream for richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a luscious experience, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the sauce to cling beautifully to each strand. Alternatively, a hearty slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, ensuring none goes to waste. For a lighter option, a crisp side salad with a simple lemon vinaigrette adds freshness to the meal.

For those wanting to elevate the dish, consider topping it with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or freshly shaved lemon zest just before serving. The cheese adds a creamy element that harmonizes with the richness of the sauce, while the lemon zest provides an additional spark of flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To maintain the best texture, reheat gently over low heat in a skillet. Avoid microwaving, as high heat can cause the shrimp to become tough. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth while reheating to bring back the creamy consistency.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce. Make sure the dish is fully cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat following the gentle methods mentioned earlier.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking for best results.

→ What kind of white wine is best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best to complement the flavors of the dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It's best to serve this dish immediately for the freshest taste, but you can prepare the shrimp and garlic in advance and keep them refrigerated.

→ What should I serve with this shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, crusty bread, or even a light salad.