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 dry white wine; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish); Lemon wedges (for serving)

Highlighted under: Classic Planning

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine for a quick yet impressive meal. The rich, buttery sauce combined with the subtle hint of garlic complements the sweet shrimp beautifully. It’s a dish that never fails to impress my friends and family, especially paired with a fresh baguette. I also enjoy how simple it is to make; in just about 20 minutes, you can create a gourmet-level dish that feels indulgent and satisfying. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe has become one of my go-to favorites!

Created by

Zara Ellington

Last updated on 2026-01-08T15:50:38.610Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine at a local restaurant, I was blown away by how well the flavors melded together. I wanted to recreate that experience at home, so I spent time experimenting with different ingredients and techniques. I learned that using high-quality butter and fresh garlic really elevates the dish and enhances the richness of the sauce.

One of my favorite tips is to cook the shrimp just until they turn pink; overcooking will make them tough. I pair it with a splash of white wine for acidity, which brightens up the flavors perfectly. Now, this dish is a staple in my kitchen, and I love sharing it with others!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich garlic flavor infused in buttery shrimp
A splash of white wine adds a delightful brightness
Quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The shrimp is the star of this recipe, so choosing high-quality shrimp is essential. I recommend using large, fresh shrimp that are sweet and firm, as they hold up beautifully in the buttery sauce. If you're using frozen shrimp, ensure they're thoroughly thawed before cooking to prevent a watery dish. Look for shrimp that are labeled as 'wild-caught' for the best flavor and sustainability.

The combination of unsalted butter and garlic creates a rich foundation for the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning, letting the natural sweetness of the shrimp shine. Fresh garlic, minced finely, releases its oils, imparting a robust flavor. Should you find yourself without fresh garlic, feel free to substitute granulated garlic, though the flavor won't be as vibrant.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When sautéing the garlic, watch carefully to avoid burning it; aim for a light golden color that signals optimal flavor release. Typically, 1 minute over medium heat is sufficient. If the garlic begins to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low to control the cooking.

Cooking the shrimp correctly is vital for achieving the perfect texture. You’ll know the shrimp are ready when they turn a bright pink with opaque centers, generally taking 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so keep an eye on them, and don’t hesitate to adjust your timing if they’re larger or smaller than average.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup dry white wine
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create this delicious dish:

Sauté Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Cook Shrimp

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

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly.

Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with lemon wedges.

Enjoy your gourmet meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or serving over a bed of pasta or rice to soak up the delicious sauce.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Garlic Butter Shrimp, consider serving it over a bed of creamy risotto or alongside garlic bread, perfect for soaking up the exquisite sauce. Simple green salads with a light vinaigrette can also add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. For a more Mediterranean touch, adding roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes on the side would complement the flavors beautifully.

Don’t skip those lemon wedges! A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving brightens the entire dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the shrimp's natural sweetness. You can also experiment with flavored oils, like chili oil, for a kick that pairs nicely with the buttery sauce.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to let the dish cool completely before sealing it to avoid excess moisture, which can dilute the sauce’s flavor. When reheating, do it gently on the stovetop over low heat; this prevents the shrimp from overcooking and becoming tough.

For longer storage, consider freezing the shrimp in the sauce. To do this successfully, allow the dish to cool and separate it into portions in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat slowly on the stovetop, adding a touch of fresh olive oil if needed.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of white wine should I use?

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

→ Can I make this recipe in advance?

You can prep the ingredients in advance but it’s best to cook and serve the shrimp fresh for optimal taste.

→ What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, pasta, or rice for a complete meal.