Name: Best Garlic Shrimp Recipe: Quick Hawaiian Delight at Home
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 pound extra large shrimp, peeled and deveined (for best texture); 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced (provides bold flavor); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (for richness and depth); 2 tablespoons olive oil (to sauté without burning butter); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (to brighten flavors); 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (creates a light crust); 1 teaspoon paprika (adds color and smokiness); 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for heat); to taste salt and pepper (to enhance flavor); 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for color and freshness)

When the sun is setting and the air is filled with the scent of ocean waves, there’s nothing quite like the allure of Hawaiian cuisine to whisk you away to paradise. This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe is a treasure that encapsulates the essence of vibrant beachside food trucks. The moment you toss succulent shrimp into a sizzling skillet with fresh garlic and buttery goodness, you’ll understand why this dish has become a go-to favorite.

In just under 20 minutes, you can enjoy a quick yet impressive meal that delights every palate—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special gathering. Trust me, the rich, garlicky aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly awaiting their first bite. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the magic of this flavorful dish that promises to transport you straight to the Hawaiian islands!

Why is Best Garlic Shrimp a must-try?

Quick Preparation: This recipe can be whipped up in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Mouthwatering Aroma: The rich, buttery garlic sauce fills your kitchen with an irresistible scent that will gather everyone around the dinner table.

Succulent Seafood: Using fresh, extra-large shrimp ensures a tender, juicy texture that stands out.

Versatile Options: Feel free to swap in scallops or chicken, or even add vibrant veggies for extra nutrition.

Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Comments like “just like the food trucks!” will become the norm when you serve this dish at gatherings.

The next time you’re in search of something delicious, don’t forget to check my serving suggestions for a complete meal idea.

Best Garlic Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp
• Extra Large Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined for the best texture that captures the essence of the best garlic shrimp.

For the Garlic Sauce
• Fresh Garlic – Provides a bold, pungent flavor; always opt for fresh to maximize taste.
• Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and depth to the sauce; be sure to use it for the creamiest results.
• Olive Oil – Helps to sauté without burning the butter, ensuring a perfect cook.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the dish and balances the flavors with a refreshing zing.

For the Coating
• All-Purpose Flour – Creates a light crust on the shrimp, giving a satisfying texture.
• Paprika – Adds a beautiful color and a hint of smokiness to the overall flavor profile.
• Cayenne Pepper – Use this for a hint of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Salt and Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; freshly ground can elevate your dish even more.

For Garnishing
• Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and a touch of freshness to your dish before serving.

This ingredients list is your passport to a Hawaiian culinary escape, allowing you to recreate the best garlic shrimp experience right at home!

How to Make Best Garlic Shrimp

Prepare Shrimp: Pat the extra-large shrimp dry with paper towels and place them in a mixing bowl. This step helps achieve that perfect sear when cooking.
Coat Shrimp: Sprinkle the shrimp with all-purpose flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss gently to coat evenly, ensuring that each shrimp is seasoned to perfection.
Heat Skillet: Melt unsalted butter with olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Wait until it’s hot, but do not let the butter brown, to keep the flavors bright.
Sauté Garlic: Add minced fresh garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. You want the garlic to become fragrant without turning brown, which can alter its flavor.
Cook Shrimp – First Side: Arrange the coated shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for approximately 2 minutes or until the bottom turns a lovely pink hue.
Flip Shrimp: Carefully flip each shrimp over and cook for an additional 2 minutes. They should be just cooked through and beautifully vibrant.
Finish with Lemon Juice: Remove the skillet from the heat and toss the shrimp with a splash of fresh lemon juice. Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor if desired.
Serve: Serve the shrimp immediately, drizzled generously with the garlic butter sauce from the skillet. It’s best enjoyed hot, bringing all that delicious flavor to your plate.

Optional: Pair with pineapple rice for an extra Hawaiian touch.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

To create a delightful meal that captivates the senses, consider these delicious pairings.

Pineapple Rice: This sweet and savory dish harmonizes beautifully with the rich garlic shrimp, offering a tropical touch.
Roasted Hawaiian Vegetables: A medley of vibrant bell peppers, zucchini, and onions adds color and a satisfying crunch to balance the dish’s buttery elements.
Coconut Coleslaw: The creaminess and light sweetness of coconut coleslaw cools down the spice while providing a refreshing contrast to each bite.
Garlic Bread: Sopping up the garlic butter sauce with crusty garlic bread is an experience that nobody wants to miss! The textures meld perfectly.
Grilled Asparagus: Tender, charred asparagus brings a delightful earthy flavor that complements the shrimp while adding a pop of green to your plate.
Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa enhances the dish’s tropical vibe, offering a light, zesty kick that complements the garlic richness of the shrimp.
Lemonade: A refreshing glass of lemonade will cleanse the palate, evoking sunny days while balancing out the savory notes of the garlic shrimp.
Coconut Flan: End on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, echoing the tropical theme and leaving a lasting impression on your guests.

Each pairing not only complements the flavors of the best garlic shrimp but also creates a full meal experience that warms the heart and fills the belly.

How to Store and Freeze Best Garlic Shrimp

Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The shrimp may lose some of their original texture upon reheating, so enjoy them fresh when possible.

Freezer: You can freeze cooked best garlic shrimp for up to 3 months. Place in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.

Airtight Storage: For best results, ensure your storage container is airtight to prevent freezer burn, which can affect flavor and texture.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, gently reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of butter or a bit of lemon juice to keep them moist.

Best Garlic Shrimp Variations

Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful twists and swaps that will take you on a flavor adventure.

Seafood Swap: Replace shrimp with scallops for a luxurious touch or use chicken for a heartier option. Each protein has its own unique flavor and texture, ensuring a delicious outcome.
Veggie Boost: Incorporate colorful bell peppers, snap peas, or zucchini for a nutritious boost that also adds a delightful crunch. This makes the dish more visually appealing and satisfying.
Citrus Twist: Swap lemon juice for fresh lime juice, giving the dish a bright and zesty flavor that complements the garlic beautifully. It’s a small change with a big impact!
Heat It Up: Increase the cayenne pepper for those who crave extra spice, or add a splash of your favorite hot sauce before serving to really get the taste buds tingling.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, or chives instead of parsley. Their unique flavors can elevate the dish to new heights.
Creamy Comfort: For a richer sauce, stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk just before serving. This will create a velvety texture and add a tropical flair to your garlic shrimp.
Nutty Finish: Consider sprinkling toasted sesame seeds or chopped nuts, like macadamia nuts, on top for an unexpected crunch and nutty flavor that plays beautifully with the richness of the dish.
Pasta Pairing: Enjoy this garlic shrimp over a bed of linguine or fettuccine instead of serving it alone, transforming it into a hearty meal that is filling and delicious.

Embrace your creativity and let this recipe be the canvas for wonderful flavors!

Expert Tips for Best Garlic Shrimp

• Shrimp Quality: Always opt for fresh, extra-large shrimp for the best garlic shrimp experience—frozen shrimp may lead to a less desirable texture.

• Heat Control: Make sure the skillet is adequately heated before adding garlic to avoid burning it. This keeps your dish’s flavor bright and vibrant.

• Seasoned Coating: Don’t skip on tossing shrimp in the flour and spices; this helps create a delicious crust and enhances the flavors in the final dish.

• Watch the Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant—overcooking turns it bitter, which can detract from the lovely, savory taste you’re aiming for.

• Serving Fresh: Best enjoyed immediately, this dish shines when served hot. If reheating, do so gently to preserve the shrimp’s juiciness.

• Adjusting Spice: If you enjoy a kick, be generous with the cayenne pepper, but taste as you go to ensure it fits everyone’s palate.

Make Ahead Options

These Best Garlic Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can coat the shrimp with flour, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they’re ready to go when you are. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. The garlic butter sauce, however, is best made fresh; you can prepare it just before cooking. When you’re ready to enjoy this dish, sauté the coated shrimp in the garlic butter for about 4 minutes until they’re perfectly pink and tender. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal with minimal effort, saving you time on busy weeknights!

Best Garlic Shrimp Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, go for extra-large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for optimal texture and flavor. Fresh shrimp are always recommended over frozen for the best results. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they’re thawed completely before cooking to avoid uneven results.

How long can I store leftover garlic shrimp?
For best quality, store any leftover best garlic shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The shrimp may lose a bit of their delightful texture during reheating, so it’s best to enjoy them fresh, but they can still be delicious when stored properly!

Can I freeze cooked garlic shrimp?
Certainly! You can freeze the best garlic shrimp for up to 3 months. Here’s how: Allow the shrimp to cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Afterward, transfer the shrimp into a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before gently reheating.

What should I do if my garlic burns while cooking?
Oh no! If your garlic burns, it’s essential to remove it immediately from the heat to prevent bitterness. If you notice it’s turning dark, quickly take it out and start over with fresh garlic. To avoid this in the future, make sure your skillet is at the right temperature—hot enough to sauté but not so hot that it burns the garlic in less than a minute.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Always a good question! This recipe contains shellfish, which is a common allergen. Additionally, if someone has a sensitivity to gluten, you can easily substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like almond flour or cornstarch. Always read ingredient labels and adapt for any specific dietary needs to ensure safety.

Can I add vegetables to the garlic shrimp?
Very much so! This dish is quite versatile. You can add colorful vegetables like bell peppers, snow peas, or asparagus during the cooking process to incorporate some extra nutrition and enhance the dish’s flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure the veggies are cooked but still retain some crunch.