Updated June 2025: This recipe has been retested and rewritten by Chef Cory using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Real kitchen photography is being added as part of our site-wide refresh.
Easy & Delicious One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe
This One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp is the easiest, most delicious seafood dish you’ll ever make! In just 15 minutes, this lemon garlic shrimp recipe is packed with fresh garlic, butter, and a splash of white wine for a mouthwatering meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or a light, healthy dinner!
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A Quick and Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe That’s Bursting with Fresh Flavor
This one pan lemon garlic shrimp is a quick, clean, and flavor-packed meal you can pull off in under 20 minutes.
Juicy shrimp are sautéed in olive oil with plenty of garlic, then finished with a squeeze of fresh lemon and chopped parsley.
It’s light, bold, and crazy versatile — serve it over pasta, rice, or greens, or just mop up the buttery sauce with crusty bread.
It’s one of those no-fuss dishes that always tastes like you put in way more effort than you actually did.
Why This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe Will Change Your Life
✔ One pan, zero stress: Because who enjoys washing dishes?
✔ 15 minutes start to finish: You’ll spend more time deciding what movie to watch than cooking this.
✔ Packed with nutrients: Shrimp is loaded with protein, omega-3s, and vitamin B12 (translation: good for your brain, heart, and energy levels).
✔ That sauce: Buttery, garlicky, lemony perfection that demands a slice of bread for dipping.
Table of Contents
What Makes This One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Better Than the Rest?
There are a million lemon garlic shrimp recipes floating around the internet, but this one? This one is next level. Here’s why:
1. The Sauce is Out of This World
Most recipes throw in lemon, garlic, and butter and call it a day. But balance is everything, and that’s where this recipe shines.
I add a touch of honey to mellow out the acidity and a splash of white wine to deepen the flavor. The result? A sauce that’s not just good—it’s drinkable.
2. It’s Fast, but Not Rushed
Sure, shrimp cook in minutes, but the secret to an unforgettable dish is letting the flavors develop.
We take the extra step to deglaze the pan with wine (or seafood stock), scraping up all those golden bits that make this dish rich and restaurant-quality.
3. A Perfectly Balanced Heat Kick
A little red pepper flakes and smoked paprika bring in a warm, smoky depth, elevating the shrimp beyond the usual “garlic and lemon” routine.
It’s just enough heat to keep things exciting without setting your mouth on fire.
4. Fresh Herbs Matter
Most recipes stick to parsley (which is great), but I also throw in fresh basil—and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer.
The subtle sweetness of basil plays beautifully with the citrus and garlic, making this dish feel brighter and more complex.
5. One Pan, Zero Fuss, Maximum Flavor
This recipe isn’t just easy—it’s practically foolproof.
✔ No complicated techniques
✔ Minimal ingredients, all maxed out on flavor
✔ One pan = less cleanup
6. It’s Super Versatile
Some shrimp recipes only work with pasta or only work as an appetizer. This one?
✔ Over pasta – Toss it with angel hair for a restaurant-quality meal.
✔ With crusty bread – Because that sauce is liquid gold.
✔ In tacos – Shrimp tacos with garlic butter and lemon? Yes, please.
✔ Over rice or quinoa – Keep it simple and light.
✔ As a salad topper – Turn it into a protein-packed meal with fresh greens.
7. No Rubber Shrimp Here
Overcooked shrimp are the worst—rubbery, dry, and sad. This recipe ensures perfectly tender, juicy shrimp every single time. The secret? A scorching hot pan and just 1-2 minutes per side.
8. It Tastes Like Something You’d Get at a High-End Seafood Restaurant
But you made it at home in 15 minutes, in your PJs, while listening to your favorite playlist.
9. Even People Who “Don’t Like Seafood” Love It
I’ve had self-proclaimed shrimp haters try this dish and completely change their minds. The sauce is that good.
10. It’s Not Just a Meal—It’s an Experience
This isn’t just shrimp cooked in garlic butter—it’s a medley of bright citrus, rich butter, delicate heat, and deep umami from the wine and capers.
Every bite hits you with layered, bold flavors, making it way more than just a simple shrimp dish.
A Personal Story – My Love for Garlic Butter Shrimp
The first time I made garlic butter shrimp, I was fresh off a trip to the Mediterranean, where I spent two glorious weeks eating my weight in fresh seafood.
Every meal was simple—just olive oil, garlic, lemon, and seafood pulled straight from the ocean.
Inspired (and craving those flavors back home), I threw some shrimp in a pan, added a ridiculous amount of garlic, and finished it off with butter, white wine, and lemon.
And just like that—this lemon garlic shrimp recipe was born.
Now? It’s a weekly staple in my house. And every time I make it, I’m instantly transported back to that little seaside café in Sicily—except now, instead of overlooking the ocean, I’m dodging my kids as they try to steal shrimp straight from the pan.
What to Serve with One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
This One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides!
Here are some delicious serving ideas to round out your meal:
1. Pasta & Grains
✔ Linguine or Angel Hair Pasta – Toss the shrimp and sauce with pasta for a restaurant-quality meal.
✔ Garlic Butter Rice – The sauce soaks into the rice, making every bite irresistible.
✔ Quinoa or Farro – A protein-packed, nutty alternative for a healthier twist.
2. Bread for Dipping
✔ Crusty Artisan Bread – Perfect for soaking up every drop of that garlic butter sauce.
✔ Toasted Baguette Slices – Lightly crisped with olive oil for the ultimate pairing.
3. Light & Fresh Sides
✔ Grilled or Roasted Vegetables – Asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers add color and texture.
✔ Arugula or Spinach Salad – A light lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal fresh and balanced.
✔ Steamed Broccolini – A simple, nutritious side that pairs beautifully.
4. Low-Carb Options
✔ Cauliflower Rice – Soaks up the sauce like a dream while keeping things keto-friendly.
✔ Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) – A fresh, light alternative to pasta.
5. Fun Serving Ideas
✔ Shrimp Tacos – Load these shrimp into warm tortillas with avocado and a drizzle of crema.
✔ Over a Baked Potato – A surprising but delicious way to serve this dish!
✔ As a Bruschetta Topping – Spoon shrimp and sauce over toasted baguette slices for an elegant appetizer.
No matter how you serve it, this Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe is going to be a hit. Grab your favorite side and enjoy!
Equipment & Tools
✔ Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan – For the perfect sear and even cooking.
✔ Tongs – To flip the shrimp without splashing that glorious sauce.
✔ Microplane or Zester – For fresh lemon zest (trust me, it makes a difference).
✔ Citrus Juicer – To get every last drop of fresh lemon juice.
✔ Garlic Press (Optional) – If you want to make mincing garlic extra easy.
✔ Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For prepping shallots, herbs, and garlic.
✔ Measuring Spoons & Cups – Because precision = perfect flavor.
✔ Small Bowl – To mix seasoning before tossing it on the shrimp.
✔ Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – For stirring that incredible sauce.
Now that you’ve got everything you need—let’s cook!
The Recipe: One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Get ready to make the most irresistible One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp you’ve ever tasted! Imagine perfectly seared shrimp, sizzling in a rich, buttery garlic sauce with fresh lemon juice, a splash of white wine, and a touch of honey to balance it all out.
Add a little heat from red pepper flakes, fresh herbs for brightness, and capers for that briny kick—and you’ve got a dish that’s so good, you’ll be fighting over the last bite!
Best part? It’s done in just 15 minutes with only one pan to clean. Grab your skillet and let’s make magic happen!
One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
4
servings5
minutes10
minutes320
kcalThis One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp is a quick and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp seared to perfection, then coated in a rich garlic butter sauce with fresh lemon juice, white wine, and a touch of honey for balance. Finished with red pepper flakes, fresh herbs, and capers for a bold, restaurant-quality taste—all in just 15 minutes! Perfect for serving over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up every drop of that irresistible sauce.
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Ingredients
1 ½ lbs large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on for extra flavor)
3 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small shallot, finely diced
1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for spice preference)
½ tsp smoked paprika
Juice and zest of 1 large lemon
3 tbsp unsalted butter
¼ cup dry white wine (or seafood stock for a no-alcohol version)
2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
½ tsp flaky sea salt
½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
1 tsp honey (balances out the acidity like magic!)
1 tbsp capers, drained (optional, for extra briny goodness)
Lemon wedges for serving
Directions
- Get That Pan Hot!
-Heat a large cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan over medium-high heat. Add 2 tbsp olive oil and swirl to coat. - Sear the Shrimp to Perfection
-Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
-Add shrimp to the pan in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
-Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly golden.
-Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside. - Build the Flavor Bomb
-Lower heat to medium, add the remaining olive oil and butter.
-Toss in the garlic and shallot—sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
-Add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, and capers (if using), stirring for another 30 seconds. - The Magic Sauce
-Pour in the white wine (or seafood stock), scraping up any bits stuck to the pan.
-Let it simmer and reduce for 1-2 minutes.
Stir in the lemon juice and honey, letting it meld into the sauce. - Bring It All Together
-Return the shrimp to the pan, tossing to coat in the sauce.
-Let them cook for 1 minute, just until warmed through.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and basil. - Serve & Devour
-Garnish with extra lemon wedges and serve immediately. - If you tried this recipe and loved it, do me a quick favor—give it a 5-star rating and leave a comment below! It really helps more people find the recipe, and I’d love to hear how it turned out for you!
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Chef’s Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp
✔ Use fresh, wild-caught shrimp – Trust me, it makes all the difference.
✔ Don’t overcook – Shrimp cooks fast. The moment they turn pink, take them off the heat.
✔ Balance is key – The honey might seem small, but it rounds out the acidity perfectly.
✔ Get the pan hot – This gives the shrimp that perfect golden sear.
Caloric Breakdown per Serving (Approximate):
- Shrimp (1.5 lbs): ~160 kcal
- Olive oil (3 tbsp): ~360 kcal (divided among servings)
- Butter (3 tbsp): ~300 kcal (divided among servings)
- Garlic & Shallot: ~10 kcal
- White Wine (¼ cup): ~40 kcal
- Lemon Juice & Zest: ~5 kcal
- Honey (1 tsp): ~20 kcal
- Herbs & Spices: Negligible
Macronutrient Estimate per Serving:
- Protein: ~30g
- Carbohydrates: ~6g
- Fats: ~18g
This dish is high in protein, moderate in healthy fats, and low in carbs, making it great for a Mediterranean, Keto, or Paleo diet when paired with the right sides!
The Only One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp Recipe You’ll Ever Need
If you’ve made it this far, you’re now fully armed with everything you need to create the best One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp of your life.
It’s fast, fresh, and bursting with restaurant-quality flavor, all in just 15 minutes—with only one pan to clean.
The combination of garlic butter, fresh lemon, a touch of honey, and a splash of white wine creates a sauce so good, you’ll want to drink it straight from the pan (I won’t judge).
Whether you’re serving it over pasta, with crusty bread, or as shrimp tacos, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious.
So, if you’ve been searching for that perfect shrimp dish that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but impressive enough for guests—this is it. Once you try it, you’ll never need another lemon garlic shrimp recipe again.
Now, let’s make this happen! Try it out, and let me know how it turned out in the comments! And if you snap a pic, tag me on Instagram @dealiciousness—because nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen wins.
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know About One Pan Lemon Garlic Shrimp
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
The best way to do this is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes. Pat them dry with paper towels to avoid excess moisture in the pan, which can prevent that perfect sear.
2. What can I use instead of white wine?
If you prefer a non-alcoholic option, swap the white wine for seafood broth, chicken broth, or even a splash of fresh lemon juice with a bit of water.
You’ll still get great depth of flavor without the alcohol.
3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or butter.
Avoid microwaving—shrimp can become rubbery if overheated!
Got more questions? Drop them in the comments, and I’ll be happy to help!
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