Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp And Vegetables Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

There's something irresistible about the combination of juicy shrimp, tender vegetables, and rich garlic butter sauce sizzling together in one pan. This dish is quick, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

I first made this recipe on a whim, using up some frozen shrimp and whatever veggies I had in the fridge. To my surprise, it turned out to be a restaurant-worthy meal, packed with buttery goodness and garlicky aroma that filled the entire house. Now, it’s one of my favorite go-to meals whenever I need something fast, healthy, and bursting with flavor.

Why You'll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Vegetables

Get ready to fall in love with this easy, one-pan dinner that’s as simple as it is delicious.

First, it's incredibly quick to make. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a flavor-packed meal on the table, making it ideal for weeknights or last-minute dinners.

This dish is also packed with nutrients. Shrimp is a lean protein powerhouse, while the colorful mix of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals.

Minimal cleanup? Yes, please! Since everything cooks in one skillet, you’ll spend less time washing dishes and more time enjoying your meal.

Plus, it’s highly customizable. Swap out the veggies, adjust the seasoning, or even toss it with pasta or rice for a heartier meal.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in simple, fresh ingredients that come together effortlessly to create bold, delicious flavors.

Shrimp is the star of the dish, so choose large or jumbo shrimp for the best texture. Fresh shrimp is always ideal, but frozen shrimp works just as well—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Butter and garlic form the foundation of the sauce. The butter adds richness, while freshly minced garlic brings out that signature savory depth. For an extra punch, use a mix of salted and unsalted butter to balance the flavors.

Vegetables add both color and texture. Bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus work beautifully, but you can use whatever you have on hand. Keep the pieces uniform in size so they cook evenly.

A touch of lemon juice brightens up the entire dish. Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the garlic butter sauce, making the shrimp and veggies taste even fresher.

For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. It’s optional, but a little spice takes the flavor up a notch without overpowering the buttery goodness.

How To Make This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Vegetables

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps, with everything cooking in a single skillet.

Start by preparing the shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry to prevent excess moisture in the pan. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and melt a tablespoon of butter. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

In the same pan, melt another tablespoon of butter and add the chopped vegetables. Stir occasionally, cooking until they’re just tender but still have a slight crispness. This should take about 4-5 minutes.

Lower the heat to medium, then add minced garlic and a final tablespoon of butter. Stir quickly to avoid burning the garlic, letting it become fragrant within 30 seconds.

Return the shrimp to the pan, squeezing fresh lemon juice over everything. Toss everything together for another minute or two, just until the shrimp is heated through. Serve immediately and enjoy the garlicky, buttery goodness.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later.

Let the shrimp and vegetables cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. When reheating, use a skillet over low heat with a small pat of butter to keep the shrimp tender and prevent them from becoming rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is easy to customize, so feel free to switch things up based on what you have in your kitchen.

Swap out the shrimp for chicken or scallops if you prefer a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Use different vegetables like broccoli, cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or green beans for a unique twist on the dish.

Add a splash of white wine to the garlic butter sauce for an extra layer of depth and richness.

Serve over pasta, rice, or quinoa to make it a more filling meal.

For a dairy-free version, replace butter with olive oil or dairy-free butter alternatives while keeping the same rich flavor.

Experimenting with different flavors and ingredients makes this recipe even more exciting. No matter how you customize it, the garlicky butter sauce will always be the star!