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; Juice of 1 lemon; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: Classic Collection

I absolutely love preparing Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine; it's a dish that comes together in a flash, yet feels luxurious. The rich, buttery flavor combined with the deep taste of white wine elevates this meal to something truly special. I often make this for dinner when I want to impress guests with minimal effort. The aroma wafting through the kitchen is irresistible, and every bite is a celebration of flavors that transports you straight to the coast. Trust me, once you try this, it will become a go-to recipe in your rotation.

Created by

Briony Ashcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-08T12:53:37.021Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without compromising on flavor. Using fresh ingredients makes all the difference, and my tip is to always use quality shrimp and a good white wine. It truly enhances the overall dish. I love to serve this with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, making it a complete meal.

Over time, I’ve fine-tuned this recipe, adjusting the garlic to suit my taste. The key is to sauté the garlic just until fragrant without letting it burn, as this can make the dish taste bitter. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley at the end, and you’ve got an elegant, restaurant-worthy dish right at home!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and aromatic garlic flavor that is irresistible
Quick and easy preparation makes it perfect for weeknight dinners
Elegant presentation great for entertaining guests

      

Choosing the Right Shrimp

When it comes to shrimp for this dish, opting for large shrimp is key. They not only provide a satisfying bite but also hold up well against the rich garlic butter sauce. I recommend using shrimp that are labeled as 'wild-caught' for their superior flavor. If you're purchasing frozen shrimp, make sure they are fully thawed before cooking; this ensures even cooking and prevents a rubbery texture. Shrimp that are glossy and slightly translucent are signs of freshness, while a dull appearance can indicate that they are past their prime.

If you're managing dietary restrictions or preferences, you can swap shrimp for scallops or even firm tofu. Just remember, if using tofu, press it well to absorb the flavors from the garlic and white wine. Adjust cooking times accordingly, as tofu will require a few more minutes to crisp up in the skillet compared to shrimp.

Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce in Garlic Butter Shrimp is unarguably the star of the show. To create a velvety texture, ensure the butter is melted over medium heat — too high, and it may burn before the garlic is ready. After sautéing the garlic, the addition of white wine and lemon juice should be done with caution. Look for a dry white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which will balance the buttery richness beautifully. Allow the sauce to simmer and reduce slightly; this enhances the flavors and creates a thicker consistency to cling to the shrimp.

It's also essential to adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process. As the sauce reduces, taste for salt and pepper and make adjustments as needed. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a pleasant heat if desired, making the dish even more complex and flavorful.

Serving Suggestions

For an impressive presentation, serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp over a bed of al dente pasta like linguine or fettuccine. The noodles will soak up the delicious sauce, making every bite flavorful. Another excellent option is to serve it alongside crusty garlic bread, ideal for sopping up the rich sauce. You can also consider pairing it with a fresh green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

If you have leftovers, the dish can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or extra wine to prevent drying out. However, I recommend consuming the dish fresh, as the shrimp's texture can diminish when reheated.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine:

Ingredients

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

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start cooking for a smooth experience!

Instructions

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

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Be cautious not to let the garlic burn.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side.

Add Wine and Lemon Juice

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring gently to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with crusty bread or over pasta.

Enjoy your deliciously rich Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a slight kick. Pair the dish with a glass of the same white wine used for cooking.

Ingredient Variations

While large shrimp offer the best flavor and texture for this dish, you can also use medium or even smaller shrimp if that's what you have on hand. Just be mindful of cooking times, as smaller shrimp will cook more quickly, usually in about 2-3 minutes per side. You can also substitute an equal amount of cooked crab meat or lobster for a decadent twist that feels luxurious while maintaining the essence of a seafood dish.

For a non-seafood version, try using chicken breast sliced into thin strips. The same cooking principles apply: Ensure you cook the chicken thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F, and adjust the cooking time to about 5-6 minutes per side.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning to serve Garlic Butter Shrimp for a gathering, you can prepare certain elements ahead of time. For instance, you can peel and devein the shrimp in advance and store them in the refrigerator, which can save you time just before serving. You can also pre-mince the garlic and chop the parsley, keeping everything ready for quick assembly when the time comes to cook.

However, I recommend cooking the dish right before serving for the best taste and texture. The shrimp can become rubbery if they sit in the sauce too long. If you do need to prepare it ahead of time, just reheat gently and serve immediately.

Pairing Wine with Your Dish

Since white wine is a key ingredient in this recipe, you'll also want to consider pairing the right wine with your meal. A crisp, chilled Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and butter while enhancing the overall dining experience. For a more fruit-forward option, a Chardonnay can offer a lovely contrast with its buttery notes. Just be sure to pour a glass for yourself as you cook—the aroma of the wine paired with garlic will whet your appetite.

If you're not a fan of white wine, you can substitute it with vegetable or chicken stock. Just remember, the flavor profile will be different, so adjust seasonings accordingly to ensure the sauce is still rich and savory.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure they are completely thawed and drained before cooking.

→ What type of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best.

→ Can this dish be prepared ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prep the ingredients ahead and cook just before serving.

→ What sides pair well with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

Crusty bread, spaghetti, or a fresh garden salad make excellent sides.