Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites

From the moment the tantalizing aroma of garlic and butter began to waft from my kitchen, I knew these Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites were going to be a hit. And boy, was I right! Last weekend, I decided to whip up a batch of these little morsels as an appetizer for a casual get-together with friends, and they vanished within minutes. The succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked and bathed in a rich, garlicky, buttery sauce, were simply irresistible. Even my kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured them with gusto, asking for seconds (and thirds!). What I loved most about this recipe, besides the incredible flavor, was how incredibly easy and quick it was to prepare. From fridge to table in under 30 minutes, these Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites are now my go-to appetizer when I want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, flavor-packed appetizer that’s guaranteed to be a success, look no further – these are it!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (about 30-40 shrimp)
• ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio), optional, but recommended for depth of flavor
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, plus extra for garnish
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are fully thawed if using frozen shrimp and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial as it helps the shrimp sear beautifully and prevents them from steaming in the pan. Patting them dry also ensures the flavorful garlic butter sauce clings to them perfectly.
2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, preferably cast iron or stainless steel, melt the butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic will taste bitter. Keep the heat at medium to medium-low to prevent burning. Stir constantly to ensure even cooking. The aroma of sautéed garlic at this stage is incredibly inviting and sets the stage for the deliciousness to come.
3. Deglaze with White Wine (Optional but Recommended): If using white wine, pour it into the skillet after sautéing the garlic. Increase the heat slightly to medium-high and let the wine simmer for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, adds a wonderful layer of complexity and depth to the sauce. The alcohol will evaporate, leaving behind the rich flavor of the wine, which complements the garlic and shrimp beautifully. If you prefer to skip the wine, you can proceed directly to the next step, but the wine truly elevates the dish.
4. Add Lemon Juice and Red Pepper Flakes: Stir in the fresh lemon juice and red pepper flakes (if using). The lemon juice adds a bright, zesty counterpoint to the richness of the butter and garlic, while the red pepper flakes provide a subtle warmth that enhances the overall flavor profile. Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference – a pinch for a gentle warmth, or a bit more if you like a spicier kick.
5. Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this will cause the shrimp to steam rather than sear. If necessary, cook the shrimp in batches. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of your shrimp, so keep a close eye on them. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery and tough, while perfectly cooked shrimp will be tender and juicy. You’ll know they are done when they are pink all the way through and slightly curled.
6. Season and Finish: Season the shrimp generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Fresh parsley adds a vibrant, herbaceous note that brightens up the dish and complements the garlic and lemon.
7. Serve Immediately: Transfer the Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites to a serving platter. Garnish with extra fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately while hot and the sauce is still luscious and flavorful. Provide crusty bread, baguette slices, or crackers for dipping into the delectable garlic butter sauce. These shrimp bites are best enjoyed right away when they are at their peak of flavor and texture.

Nutrition Facts

• Serving Size: Approximately 4-5 shrimp bites
• Servings Per Recipe: 6-8 servings (depending on portion size)
• (Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

Approximate Nutritional Information Per Serving (Estimated):

• Calories: 250-350 calories
• Protein: 20-25 grams
• Sodium: Varies depending on added salt

(Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate based on common ingredients and online calculators. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.)

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes (including peeling and deveining shrimp, mincing garlic, and chopping parsley)
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites

These versatile Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites can be served in numerous delicious ways, making them perfect for various occasions. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Classic Appetizer:
  • Arrange the shrimp bites on a platter.
  • Serve with crusty bread, baguette slices, or assorted crackers for dipping into the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
  • Provide small appetizer plates and napkins for easy serving and enjoyment.
  • Garnish the platter with fresh parsley sprigs and lemon wedges for visual appeal and an extra squeeze of citrus if desired.
• Elegant Skewers:
  • Thread 2-3 shrimp bites onto small skewers.
  • Drizzle any remaining garlic butter sauce over the skewers.
  • This presentation is perfect for cocktail parties or more formal gatherings, making them easy to handle and eat.
  • Serve alongside a dipping bowl of extra garlic butter sauce for those who want even more flavor.
• Pasta Perfection:
  • Toss the Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites with cooked linguine, fettuccine, or spaghetti for a quick and satisfying meal.
  • The garlic butter sauce transforms into a delectable pasta sauce.
  • Add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra parsley for a complete and flavorful dish.
  • For added vegetables, consider tossing in some sautéed spinach, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus.
• Rice Bowl Delight:
  • Serve the shrimp bites over a bed of fluffy white rice, brown rice, or quinoa.
  • Spoon the garlic butter sauce generously over the rice and shrimp.
  • Add some steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or bell peppers for a balanced and wholesome meal.
  • A squeeze of fresh lime juice over the rice bowl can add a refreshing touch.
• Taco or Lettuce Wraps Filling:
  • Use the Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites as a flavorful filling for tacos or lettuce wraps.
  • Shredded cabbage, pico de gallo, avocado slices, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt make excellent accompaniments.
  • The garlic butter sauce adds a rich and savory element to these lighter serving options.
  • Warm tortillas or crisp lettuce cups provide the perfect vessels for these tasty shrimp bites.
• Bruschetta Topping:
  • Toast slices of baguette or ciabatta bread to make bruschetta.
  • Spoon the Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites and a bit of the garlic butter sauce over the toasted bread.
  • Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an elegant and flavorful appetizer.
  • This is a sophisticated and visually appealing way to serve these shrimp bites.

Additional Tips for Perfect Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: The key to tender and juicy shrimp is to avoid overcooking them. Shrimp cook quickly, so keep a close eye on them in the skillet. They are done when they turn pink and opaque and are slightly curled. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and lose their appealing texture. Err on the side of slightly undercooked if you’re unsure, as they will continue to cook slightly off the heat.
2. Use Fresh, High-Quality Shrimp: Whenever possible, opt for fresh, high-quality shrimp. If using frozen shrimp, ensure they are fully thawed and patted thoroughly dry before cooking. Fresh shrimp will have a better flavor and texture. If using frozen, look for shrimp that are labeled “wild-caught” or “sustainably sourced” for better quality and environmental responsibility.
3. Don’t Burn the Garlic: Garlic is a crucial flavor component in this recipe, but burnt garlic will taste bitter and ruin the dish. Sauté the minced garlic over medium to medium-low heat and stir frequently to prevent burning. Aim for lightly golden and fragrant garlic, not dark brown or black. If you smell a strong, acrid smell, it’s likely burning, so remove the pan from the heat immediately.
4. Adjust the Heat to Your Preference: The recipe includes a suggestion for red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, omit them altogether or use just a pinch. For a spicier kick, add up to ½ teaspoon or even a little more. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a different type of heat.
5. Serve Immediately for Best Flavor and Texture: Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites are best enjoyed immediately after cooking while they are hot, juicy, and the garlic butter sauce is at its most luscious. The sauce can thicken slightly as it cools, so serving them promptly ensures the best possible dining experience. If you need to hold them for a short period, keep them warm in a low oven (around 200°F or 95°C), but be mindful that they are best when freshly made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites

Q1: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

A: While you can use pre-cooked shrimp, it’s not recommended for the best results. Pre-cooked shrimp can become rubbery when reheated. Raw shrimp cooked in the garlic butter sauce will be much more tender and flavorful as they absorb the sauce as they cook. If you must use pre-cooked shrimp, add them to the skillet at the very end, just to warm them through in the sauce, and be careful not to overheat them.

Q2: I don’t have white wine. Can I substitute it with something else or omit it?

A: Yes, you can omit the white wine if you don’t have it on hand. However, the white wine adds a wonderful layer of depth and complexity to the sauce. If you want to substitute it, you can use chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar effect, although the flavor profile will be slightly different. Lemon juice is essential for brightness, so don’t skip that.

Q3: Can I make Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites ahead of time?

A: It’s best to make and serve Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites fresh for the best flavor and texture. However, you can prep some of the components ahead of time. You can peel and devein the shrimp, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator. The garlic butter sauce is also best made fresh. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, being careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Q4: Can I use salted butter instead of unsalted butter?

A: It’s generally recommended to use unsalted butter in cooking and baking so you have better control over the salt level in the dish. If you only have salted butter, you can use it, but be sure to taste the shrimp bites after cooking and adjust the amount of added salt accordingly. You may need to use less salt than the recipe calls for.

Q5: What are some other herbs I can use besides parsley?

A: While fresh parsley is a classic and excellent choice for Buttery Garlic Shrimp Bites, you can experiment with other fresh herbs to change the flavor profile. Good alternatives include:

• Chives: Offer a mild oniony flavor.
• Cilantro: Adds a fresh, citrusy note (if you enjoy cilantro).
• Dill: Provides a slightly anise-like flavor that pairs well with seafood.
• Italian Parsley (Flat-leaf parsley): Has a more robust flavor than curly parsley and is also a great option.
• A combination of herbs: Try a mix of parsley and chives, or parsley and dill, for a more complex herbal flavor.

Print