Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine

Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup dry white wine; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Healthy Meals Favorites

When I first tried Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, it instantly became a favorite in our household. The combination of succulent shrimp, garlic, and a splash of white wine creates an irresistible aroma that fills the kitchen. Cooking the shrimp to perfection involves just the right timing, ensuring they remain tender and flavorful. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also elevates any weeknight dinner into a delightful experience. I can't wait to share this recipe with you, as it's one of my go-to meals for entertaining guests or enjoying a cozy night in.

Created by

Beatrice Holloway

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:37:37.044Z

For me, cooking Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine brings back fond memories of summer evenings spent by the seaside. The bright flavors of the shrimp combined with the buttery sauce make it an instant mood booster. While testing out various recipes, I discovered that deglazing the pan with white wine not only adds depth to the sauce but also enhances the overall taste. This small step made a significant difference in the final dish.

I've experimented with several variations, but the classic garlic and butter combination remains unbeatable. I often serve it over a bed of pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. It's a dish that never fails to impress, whether I'm cooking for family or for friends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory garlic butter sauce that enhances the shrimp's flavor
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Elegant enough for special occasions or date nights

Understanding the Key Ingredients

The star of Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine is undoubtedly the shrimp. Choosing high-quality, fresh shrimp is crucial. Look for shrimp that are firm, smell slightly oceanic, and have a glossy appearance. If fresh shrimp aren’t available, frozen shrimp can be a suitable alternative—just ensure they are properly thawed before cooking to allow for even seasoning and cooking. The flavor can be enhanced further by opting for shrimp with shells on, as they provide additional natural flavor during cooking.

Garlic plays an essential role in this recipe, not just as a flavor enhancer but also in creating that aromatic base. Minced garlic should be sautéed just until fragrant, around one minute on medium heat—this brings out its natural sweetness without allowing it to burn, which can lead to a bitter taste. Additionally, using unsalted butter allows you to control the level of salt in your dish, making it easy to prevent the shrimp from becoming overly salty.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

To achieve perfectly cooked shrimp, timing is key. As a rule of thumb, shrimp will take about 2-3 minutes per side. They are done when they turn a vibrant pink color and curl into a C-shape. Overcooking can lead to rubbery shrimp, so it's important to keep an eye on them. If you notice their edges becoming slightly golden before fully pink, it’s a sign that they are close to being done, so remove them from the heat slightly early to avoid overcooking.

When you add the white wine, it not only introduces acidity, balancing the richness of the butter but also helps deglaze the skillet. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to incorporate any flavorful browned bits. Letting the mixture simmer allows the alcohol in the wine to evaporate, concentrating the flavors. Aim for a light simmer; bubbles should be gentle, not boiling, which allows for a smooth, glossy sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp

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

Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp

In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink.

Add Wine and Finish

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, scraping the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the remaining butter until melted.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use a good quality dry white wine. Pair the dish with crusty bread or a light salad.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Garlic Butter Shrimp is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on low heat in a skillet to avoid rubbery shrimp. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider preparing the garlic butter sauce separately. You can make the sauce and then add cooked shrimp just before serving to maintain their tenderness and ensure the dish remains invitingly glossy.

Freezing is not recommended for this dish due to the delicate texture of shrimp. However, if you find yourself needing to freeze leftovers, place them in an airtight container and use them within a month. Reheat directly from frozen, but be cautious as shrimp may become tough if reheated too vigorously.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Garlic Butter Shrimp over a bed of pasta, rice, or creamy risotto to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad complements the richness of the dish nicely. If you're feeling adventurous, consider pairing it with garlic bread for an extra treat, perfect for sopping up any remaining sauce.

If you wish to elevate the dish further, you can finish it with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat or a splash of cream for an even richer sauce. Pairing the dish with a chilled glass of the same white wine used for cooking can enhance the dining experience, tying together the flavors beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for the best results.

→ What can I substitute for white wine?

You can use chicken or vegetable broth if you prefer to avoid alcohol.

→ How do I know when the shrimp are done?

The shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

For best flavor and texture, it's recommended to serve immediately, as shrimp can become rubbery if reheated.