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: Everyday World Food Collection

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine when I want to impress my guests or enjoy a cozy night in. The combination of succulent shrimp, aromatic garlic, and rich butter creates a dish that's not only flavorful but also visually stunning. I often serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. The best part? It cooks in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick yet elegant meal.

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-01-08T11:45:43.832Z

When I first made Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was looking for a dish that balanced elegance and simplicity. The method of using white wine enhances the natural sweetness of the shrimp, creating a luscious sauce that’s packed with flavor. I was pleasantly surprised at how the acidity from the wine balances the richness of the butter perfectly!

Each time I prepare this dish, I’m reminded of the time I experimented with different herbs. I found that a touch of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a delightful fresh flavor that elevates the dish. Keep the heat steady to avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be juicy and tender!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Juicy shrimp enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce
A perfect blend of flavors from garlic, butter, and white wine
Quick and impressive dish for weeknight dinners or special occasions

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a rich flavor in Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine lies in the quality of your ingredients. Using large shrimp is crucial; they have a meatier texture and better flavor than smaller varieties. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if you can only find frozen, make sure to thaw them properly before cooking to avoid a watery texture. Additionally, the choice of white wine can significantly enhance the dish—opt for a dry wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio that complements rather than overpowers the other flavors.

Garlic plays a starring role in this dish, and using fresh garlic rather than jarred is essential for that aromatic depth. When you sauté garlic, keep an eye on it to prevent burning; it should become fragrant with a slight golden hue—this usually takes about a minute over medium heat. The butter helps carry the flavor of the garlic and adds richness, while the lemon juice gives a refreshing acidity that balances the richness of the butter.

Lastly, fresh parsley not only brightens up the dish with color but also adds a burst of freshness. When choosing parsley, look for vibrant leaves that are not wilted. Chopping it finely will release its essential oils, enhancing its flavor in the final presentation. Remember, the timing and order of adding ingredients can make a difference, so prepare everything in advance for a smooth cooking experience.

Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Cooking shrimp may seem straightforward, but timing is critical. When you add the shrimp to the skillet, ensure they are arranged in a single layer. This allows even cooking and helps them sear nicely. Watch for color change; they should turn from translucent to a beautiful pink and opaque appearance in about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so keep a close eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they are done.

When you pour in the wine, be mindful of the heat. Increase to medium-high after adding the liquid to help it reduce and concentrate the flavors more rapidly. You want a gentle simmer; if the mixture bubbles too vigorously, the sauce may evaporate too quickly or scorch. A key tip I use is to let it simmer just enough to thicken slightly—look for it to cling to the back of a spoon without being too thick or gooey.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, consider cooking the shrimp just until they are nearly done and then cooling them rapidly. You can store them covered in the refrigerator for up to a day before finishing them in the sauce. This method allows for flavor development while maintaining a tender texture when reheated due to the quick final cooking process with the wine.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your 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 everything ready before you start cooking, as this dish comes together quickly!

Instructions

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

Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Cook the Shrimp

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

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Serve

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

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Always use fresh shrimp for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine can be served in various ways to suit your dining style. For a classic presentation, serve it over a bed of al dente pasta, allowing the sauce to coat every strand. You can use spaghetti, linguine, or any pasta that can hold onto the sauce well. If you prefer a lighter option, it pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli, adding a crunchy counterpoint to the rich shrimp.

Don’t forget about the side options! Crusty bread is a must-have for soaking up the garlicky sauce; a good baguette or ciabatta works well. Slice and toast the bread for a delightful crunch, which will contrast nicely with the tender shrimp. For a more elevated experience, consider adding a side salad with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the shrimp—arugula or mixed greens could do the trick Sunday brunch style.

For an elegant touch, you might garnish the dish with lemon wedges and additional parsley right before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also allows your guests to customize their experience by adding more acidity to brighten the dish even further. Pair it with a glass of the same wine you used in the recipe to create a harmonious dining experience.

Variations and Substitutions

While this recipe shines with shrimp, you can easily adapt it for other proteins such as scallops or even chicken. If using chicken, make sure to cook it through first before adding the garlic to avoid any risk of undercooking. Vegetarians can substitute shrimp with hearty mushrooms, like portobello or shiitake, which absorb flavors beautifully and provide a satisfying meaty texture when sautéed.

If you're looking to create a creamy version of this dish, consider finishing the sauce with a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone cheese to enrich the sauce further. This modification can create a luxurious texture that gives a new layer of flavor to the dish, making it even more indulgent. Additionally, infusing the sauce with a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Don't hesitate to experiment with ingredients based on what's in season or your personal preference. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme can add a different aromatic layer, while a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can deepen the umami flavor profile if you're thinking outside the box. Each of these variations opens up new culinary avenues while respecting the fundamental essence of Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ What type of white wine should I use?

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

→ How do I know when shrimp is cooked?

Shrimp is cooked when it turns pink and opaque. Overcooking can make them tough.

→ Can I make it in advance?

This dish is best served fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and cook the shrimp just before serving.