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; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Authentic World Food Collection

When I first made Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was blown away by the simplicity and depth of flavor. A few fresh ingredients can create such a luxurious dish! The combination of succulent shrimp, fragrant garlic, and rich butter paired with a splash of white wine transforms an everyday meal into something extraordinary. I love serving it over pasta or with crusty bread to mop up the incredible sauce. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Created by

Rachel Green

Last updated on 2026-01-08T13:49:34.801Z

When I first experimented with garlic butter in shrimp dishes, I didn’t expect how impactful a few quality ingredients could be. The sweetness of the shrimp paired with the richness of the butter creates a delightful balance. Adding the white wine not only elevates the flavor but enhances the overall texture of the sauce. I recommend using a dry white wine for the best results.

Over the years, I’ve refined my approach to this dish. I learned that sautéing the garlic just until fragrant before adding the shrimp makes a huge difference. It infuses the oil beautifully without burning, which is a common mistake. This technique has turned my Garlic Butter Shrimp into a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory flavor profile that captivates the senses
Quick preparation makes it perfect for busy weeknights
A stunning dish that impresses guests without much effort

      

Mastering the Technique

The key to achieving perfectly cooked shrimp lies in timing. You want them to be pink and opaque without becoming rubbery, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side over medium heat. Make sure to spread them out in the skillet to ensure even cooking. If your shrimp are crowded, they may steam instead of sear, resulting in a less appealing texture. Keeping an eye on the color change is crucial; once they start turning pink, it’s time to flip.

Sautéing the garlic until fragrant is another crucial step. This only takes about a minute but can make a significant difference—overcooking garlic can lead to bitterness. Keep the heat moderate and stir frequently to prevent it from sticking or browning too quickly. The goal is to have the garlic releasing its potent aroma without turning golden, ensuring the flavor remains fresh and bright in the dish.

Wine Selection and Flavor Profile

Choosing the right dry white wine is essential for enhancing the sauce's depth of flavor. Varieties like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work well due to their crisp acidity and fruitiness, which complement the richness of the butter. Avoid overly sweet wines as they may alter the balance of the dish. If you don’t want to use wine or prefer a non-alcoholic option, a splash of chicken broth with a squeeze of lemon can serve as a delightful substitute.

The wine not only adds a pleasant tartness but also aids in deglazing the pan, lifting caramelized bits off the bottom, which contributes to the overall texture and flavor. Letting the wine simmer allows it to reduce slightly and meld with the other ingredients, creating a luscious sauce that coats the shrimp beautifully. This technique is key for achieving a restaurant-quality dish right at home.

Ingredients

For the Shrimp

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

Serve hot with crusty bread or over pasta.

Instructions

Sauté Garlic

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

Cook Shrimp

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.

Garnish and Serve

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

Enjoy your flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, choose fresh shrimp and a good quality wine that you would drink. Adjust the amount of garlic based on your personal taste preference.

Serving Suggestions

While Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine is fantastic on its own, pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. A bed of al dente pasta tossed in olive oil or a light cream sauce will soak up the savory garlic butter perfectly. Alternatively, crusty bread is wonderful for sopping up any leftover sauce, ensuring you don’t miss a drop of that delicious flavor.

Experimenting with sides can also enhance your dinner experience. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp dish, balancing the overall palate. Roasted vegetables, particularly asparagus or broccoli, not only add vibrant color but also provide a lovely texture contrast, making the meal feel even more special.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Adding a splash of broth or a bit of water can help maintain moisture and keep the shrimp tender. Microwaving is also an option, but be sure to do it in short intervals to avoid overcooking.

For meal prep, while I recommend cooking shrimp fresh for the best flavor, you can pre-prep ingredients like minced garlic and chopped parsley ahead of time. Keep shrimp frozen until you’re ready to make the dish. This allows you to whip up a luxurious meal whenever you want with minimal effort while preserving the quality of the shrimp.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just ensure the shrimp are thawed and patted dry before cooking.

→ What type of white wine is best for cooking?

Dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio work best.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes during the sautéing process for a bit of heat.

→ Can I use olive oil instead of butter?

You can, but the traditional richness of the dish comes from the butter. Olive oil will change the flavor profile.