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; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Highlighted under: Quick Planning

I love making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine for its incredible simplicity and bold flavors. In just under 20 minutes, you can bring the taste of a gourmet meal to your table. The combination of garlic, butter, and white wine creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the shrimp. Whenever I prepare this dish, I can’t help but be excited about the delightful aromas filling my kitchen. It’s a fantastic option for weeknight dinners or impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen!

Created by

Blythe Rowland

Last updated on 2026-01-07T14:49:34.946Z

When I first created this Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I wanted to combine my love for seafood with the elegance of wine in cooking. I found that using a good quality white wine not only elevates the flavor of the shrimp but also balances the richness of the butter. The key is to add the wine and let it simmer to enhance the dish's depth, creating a wonderful sauce.

I also discovered that cooking the shrimp just until they turn pink is crucial. If overcooked, they can become rubbery. This dish is all about timing and using fresh ingredients, which really makes a difference in the final taste!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Savory garlic and buttery sauce that envelops the shrimp perfectly.
Quick and easy preparation makes it a go-to for busy nights.
Pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of pasta.

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to achieving a rich and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp is in the quality of your ingredients, especially the shrimp and wine. Opt for large, fresh shrimp for the best texture, as frozen shrimp can sometimes lead to a rubbery outcome. When it comes to white wine, choose a dry variety like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. Avoid cooking wines, as they often contain added salt and preservatives that can alter the flavor of your dish.

Butter is another critical ingredient that not only adds richness but also serves as a base for the sauce. Unsalted butter allows you to control the seasoning more accurately. While garlic is famous for its potent flavor, its role here is to infuse the butter with depth. Always use fresh garlic instead of jarred; the latter can have an overly strong, sometimes bitter flavor.

Perfecting Your Technique

When it comes to cooking the shrimp, timing is crucial. Overcooking can lead to tough, chewy shrimp. Aim for a cooking time of about 3-4 minutes, stirring gently to ensure even cooking. The shrimp should turn from gray to a vibrant pink with opaque centers when done. I recommend having all ingredients prepped and ready so you can focus solely on the cooking process—this way, you won't rush and risk overcooking the shrimp.

Deglazing the pan with white wine not only adds flavor but also helps lift any delicious brown bits stuck to the bottom, known as the fond. This step is essential for building layers of flavor in your sauce. Allow the wine to simmer and reduce for a few minutes; watch closely as it transforms from a sharp taste to a more mellow, fragrant sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Garlic Butter 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
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Make sure to use the freshest shrimp possible for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cook the Shrimp

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

Add the Wine

Pour in the white wine and bring it to a simmer. Allow it to reduce for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Combine and Serve

Add the shrimp to the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

This dish is best enjoyed right away to appreciate the flavors and texture.

Pro Tips

Pair your Garlic Butter Shrimp with a glass of the same white wine you used in cooking for a delightful dining experience.

Serving Suggestions

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs exceptionally well with a variety of sides. One of my favorite options is serving it over a bed of al dente pasta, like linguine or fettuccine, allowing the sauce to coat each strand for a wonderful flavor experience. Alternatively, crusty bread is fantastic for sopping up the luscious sauce, making every bite count.

For added freshness, consider serving the dish with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity can balance the richness of the butter sauce and enhance the overall dining experience. If you want to make the dish a bit more vibrant, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage

While it's best to enjoy Garlic Butter Shrimp fresh, you can prepare some components in advance to save time. I often make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container. You can then sauté the shrimp and add the sauce just before serving. This approach allows the flavors to meld together beautifully but ensures you don't compromise on texture by overcooking the shrimp.

If you have leftovers, store them in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When reheating, do so gently on low heat to avoid rubbery shrimp. You can add a splash of white wine or a touch of water to help recreate that saucy goodness while warming it up.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp?

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

→ What type of white wine works best?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the dish wonderfully.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Vegetables like asparagus or spinach would be great additions.

→ How can I make this dish spicy?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter for a kick!