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: Serves 4
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; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Balanced Collection

I absolutely love making Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine for a quick and elegant dinner. The succulent shrimp combined with the rich garlic butter sauce creates an irresistible dish that never fails to impress. I often prepare this when I want something special yet effortless, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is simply divine. Paired with a glass of chilled white wine, it transforms any ordinary evening into a delightful dining experience. Trust me when I say, you’ll keep coming back to this recipe!

Created by

Helena Whitby

Last updated on 2026-01-07T11:01:35.157Z

When I first tried Garlic Butter Shrimp with White Wine, I was instantly captivated by its flavors. The blend of garlic and butter creates a rich sauce that perfectly complements the shrimp. By deglazing the pan with white wine, I elevated the dish even further, making it feel like a gourmet meal. I love serving it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce.

As I continued to perfect my recipe, I discovered that using fresh shrimp made all the difference. The sweetness of the shrimp shines through, especially when seasoned simply with just a handful of ingredients. This not only simplifies the preparation process but also allows the natural flavors to stand out clearly.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously rich garlic butter flavor combined with a hint of white wine
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
Impressive enough to serve to guests, yet simple enough for everyday meals

      

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh, high-quality shrimp is crucial for this dish. I recommend sourcing them from a reputable seafood market. Look for shrimp with a clean scent and a firm texture. Fresh shrimp should be glossy and feel slightly springy when pressed. If you need to use frozen shrimp, ensure they are thawed properly in the refrigerator for several hours before cooking to maintain their texture.

The butter and garlic are equally important for building the sauce's rich flavor. Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness, and opt for fresh garlic instead of pre-minced varieties. Fresh garlic releases more oils and provides a robust flavor that enhances the dish significantly. When sautéing, be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

When cooking the shrimp, the key is to monitor their color closely. They should turn a vibrant pink and opaque within 2-3 minutes on each side, depending on their size. Overcooking shrimp can result in a rubbery texture, so keep an eye on them. If unsure, remove one from the pan and cut it open to check; it should be just opaque, not translucent.

Scraping the pan while adding the white wine is vital to incorporate all those flavorful caramelized bits. This step not only enhances the sauce's taste but also adds depth to the dish. Allow the wine to simmer for about 2 minutes to let the flavors meld; the sauce should thicken slightly but remain glossy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Garlic Butter Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. While pasta is a classic choice, consider serving it over barley or quinoa for a nutritious twist. A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the rich sauce. I also like to serve it with a light salad to balance the richness of the dish.

If you're looking to vary the flavors, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness right before serving. Additionally, incorporating vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes during the cooking process adds color and nutrients, making the dish even more visually appealing and satisfying.

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
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Directions

Sauté Garlic

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

Cook Shrimp

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

Add Wine

Pour in the white wine, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. Let it simmer for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately over pasta or with crusty bread.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For a little extra zing, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic. You can also substitute the white wine with chicken broth for a non-alcoholic version.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the Garlic Butter Shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheating should be done gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough. Adding a splash of white wine or broth can help rejuvenate the sauce and keep it from drying out during reheating.

Freezing is another option, but I recommend freezing only the shrimp separately from the sauce to preserve their texture. Place the shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. The sauce can be frozen in ice cube trays for later use, allowing for quick defrosting when you're ready to cook.

Dietary Substitutions

For those who are lactose intolerant, using a plant-based butter alternative works well in this recipe while still providing a rich flavor. Products made from coconut or almond oil can mimic the effects of butter without the dairy.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, simply serve the shrimp with gluten-free pasta or over a bed of vegetables. For a low-carb alternative, consider using zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice as a base to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

→ What type of white wine should I use?

A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works best. Avoid sweet wines as they can alter the flavor balance.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

It's best to serve it fresh, but you can prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance and then add the shrimp right before serving.

→ What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp?

This dish is fantastic served over pasta, rice, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.