If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s bursting with flavor yet comes together in record time, the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe is your new best friend. This vibrant, satisfying skillet meal combines succulent shrimp and crisp asparagus, all coated in a garlicky, buttery sauce that’s simply irresistible. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels fancy without demanding hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite after a busy day or a delicious way to impress guests, this recipe is a keeper.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe plays a key role in creating that perfectly balanced meal. From the fresh, green asparagus to the rich butter and zesty lemon, these simple components come together to create a dish that dazzles in every bite.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined: The star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the buttery garlic flavors.
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2–3 inch pieces: Adds a fresh, crisp texture and vibrant color.
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced: Gives the dish its irresistible aroma and signature punch.
- 3 tbsp butter: Creates a rich, indulgent sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps in sautéing the asparagus and prevents sticking.
- Salt & black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance natural flavors.
- Red pepper flakes (optional but highly encouraged): Adds a subtle heat that wakes up your palate.
- Lemon (zest + juice, optional but 🔥): Brightens the dish with a fresh citrus zing.
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan for finishing (optional): Adds a final fresh or savory touch.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Start by heating a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. This combo kicks off the flavor foundation and preps your pan for sautéing.
Step 2: Cook the Asparagus
Toss in the asparagus pieces with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re bright green and just tender but still have a nice snap. Then, remove the asparagus to a plate so they don’t overcook while you prepare the shrimp.
Step 3: Shrimp Time
Add the remaining butter to your pan. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to brown the garlic as you want it to remain sweet and aromatic.
Step 4: Cook Shrimp
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the pan. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in juiciness and gives them that perfect texture.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked asparagus to the pan with the shrimp and toss everything gently to coat in the luscious garlic butter. If you’re using lemon zest and juice, add them now to brighten up the dish with freshness.
Step 6: Serve Immediately
Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or Parmesan if you feel like adding an elegant touch. Serve this dish hot to enjoy those buttery, garlicky notes at their best.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise, bringing a pop of color and that extra burst of freshness or savory indulgence.
Side Dishes
This recipe is fantastic on its own for a low-carb meal, but feel free to serve it over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up every bit of garlic butter. It also pairs beautifully with angel hair pasta to turn it into an ultra-comforting dish. And don’t forget crusty bread—it’s non-negotiable when you want to mop up that heavenly sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, plate the shrimp and asparagus over a bed of creamy polenta or tossed greens. You can also serve it in warmed tortilla wraps with a squeeze of extra lemon and a dash of chili flakes for a playful handheld twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, maintaining most of their flavor and texture, though the asparagus might soften slightly.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is not recommended because shrimp and asparagus can lose their texture after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet over medium heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a small splash of water or broth can help retain moisture without drying out the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and pat the shrimp dry thoroughly before cooking to get the best sear and avoid sogginess.
What if I don’t have fresh asparagus?
You can substitute with green beans or snap peas, though the cooking time may slightly vary depending on thickness and freshness.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but you can adjust the quantity or leave them out entirely if you prefer milder flavors.
Can I make this creamy?
Yes, just stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking for a luscious creamy version of the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe.
How do I get more sauce in this dish?
Adding a splash of white wine or chicken broth when cooking the garlic will create more flavorful sauce without watering down the dish.
Final Thoughts
There’s truly something magical about how quickly and easily the Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe comes together, yet it tastes like you’ve spent hours crafting it. This dish is perfect for anyone who loves bold flavors, simple ingredients, and a fast turnaround. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it part of your regular dinner rotation—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every time!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus (15 Minutes) Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp & Asparagus recipe that comes together in just 15 minutes. Tender asparagus and juicy shrimp are sautéed in a garlic butter sauce, brightened with lemon and finished with fresh parsley or Parmesan. Perfect for a fast, healthy dinner or light meal.
Ingredients
Shrimp & Vegetables
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled & deveined
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2–3 inch pieces
Sauce & Seasoning
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, but highly encouraged)
- Lemon zest and juice (optional but recommended)
- Fresh parsley or Parmesan for finishing (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the pan: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan and let the butter melt.
- Cook the asparagus: Add the trimmed asparagus pieces to the pan. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper. Sauté the asparagus for 3–4 minutes until they turn bright green and become just tender. Remove the asparagus from the pan and set aside on a plate to avoid overcooking.
- Shrimp time: Add the remaining butter to the pan. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
- Cook shrimp: Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Cook for 1–2 minutes on each side or until shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are cooked through.
- Bring it together: Return the cooked asparagus to the pan with the shrimp. Toss everything together gently to combine. Finish by adding lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice if using, to brighten the flavors.
- Serve immediately: Plate the shrimp and asparagus mixture and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use pre-trimmed asparagus and pre-peeled shrimp to save prep time.
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking for a better sear.
- For extra sauce, add a splash of white wine or chicken broth during cooking.
- This recipe can be adapted into a creamy version or made as a meal-prep meal.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, pasta (angel hair works best), or enjoy on its own for a low-carb option.
- Pair with crusty bread to mop up the delicious garlic butter sauce.
