These pan-fried shrimp are quick, crispy, and packed with flavor! Just a little seasoning and a hot pan make them a tasty treat that’s hard to resist.
As soon as they hit the pan, the sizzle makes my kitchen feel magical. I love serving them with a squeeze of lemon and a side of rice. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Use large shrimp for the best bite. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen ones work well too! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.
Olive Oil or Butter: I love the rich flavor of butter in this recipe, but olive oil is a healthier alternative. Use what you prefer! You could also try coconut oil for a unique taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the dish a wonderful flavor. If you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can substitute, but fresh is always best for that punch.
Paprika: This adds color and a mild peppery flavor. Feel free to swap with smoked paprika for a deeper, smoky taste, or leave it out if you don’t have it.
Lemon Zest: Fresh lemon zest brightens up the dish. If you don’t have fresh lemons, lemon juice can work, though it won’t give the same boost of flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Shrimp?
Getting shrimp just right can be tricky! They need to be cooked quickly to keep them tender. Here’s how to nail it:
- Ensure your shrimp are dry before seasoning—this helps them sear properly.
- Use medium-high heat to achieve a nice golden color quickly, about 2 minutes per side is ideal.
- Watch closely: shrimp turn from translucent to opaque as they cook. They’re done when they form a “C” shape and are no longer see-through.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—give them space to fry evenly for that crispy outside.
With these tips, you’ll have deliciously cooked pan-fried shrimp every time! Enjoy!
How to Make Delicious Pan Fried Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 5-7 minutes of cooking time. In no time, you’ll have a delicious dish ready to impress your family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. This helps them get a nice sear! In a bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest until all the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasonings.
2. Heat the Pan:
Next, pour the olive oil or melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Let it heat up until it’s hot but not smoking. You’re aiming for nice sizzle when you add the shrimp!
3. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn—just until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, add the seasoned shrimp to the pan in a single layer. Let them cook undisturbed for about 2 minutes until the bottom is golden and crispy. Then, flip the shrimp over and cook for another 1-2 minutes until they’re opaque and nicely cooked throughout.
5. Finish Off the Dish:
Once the shrimp are cooked, remove the pan from heat. Sprinkle the shrimp with fresh chopped parsley and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. It adds a nice touch!
6. Serve It Up:
Serve your pan-fried shrimp immediately with lemon wedges on the side. A squeeze of lemon over the hot shrimp makes everything even tastier!
This simple pan-fried shrimp recipe yields juicy, flavorful shrimp with a mild crispness and fresh lemony notes. They’re perfect as an appetizer or main dish paired with rice or a salad. Enjoy your delicious meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw them before cooking. You can thaw shrimp by placing them in a sealed bag under cold running water for about 10-15 minutes or leaving them in the fridge overnight. Pat them dry to ensure they sear well.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to add some heat, consider increasing the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the recipe. You could also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or serve with a hot sauce on the side for an extra kick!
Can I Use Other Types of Seafood?
Absolutely! This cooking method works great for scallops or even pieces of fish. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary; fish generally cooks a little faster than shrimp.
What Are the Best Storage Tips for Leftovers?
Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent them from getting rubbery. Enjoy them cold in a salad if you prefer!
