Perfectly Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce

Name: Perfectly Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 7 min
Total time: 22 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Coastal
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup water; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning (optional); 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Lemon wedges for serving

Learn how to make steamed shrimp that’s juicy and full of flavor! My garlic butter recipe adds a delicious twist. Perfect for any occasion, try it now!

April 16, 2025
by Zara Thyme Kingston.

Jump to Recipe

0 Out of 5 Based on 0 ratings.

Table of Contents

Have you ever had that moment when you pop a perfectly cooked shrimp into your mouth, and it just melts? like, oh my gosh, right? there’s something so satisfying about how to make steamed shrimp .

It’s simple yet feels so pampering, like a treat-yourself meal you whip up right from your home kitchen. i’m telling you, steaming shrimp is one of those cooking methods that’ll have you feeling like a culinary genius.

Steamed shrimp is a dish that’s been around as long as folks have been enjoying seafood—think coastal towns and the aroma of the ocean.

What i love about it is how relevant it still is today. people are craving easy, flavorful meals, and this recipe is just that— super simple and showcases fresh shrimp in all its glory.

Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or even casual hangouts with friends. super cost-effective too! and let’s face it, everyone loves a good shrimp appetizer!

Recipe Overview

The origins of steaming shrimp date back to ancient coastal communities who knew just how to treat their shellfish and capture those ocean flavors.

Fast-forward to today, and steamed shrimp remains a top player in the seafood game—it’s popular on restaurant menus and dinner tables.

We're talking about just 15 minutes of prep and 7 minutes of cooking , making it a fast meal, perfect for busy folks.

The best part? usually, you can snag that shrimp for around $10-$15 per pound, depending on the season. seriously, you can serve a family of four without breaking the bank!

Key Benefits

Now let’s dive into the juicy stuff—the benefits. first up, health . did you know shrimp is packed with protein? yup, it’s a lean source with minimal calories.

Throw in some garlic butter, and you’re enhancing those flavors even more while keeping it healthy. speaking of health, it’s super low in carbs and can fit right in on almost any diet.

Plus, shrimp is rich in nutrients like selenium and vitamin b12, which are good for the heart and brain—win-win!

This steamed shrimp recipe is perfect for celebrations or just a casual wednesday dinner. easy shrimp recipes like this are great for impressing guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Who wouldn’t want that? also, it offers so many possibilities for customizing flavors, thanks to that garlic butter sauce. trust me, it’s heavenly! you could also toss in some veggies for an even healthier take, or try adding some spicy seasoning to switch things up.

Oh, and here’s the kicker: when you’re steaming instead of frying or grilling, you preserve all that juicy goodness. the softness just can't be beaten! plus, it’s pretty foolproof—you’re way less likely to mess it up compared to other shrimp cooking methods.

Seriously, what’s not to love about a simple shrimp dinner like this?

So, are you ready to dive in? let’s gather the ingredients so we can start steaming some seafood magic! you’ll need fresh shrimp, garlic, butter, and just a bit of seasoning.

Trust me, the best seasoning for shrimp is one that lets the natural flavors shine. get ready to treat your taste buds to a flavor explosion!

Perfectly Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce ingredients

Essential Ingredients Guide for Perfectly Steamed Shrimp

Ah, shrimp! is there anything better than diving into a plate of perfectly steamed shrimp? honestly, i could eat shrimp every day of the week, and it’s super easy to whip up a dish that’ll impress anyone.

Let’s break down what you need in your kitchen to create amazing shrimp dishes, like how to make steamed shrimp or my personal favorite, garlic butter shrimp .

Premium Core Components

First things first: the ingredients. When it comes to steaming shrimp, quality matters.

Shrimp selection: always go for fresh or properly thawed shrimp . look for that sweet, oceanic scent—if it smells off, skip it.

For every pound (about 450 g ), you’ll need about 1 cup (240 ml) of water with a splash of lemon juice to enhance those flavors.

You know, it’s like a party for your taste buds!
Storage guidelines: fresh shrimp can hang out in the fridge for a day or two, while frozen shrimp are good for a few months.

Just don’t let them sit in the freezer forever; they lose flavor!
Freshness Tips: When selecting shrimp, ensure they’re firm and have a slight sheen. No mushy shrimp allowed, folks!

Signature Seasoning Blend

Now, what’s better than just steamed shrimp? How about seasoning that kicks it up a notch?

Essential Spices: Salt and pepper are staples, but I love using Old Bay seasoning for that classic shrimp flavor. It’s like a warm hug from the ocean!
Herbs and Pairings: Fresh parsley really lifts the dish. You can also try dill or cilantro for a different vibe.
Flavor Enhancers: Garlic is a must. A simple garlic butter sauce? Absolute bliss! A squeeze of lemon at the end makes it all pop.

Smart Substitutions

Ever find yourself in a pinch? Don’t sweat it—there are always substitutes around!

Common Alternatives: If you can’t find Old Bay, mix paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt for a homemade version.
Dietary Modifications: You can swap butter with olive oil for a healthier twist. Don’t forget—shrimp is already a lean protein that’s friendly to many diets!
Emergency Replacements: Ran out of garlic? You can use garlic powder in a pinch. Just be mindful of the quantities since it’s more concentrated .

Kitchen Equipment Essentials

Let’s talk tools because what’s a good shrimp dish without the right gear?

Must-have tools: a large pot with a lid is crucial for steaming. if you don’t have a steamer basket, a colander will do the trick; just make sure it fits inside your pot without touching the water.

Easy peasy!
Alternative Equipment: You can even use a microwave steam pouch if you’re super short on time.
Preparation Tips: Keep everything ready to go before you start cooking. It makes for a smoother experience—trust me!
Storage Solutions: Store your spices and herbs in airtight containers for longer freshness. Nothing stings more than stale spices when you’re ready to whip up a dish.

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork, it’s time to jump into the fun part: the cooking! follow along as we dive into the step-by-step instructions for making that delightful steamed shrimp recipe paired perfectly with garlic butter sauce.

Whether you’re hosting a party or just making a simple shrimp dinner for yourself, you’ll be the star of the show in no time.

We all deserve a little seafood elegance, right?

So let's get cookin'!

Perfectly Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce steps

The Art of Cooking Shrimp: Essential Steps for Success

So, let’s talk about something that’s become a staple on dinner tables across america— steamed shrimp ! whether you’re whipping it up as an appetizer or a main dish, knowing how to make steamed shrimp sets you up for seafood success.

You may think it’s all about technique, but trust me, it starts way before you even turn on the stove.

Getting Ready: Essential Preparation Steps

First things first, let’s get our ducks—or shrimp, in this case—lined up! this part is called mise en place , and it basically means “everything in its place.

” before you even think about cooking, you want to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. for our shrimp, you’ll need one pound of fresh shrimp , 1 cup of water, and some lemon juice .

Just thinking about that flavor makes my mouth water!

Time management is key, too. don’t be that person who’s chopping garlic while the shrimp are boiling! take a moment to chop your garlic and even mix up your garlic butter sauce ahead of time.

Trust me, the last thing you want is rushing and ending up with rubbery shrimp.

Also, let’s not forget about safety considerations . I learned the hard way to never underestimate the sharpness of a knife, so be careful while chopping! And when cooking, check the shrimp for any signs of spoilage—nothing ruins a dinner faster than bad seafood!

Step-by-Step Process: Cooking Made Easy

Now, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty. Here’s how to get those shrimp from raw to absolutely divine !

Prepare the steamer: fill a large pot with 1 cup of water . add a splash of lemon juice . put in your steamer basket or colander on top.

The water shouldn’t touch the basket.
Season the shrimp: toss your 1 lb of shrimp with some old bay seasoning and a pinch of salt in a bowl.

This is where you can get creative with your spices too!
Steam the shrimp: arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the basket. cover the pot and let it steam for 5- 7 minutes , or until they’re pink and opaque.

Keep an eye on them; nobody wants overcooked shrimp!
Time for the garlic butter: while the shrimp are steaming, melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a frying pan over medium heat.

Toss in 3 cloves of minced garlic and stir it until fragrant—about 1 minute —but don’t let it brown. that’ll ruin the whole vibe!
Combine: Once the shrimp are done, pour them into a serving dish, drizzle on that delicious garlic butter, and don’t forget to serve with lemon wedges.

Expert Techniques for Perfect Shrimp

Here’s where it gets fun! one critical step is temperature control . make sure the water is at a simmer but not boiling.

Too much heat, and your shrimp are done before you know it.

Check for quality checkpoints —like that beautiful pink color and a firm yet tender texture. Trust your gut; if it looks good and smells amazing, you’re golden!

And if things go sideways, don’t panic. if your shrimp are rubbery, next time, cut back on the cooking time! that’s the beauty of practice; you'll be a shrimp-steaming pro before you know it.

Strategies for Success

Alright, let’s wrap it up with some success strategies so you can have the best shrimp dinner ever.

First, avoid common mistakes. Don’t overcrowd the steamer—that means no stacking those shrimp too high. You want them to cook evenly.

Second, keep it fresh! Choosing fresh shrimp over frozen will make a world of difference in taste and texture. Plus, seasoning them right can really enhance that shrimp flavor.

Finally, don’t be afraid to mix it up! try pairing your shrimp with a homemade garlic butter sauce recipe or serve them with a spicy dipping sauce.

The world of seafood recipes is wide open!

Moving on

Now that you’ve got the scoop on how to steam shrimp like a boss, you can dive into more delicious ideas.

Stay tuned for the next section where we explore even more fun ways to prepare shrimp—and trust me, you won't want to miss out! from easy shrimp appetizers to heartwarming family-friendly seafood meals, we’ve got it all.

Happy cooking!

Perfectly Steamed Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce presentation

Pro Tips & Secrets

Alright, let’s dive into some pro tips for making the best steamed shrimp ! first off, i can’t stress enough the importance of using fresh shrimp .

Trust me, the flavor is unmatched. when you choose fresh shrimp over frozen, you’re really getting that sweet, oceanic taste that makes seafood incredible.

You might even find a local fishmonger who has the freshest catch in town!

Now, on to time-saving techniques . get everything prepped before you steam. this means peeling, deveining, and seasoning your shrimp ahead of time.

Also, while your shrimp are steaming, spend that time whipping up your garlic butter sauce . it’s quick, and by the time your shrimp are done, so is your sauce—perfect timing every time!

For some flavor enhancement tips , consider tossing in a few lemon slices or herbs like parsley right into the steaming water.

The aroma that infuses the shrimp while they cook is heavenly. lastly, let’s talk presentation . serving your shrimp on a colorful platter really makes it pop.

Maybe add a sprinkle of fresh parsley over the top to give it some flair. you want those seafood appetizers to catch the eye and tantalize the taste buds!

Perfect Presentation

When it comes to plating techniques , simplicity is key. arrange the shrimp in a single layer on a large plate so they don’t crowd each other.

Nobody likes a squished shrimp! for a delightful garnish idea , lemon wedges are classic. they not only look great, but they also let diners squeeze a bit of that zesty goodness right onto their shrimp.

Talk about a win-win!

Now, let’s think about color combinations . pair your shrimp with a vibrant side—maybe a green salad or some roasted veggies.

It’s all about creating that visual appeal. make your food colorful and inviting. remember, we eat with our eyes first!

Storage & Make-Ahead

Next up, let’s chat about storage guidelines . if you’ve got leftovers, pop them in an airtight container and stick them in the fridge.

They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. want to make them ahead? you can absolutely prepare the garlic butter sauce in advance, storing it in the fridge.

Just quickly reheat it before serving!

As for reheating instructions , i recommend using the microwave or a skillet over low heat. gently warm them so they don’t become rubbery.

Your goal is to keep that tender texture intact. freshly cooked shrimp are great, but reheated can still be enjoyable if done right!

Creative Variations

The beauty of shrimp dishes is how versatile they are. feeling adventurous? try a citrus twist by swapping out the standard lemon juice for something like lime or orange.

You’ll be amazed at the fresh twist it provides! for dietary modifications, if you’re looking for a healthy shrimp dish , consider using olive oil instead of butter in your sauce.

Speaking of variations, don’t be afraid to play with spices. a little cajun seasoning in your steaming water can bring some serious heat.

And if you’re in a particular region, grab local spices to create a delightful twist on this classic recipe. maybe toss in some fresh local herbs that you’ve picked up from a farmer’s market!

Complete Nutrition Guide

So, just how healthy is our beloved shrimp? here’s the scoop: they’re low in calories but pack a punch in protein.

One serving has about 25 grams of protein while being nearly zero carbohydrates. talk about a win for anyone watching their intake!

It’s perfect for a simple shrimp dinner that your family will request time and again. plus, it’s quick and easy, giving you more time to hang out with loved ones.

Just think about those nutrition facts when preparing your shrimp with dipping sauce .

The Bottom Line

There you have it, friends! this is your go-to guide on how to make steamed shrimp like a pro. with these tips and tricks, you’ll be creating not just a million-dollar dish but also delightful moments around your dinner table.

Remember, cooking should be fun! don’t stress too much if things aren’t perfect. enjoy the process, and i assure you the results will be delicious.

Happy cooking!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when my steamed shrimp are done?

Steamed shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, which usually takes around 5-7 minutes. To ensure perfect doneness, avoid overcooking them, as that can lead to a rubbery texture. A safe bet is to check for a slight curl in the shrimp's body as a sign of perfect cooking.

What is the best way to season the shrimp before steaming?

One of the popular methods is tossing the shrimp with Old Bay seasoning and a pinch of salt, as mentioned in the recipe. You can also experiment with other seasonings or herbs to enhance the flavor, like lemon zest, garlic powder, or even a splash of hot sauce for a kick.

What can I serve with steamed shrimp?

Steamed shrimp pairs well with a variety of sides, including refreshing salads, garlic bread, or even pasta dishes. For a light meal, consider serving it alongside vegetables or a citrus-based salad. Don’t forget to drizzle some of that garlic butter sauce on your sides for extra flavor!

Can I make steamed shrimp ahead of time?

While steamed shrimp are best enjoyed fresh right after cooking, you can prep them in advance. Store cooked shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, gently reheat them in a pan or microwave, but be careful to avoid overcooking.

How to make steamed shrimp more flavorful?

To enhance the flavor of the steamed shrimp, try adding aromatics like garlic, onion, or herbs to the steaming water. You can also infuse the garlic butter sauce with additional ingredients like lemon zest, chili flakes, or even a splash of white wine to elevate the taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp for steaming, and do I need to thaw them first?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for steaming, but it’s best to thaw them beforehand to ensure even cooking. Place them in the refrigerator overnight, or if you're short on time, you can run them under cold water until thawed. Just remember to pat them dry before seasoning.