If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed seafood dinner that delivers crave-worthy results in minutes, Pan Seared Shrimp is just the dish you need. Each shrimp turns perfectly golden on the outside, tender within, and gets a boost from a garlicky lemon sauce and a dusting of fresh herbs. Whether you’re a weeknight dinner hero or planning an impromptu get-together, this Pan Seared Shrimp recipe is the kind of effortless showstopper you’ll find yourself craving again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients are the real secret to outstanding shrimp—the kind of staples you probably have on hand, yet each one brings its own pop of flavor, color, or texture to the final dish. Let’s break down the essentials for Pan Seared Shrimp:

Large Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Go for big, plump shrimp for that perfect juicy bite; tails on or off, your choice!
Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle richness and helps with that irresistible golden sear.
Butter (1 tablespoon): Melted in with the oil, it creates a luscious base and unbeatable flavor.
Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Nothing infuses shrimp like fresh, aromatic garlic—quickly sautéed for maximum flavor.
Paprika (½ teaspoon): Brings a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color to each piece.
Red Pepper Flakes (¼ teaspoon, optional): For anyone who likes a little kick, this brings just the right heat without overpowering the other flavors.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for drawing out the delicate flavors of the shrimp.
Lemon Juice (from ½ a lemon): A bright, zesty finish that cuts through the richness and makes everything pop.
Chopped Fresh Parsley: Gives a fresh, herbal flourish and makes the whole dish look gorgeous.

How to Make Pan Seared Shrimp

Step 1: Prep and Season the Shrimp

Start by patting your shrimp thoroughly dry with paper towels—this step helps achieve those irresistible crispy edges once they hit the skillet. Toss the shrimp with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. This quick seasoning not only preps the shrimp to soak up flavor but ensures each bite is well seasoned.

Step 2: Heat Up the Pan

Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and pour in the olive oil and butter. As the butter melts and combines with the oil, you’ll notice a gentle sizzle—this means your pan is ready to create that golden sear on the shrimp.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

Add the shrimp in a single layer—you might need to work in batches if your pan isn’t big enough. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes on one side. You’ll see them turning pink and slightly opaque along the edges, which is your sign they’re ready to flip. Sear the other side for another 2 to 3 minutes until just cooked through.

Step 4: Add Garlic

During the last minute of cooking, sprinkle the minced garlic into the pan. Give everything a gentle stir so the garlic infuses both the shrimp and the sizzling butter-oil blend, becoming aromatic but not browned.

Step 5: Lemon Finish and Garnish

Right before removing the shrimp from the heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over them and toss gently to coat. This final flourish adds a burst of zesty brightness. Transfer the shrimp to a serving dish and scatter with plenty of chopped fresh parsley for color and a pop of herby flavor.

How to Serve Pan Seared Shrimp

Garnishes

The simplest way to take your Pan Seared Shrimp to the next level is with a shower of vibrant chopped parsley and extra lemon wedges on the side. A finishing sprinkle of flaky sea salt or a hint of grated lemon zest can also make the flavors sing and add a pretty, professional touch.

Side Dishes

Pan Seared Shrimp pairs beautifully with almost anything—think buttery pasta, fluffy rice, or a crisp green salad for lighter fare. For a heartier plate, try spooning the shrimp over creamy polenta or alongside roasted vegetables.

Creative Ways to Present

Get playful with presentation by piling juicy shrimp onto toasted baguette slices for shrimp bruschetta, tossing with cooked noodles for a lightning-fast shrimp scampi, or even folding them into soft tortillas for flavor-packed shrimp tacos. The possibilities are as fun as they are delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Pan Seared Shrimp will keep well when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Be sure to let the shrimp cool before storing to preserve their supple texture and avoid condensation inside the container.

Freezing

While freshly cooked shrimp deliver the best flavor and texture, you can freeze your leftovers if needed. Arrange cooled shrimp in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. Stored this way, Pan Seared Shrimp keeps in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To gently reheat Pan Seared Shrimp without drying them out, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat just until warmed through, or zap briefly in the microwave. Take care not to overcook—they just need to be heated, not seared again!

FAQs

How do I know when shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque and curl into a loose C-shape. If they start shrinking tightly into an O-shape, they may be overcooked, so keep a close eye for that color and shape change.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Pan Seared Shrimp?

Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw frozen shrimp in the refrigerator or under cold running water, and dry them thoroughly before seasoning and cooking to get the best sear.

What’s the best skillet to use for pan searing shrimp?

A heavy-bottomed skillet, like cast iron or stainless steel, works wonders for achieving that signature golden sear on your shrimp, since it holds heat evenly and responds quickly to temperature changes.

Is marinating the shrimp necessary?

It’s optional, but a quick 15-minute soak in olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic before searing can dial up the flavor and tenderness, especially if you have a little extra time on your hands.

Can I double the Pan Seared Shrimp recipe?

Definitely! Just work in batches so you don’t overcrowd the skillet—each shrimp needs enough contact with the hot surface to cook evenly and get that lovely sear.

Final Thoughts

Easy, fast, and bursting with fresh flavor, Pan Seared Shrimp is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation and break out for your next dinner party too. Give this simple technique a try and discover just how simple—and irresistible—perfectly seared shrimp can be!

Pan Seared Shrimp Recipe

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4.6 from 24 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 16 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Learn how to make delicious Pan Seared Shrimp with this easy and flavorful recipe. Perfectly cooked shrimp with garlic, lemon, and herbs, ready in minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
½ teaspoon paprika
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of ½ lemon
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Prepare the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry and season with salt, pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes.
Cook the Shrimp: Heat oil and butter, cook shrimp in batches until pink and opaque. Add garlic, lemon juice, and parsley.
Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve hot over pasta, rice, or salad.