Print

Quick One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe

one-pan garlic butter shrimp and asparagus - featured image

A fast, flavorful one-pan meal featuring garlicky butter shrimp and crisp asparagus, perfect for busy weeknights and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 bunch asparagus (about 1 pound), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse and pat dry the shrimp thoroughly to avoid steaming. Trim the woody ends off the asparagus and cut into 2-inch pieces. Mince the garlic finely.
  2. Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Let it warm until shimmering but not smoking.
  3. Add the shrimp in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2 minutes on one side until pink edges start to form, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until opaque and slightly firm. Remove shrimp from pan and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, add the butter and minced garlic. Stir quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  5. Toss in the asparagus pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until bright green and crisp-tender.
  6. Return the shrimp to the pan, squeeze fresh lemon juice over everything, and sprinkle a pinch of red pepper flakes if using. Toss gently to coat the shrimp and asparagus in the garlic butter sauce. Cook together for another minute.
  7. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley over the top, and serve immediately.

Notes

Dry shrimp well before cooking to ensure proper searing. Avoid overcrowding the pan to get a nice caramelization on the shrimp. Stir garlic constantly once added to prevent burning. If asparagus stalks are thick, slice lengthwise for even cooking. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheat gently to avoid rubbery shrimp.

Nutrition

Keywords: shrimp, garlic butter, asparagus, one-pan meal, quick dinner, easy recipe, seafood, low-carb, keto, gluten-free