Get ready to elevate your dinner game with Instant Pot Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp! This quick and easy dish bursts with flavor and takes just minutes to make. You’ll learn how to prepare a creamy garlic butter sauce that brings the shrimp to life. Whether you’re a busy parent or just looking to impress friends, this recipe is perfect for you. Let’s dive into the mouthwatering details!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Zest and juice of 1 large lemon
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
– 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Measurement Details
When cooking, it helps to be precise. Use a kitchen scale for the shrimp. This ensures you have the right amount. For the butter, use a tablespoon measure. Each tablespoon weighs around 14 grams. Minced garlic should be fresh for the best flavor. The zest of the lemon adds a bright touch, so be sure to use a zester or fine grater. When measuring spices, a teaspoon means a level scoop, not heaped.
Optional Ingredient Modifications
You can adjust the heat by adding more or less red pepper flakes. If you like it spicy, go for it! Instead of chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. You can also swap fresh parsley for cilantro if you prefer a different herb. For a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream just before serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Garlic Butter
To start, set your Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode. Add 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt completely. Once melted, add 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute. Stir it often. The garlic should smell great but not turn brown. Burnt garlic tastes bitter.
Seasoning the Shrimp
In a mixing bowl, take 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. If you want some heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Gently toss the shrimp until they are well coated with the spices. This step lets the shrimp soak up all the flavors.
Pressure Cooking the Shrimp
After seasoning, cancel the ‘Sauté’ mode. Add the shrimp to the Instant Pot. Squeeze the juice of 1 large lemon over the shrimp. Add the lemon zest as well. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken or vegetable broth. Use a spatula to mix everything well. Make sure the shrimp are spread out.
Now, close the lid of the Instant Pot tightly. Change the valve to ‘Sealing’. Select ‘Pressure Cook’ or ‘Manual’ mode. Set the timer for 2 minutes. After cooking, do a quick release. Switch the valve to ‘Venting’. Be careful of the steam! Once it’s safe, open the lid and stir the shrimp gently. Taste it and add more salt or lemon juice if needed. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Flavor
To boost the flavor of your shrimp, use fresh ingredients. Fresh garlic and lemon make a big difference. Try adding a splash of white wine for depth. It complements the lemon and butter well. A pinch of fresh herbs, like thyme or dill, can also enhance the taste. Always taste the sauce before serving. Adjust salt and lemon juice to your liking.
Avoiding Overcooked Shrimp
Shrimp cook fast. In the Instant Pot, just two minutes is enough. If you overcook them, they turn rubbery. Always perform a quick release after cooking. This stops the cooking process right away. If you’re unsure, check the shrimp at one minute. They should be pink and opaque when done.
Presentation Suggestions
Presentation matters! Serve the shrimp over fluffy rice or with crusty bread. This lets guests soak up the tasty sauce. Add a lemon wedge and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. It brightens the dish and adds color. Use a shallow bowl for a nice look. Arrange the shrimp neatly and drizzle with sauce for effect.
Variations
Spicy Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
You can easily kick up the heat in this dish. Just add more red pepper flakes. Start with 1 teaspoon instead of 1/4 teaspoon. If you love spice, consider adding sliced jalapeños, too. They add a nice bite. You can also serve this with spicy dipping sauce to enhance the flavor. A spicy twist makes it perfect for those who crave heat.
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp with Vegetables
Want to add some crunch? Toss in your favorite veggies. Bell peppers and snap peas work well. You can add them right after sautéing the garlic. Just sauté them for a minute before adding the shrimp. This method keeps the veggies bright and fresh. They add color and nutrition to your meal. Plus, it creates a one-pot dish that’s easy to serve.
Alternative Cooking Methods
If you don’t have an Instant Pot, don’t worry. You can make this on the stove too. Start by melting the butter in a large pan. Sauté the garlic until fragrant. Then, add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. This method gives you a lovely sear. You can also grill the shrimp for a smoky flavor. Just skewer them and grill for about 2-3 minutes per side. Each method gives you a tasty dish with a unique twist!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover shrimp in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container. It stays fresh for up to two days. Make sure it cools down before sealing it. This helps keep the shrimp moist and tasty.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze the shrimp, first let it cool. Place it in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Techniques
Reheat shrimp gently to avoid overcooking. You can use the microwave on low power. Heat it in short bursts, checking often. Alternatively, warm it in a pan on low heat. Add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Enjoy your flavorful shrimp again!
FAQs
How long to cook shrimp in the Instant Pot?
You only need to cook shrimp for 2 minutes in the Instant Pot. The shrimp cooks quickly. If you cook it longer, it can become tough. Always remember to do a quick release after cooking. This helps keep the shrimp tender.
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp! Just add a couple more minutes to the cooking time. Make sure you do not thaw the shrimp before cooking. It saves time and still gives great results. Also, the shrimp will release extra liquid, so you may want to adjust the broth a bit.
What other dishes pair well with Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp?
This dish goes well with many sides. Here are some tasty options:
– Steamed rice
– Crusty bread
– Fresh salad
– Garlic noodles
– Roasted vegetables
These pairings enhance the meal and soak up the delicious sauce. Enjoy experimenting!
This guide covered all you need to make tasty Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp. We looked at ingredients, cooking steps, and handy tips. You learned how to avoid overcooking shrimp and make great variations. Storing leftovers was also discussed, helping you enjoy this dish later. Remember, you can mix flavors and adjust ingredients to fit your taste. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, so keep experimenting until you find your perfect dish. Enjoy each bite!
