Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a delicious and simple dish that brings together juicy shrimp with lots of garlic, a splash of butter, and a hint of lemon. It’s got that perfect mix of garlicky, buttery goodness with a little touch of the islands that makes it feel fresh and special. You can almost imagine sitting by the beach, enjoying a warm, flavorful bite every time you take a forkful.
I love making this dish because it comes together so quickly, but tastes like you spent hours cooking it. The garlic really shines, and I always make sure to toast it just right so it’s not too sharp but still full of flavor. Plus, the shrimp cooks fast, so dinner is on the table in no time. My trick is to use fresh lemon juice at the end—it brightens things up and balances the rich butter so well.
One of my favorite ways to serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is over a bed of rice or alongside some steamed veggies. It’s a great meal for family nights or when friends come over because everyone loves the garlicky shrimp, and it feels like a mini tropical getaway without leaving home. It’s always a big hit, and I find myself reaching for this recipe whenever I want something tasty but easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp with tails on give great flavor and texture. If unavailable, medium shrimp work fine. For a twist, try peeled shrimp if you prefer easier eating.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and helps cook the garlic gently. You can use olive oil for a lighter, dairy-free option, though butter gives a creamier result.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic is key for that strong, aromatic flavor. Avoid garlic powder—it won’t give the same punch. For less intensity, use less garlic or cook it a little longer to mellow it out.
Smoked Paprika: This adds a smoky warmth. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or mild chili powder work as alternatives.
Soy Sauce & Lemon Juice: Soy sauce gives saltiness and depth, while lemon juice brightens the dish at the end. Fresh lemon juice is best for a fresh pop of flavor, but bottled lemon juice can be used in a pinch.
How Do I Cook Shrimp So It’s Tender and Not Rubber?
Shrimp cooks fast—overcooking makes it tough and rubbery. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Pat shrimp dry before cooking; moisture can cause steaming instead of searing.
- Use medium-high heat to get a quick sear and lock in juices.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and curl into a loose “C” shape.
- Remove from heat promptly once cooked. Shrimp continue to cook slightly with residual heat, so catching them just done is key.
- Add seasoning and sauce after flipping so flavors soak in without overcooking.
Following these tips will help you enjoy tender, perfectly cooked shrimp every time!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I prefer a big skillet to cook all the shrimp evenly and get a nice sear.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for easy accuracy with your ingredients like garlic, soy sauce, and lemon juice.
- Cutting board and knife – to mince the garlic and chop parsley quickly and safely.
- Spatula or tongs – allows you to turn the shrimp gently without breaking them apart.
- Serving spoon – for spooning extra sauce over the cooked shrimp and rice.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swirl in a splash of coconut milk or pineapple juice with the soy sauce for a more tropical, sweet flavor.
- Mix in diced bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce if you like some extra spice in your dish.
- Swap parsley for cilantro for a fresh, citrusy note that complements the garlic and seafood.
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 8-10 minutes to cook. You’ll have a delicious, garlicky shrimp meal ready in under 20 minutes—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes until everything is evenly coated.
2. Cook the Garlic:
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the butter. Once it’s melted and bubbling, add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until you can smell the lovely garlic aroma but be careful not to brown it.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until they start turning pink and get a nice light sear. Flip them over to cook the other side.
4. Add Sauce and Finish Cooking:
Pour the soy sauce and freshly squeezed lemon juice into the skillet with the shrimp. Stir everything together so the shrimp are evenly coated. Cook for another 2 minutes until the shrimp turn opaque and are cooked through.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Turn off the heat and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the shrimp. Serve the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp hot over a bed of cooked white rice. Don’t forget to spoon the tasty garlic butter sauce from the pan over the rice and shrimp for extra flavor.
Enjoy your quick, tasty Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp and imagine the beautiful island breeze with every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly submerge in cold water while sealed in a bag. Pat them dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
Can I Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Cook the shrimp and sauce, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the shrimp tender and flavorful.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to warm evenly. Adding a splash of water or lemon juice while reheating can freshen the flavors.
What Can I Serve With Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
This shrimp goes wonderfully over steamed white rice to soak up the buttery garlic sauce. For a lighter option, serve with cauliflower rice, or alongside fresh veggies like sautéed greens or a crisp salad.
