Ingredients & Substitutions
Here I explain the best ingredients for sauteed shrimp, what each one does in the recipe, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.
Shrimp – I used 31-40 sized large shrimp, but smaller or jumbo shrimp also works. Adjust cooking time if using different sizes. Peel, devein, and keep tails for flavor. I don’t recommend cooking frozen shrimp because they will release more water into the pan, which can dilute the flavors, so thaw them first if they are frozen. Olive Oil – You could also use avocado oil, or any neutral cooking oil you prefer. Garlic – For the best flavor, use fresh garlic. If you don’t have any, 1 teaspoon of jarred minced garlic or 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder will work fine. Spices – Paprika and crushed red pepper flakes add warm flavor and a kick of spice to the sauteed shrimp. A sprinkle of cumin also works nicely here if you want to add it. Lemon Wedges – Serving with lemon wedges is optional, but a squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the dish nicely.
How To Saute Shrimp
This section shows how to make sauteed shrimp, with step-by-step photos and details about the technique, to help you visualize it. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.
How Long To Saute Shrimp?
Saute shrimp for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side, until the shrimp is pink and opaque.
Storage Instructions
Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 2-3 days. You can also repurpose them to make a creamy shrimp salad or shrimp avocado salad. Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, or it will turn rubbery. Freeze: Let the sauteed shrimp cool completely, then place in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, and transfer to airtight containers or zip lock bags for long-term freezer storage for up to 3 months.
What To Serve With Sauteed Shrimp Recipes
Now that you’ve made your shrimp, what are you going to serve with it? Here are some of my favorite ideas:
Rice – Complete your dish with garlic butter rice or for a lighter twist, try cilantro lime cauliflower rice. Salad – A fresh mango salad or orange mandarin salad would pair well with this dish, or replace chicken with shrimp in a chicken Caesar salad for a complete lunch. Noodles – Serve sauteed shrimp atop your favorite pasta, baked spaghetti squash, or make quick zucchini noodles in the same pan right after. Veggies – Pair with air fryer green beans or roasted asparagus with lemon zest.
Sauces – A tangy garlic butter sauce or a zesty lemon butter sauce makes the perfect dip for juicy shrimp.
More Juicy Shrimp Recipes
There are so many ways to cook shrimp! Here are a few other ways to try this seafood: Please enter your first name for your account. Your saved recipe will also be sent to your email.
