Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe Delight

Name: Easy 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe Delight
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined) (Choose fresh or thawed for best results.); 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (Adds a rich, creamy base.); 3 garlic cloves (minced) (Key for flavor infusion.); 1 Tbsp lemon juice (Brightens the sauce.); to taste salt; to taste black pepper; 1 cup bell peppers (sliced) (Brings vibrant color.); 1 cup zucchini (sliced) (Adds a tender bite.); 1 cup snap peas (Adds a fresh snap.); 2 green onions (sliced) (For a touch of freshness.); to taste fresh parsley or cilantro (For an herby lift.); to taste red pepper flakes (For added heat.)

Katherine

Honoring generations of culinary artistry.

There’s something truly irresistible about the sizzle of garlic butter mingling with fresh shrimp and crisp veggies—it instantly transforms a simple stir-fry into a weeknight masterpiece. When I first tried this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry recipe, I couldn’t believe how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for those moments when you crave homemade goodness but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, this dish balances savory richness with vibrant freshness. Whether you’re a busy home cook, a chef looking for a speedy dinner option, or just tired of the same old fast food, this recipe is a game-changer. Get ready to dive into a colorful, satisfying meal that’s as easy to make as it is delicious.

Why choose this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe?

Speedy preparation: Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for busy evenings. Flavor-packed: Garlic butter infuses every bite with rich, savory goodness. Vibrant and fresh: Crisp veggies add a delightful crunch and color. Versatile: Customize with your favorite seasonal veggies or protein tweaks. Homemade satisfaction: Say goodbye to fast food boredom with a wholesome, easy meal everyone will love!

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Sauce

Shrimp (peeled and deveined) – Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe.
Unsalted butter – Adds the rich, creamy base that makes the garlic shine beautifully.
Garlic cloves (minced) – Key to infusing the entire dish with that irresistible aroma and taste.
Lemon juice – A splash brightens the buttery sauce and balances the richness.
Salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings to enhance and round out the flavors perfectly.

For the Veggie Medley

Bell peppers (sliced) – Bring vibrant color and a sweet crunch.
Zucchini (sliced) – Adds a tender, mild bite that soaks up the garlic butter sauce.
Snap peas – Deliver a fresh snap that complements the shrimp’s meaty texture.
Green onions (sliced) – For a touch of mild oniony freshness to finish the dish.

Optional Garnishes

Fresh parsley or cilantro – Sprinkle for an herby lift and extra visual appeal.
Red pepper flakes – Add a little heat if you love a spicy kick.

How to Make 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry

Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat for about 1 minute until the surface is hot, oil-shimmering and ready for ingredients.
Melt 2 tablespoons unsalted butter until foamy, then stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, cooking about 30 seconds until fragrant without browning.
Cook shrimp in the garlic butter, arranging them in a single layer and searing 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque with golden edges.

For the Veggie Medley:

Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas to the skillet alongside shrimp, tossing gently to coat with buttery garlic juices.
Stir-fry the veggies for 3–4 minutes over medium-high heat until crisp-tender and lightly charred, their colors bright and textures popping.
Combine shrimp and vegetables, drizzle with lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, tossing continually so every piece glistens with sauce.
Garnish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley, then transfer immediately to plates, serving hot for peak flavor and vibrant presentation.

Optional: sprinkle red pepper flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry

Room Temperature: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if leftovers are needed, let it cool down before serving at room temperature for no more than 2 hours.
Fridge: Store any leftover shrimp and veggies in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to keep the flavors vibrant.
Freezer: While it’s possible to freeze, note that the texture may change. Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months, and reheat gently after thawing.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of lemon juice or fresh butter to freshen it up.

What to Serve with 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry?

When you’re ready to elevate your dinner experience, let these delightful pairings bring out the best in your dish.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the savory garlic butter sauce, creating a comforting base for the shrimp and veggies.
Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, it’s perfect for mopping up all those luscious garlic butter juices left on your plate.
Crispy Asian Slaw: A refreshing and crunchy contrast, this slaw adds brightness and wakes up the palate with each bite.
Sautéed Asparagus: With its tender yet crisp texture, asparagus complements the dish beautifully, adding an elegant touch.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc enhances the seafood’s natural sweetness and refreshes the palate with its acidity.
Lemon Sorbet: Light and refreshing, this dessert is the perfect way to cleanse your palate after a rich, buttery meal.
Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a light vinaigrette, this provides a cool and vibrant contrast to the warm, savory stir-fry.
Sesame Noodles: Their nutty flavor and chewy texture add another layer of deliciousness, making your mealtime unforgettable.
Mango Salsa: Sweet and spicy, it creates an exciting flavor combination that pairs flawlessly with the richness of the shrimp.

Each pairing offers a unique experience, enhancing your garlic butter shrimp adventure while ensuring your meal is both satisfying and memorable!

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Variations

Feel free to add your personal spin on this dish—discover tempting twists that will excite your taste buds!

Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sriracha while cooking for a fiery burst of flavor. This addition elevates each bite with warmth that dances on your palate.
Coconut Cream: Substitute butter with coconut cream for a tropical coconut flavor that enhances the richness of the shrimp beautifully.
Veggie Swap: Use asparagus or broccoli instead of snap peas for a different texture and added nutritional benefits. Both provide a satisfying crunch with every mouthful.
Quinoa Base: Serve the stir-fry over quinoa instead of rice for a protein-packed, nutritious alternative that adds a delightful nuttiness.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil or dill to give your dish an aromatic lift that complements the shrimp and veggies perfectly. A sprinkling just before serving brightens every bite.
Zesty Citrus: Try using lime juice instead of lemon for a zesty twist that brings out a different side of the garlic butter sauce.
Noodle Addition: Toss in cooked rice noodles or chow mein for a heartier version that transforms your stir-fry into a comforting noodle dish.
Protein Boost: Incorporate thinly sliced chicken or tofu for additional protein and heartiness, especially if you’re looking to switch up protein sources. Each option will still soak up all that wonderful garlic butter goodness!

Let your creativity shine in the kitchen and enjoy the wonderful process of crafting a dish that’s uniquely yours!

Make Ahead Options

These 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the veggies (bell peppers, zucchini, and snap peas) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their crispness. Additionally, you can marinate the shrimp in garlic butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper for up to 24 hours for even deeper flavor. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the skillet, toss in the shrimp, and add your prepped veggies. This way, you’ll have a delicious, vibrant meal on the table with minimal effort, making busy weeknights a breeze!

Expert Tips for 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp Stir-Fry

Prep ingredients first: Chop all veggies and mince garlic before heating the pan to keep the stir-fry quick and effortless.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed to ensure even searing and retain that perfect golden crust.
Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or properly thawed shrimp deliver the best texture and flavor for this 15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe.
Watch garlic closely: Garlic can burn quickly; cook it just until fragrant to avoid bitterness in the buttery sauce.
Maintain high heat: Stir-frying over medium-high heat keeps vegetables crisp-tender and shrimp juicy without stewing them.
Customize boldly: Feel free to swap veggies based on season or preference to keep this dish exciting night after night.

15-Minute Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my shrimp is fresh enough for this recipe?
Look for shrimp that is firm to the touch, with a mild ocean scent and translucent flesh. Avoid shrimp with dark spots all over or a strong fishy odor, as these are signs of age or spoilage.

What’s the best way to store leftover shrimp and veggies from this stir-fry?
Absolutely store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Before storing, let the dish cool to room temperature but don’t leave it out more than 2 hours to stay safe and tasty.

Can I freeze the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Veggie Stir-Fry?
You can! Freeze the cooled stir-fry in a freezer-safe, airtight container or heavy-duty zip bag. For best taste and texture, consume within 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of lemon juice or a bit of butter to revive the flavors.

What should I do if my garlic starts to burn during cooking?
Garlic cooks fast and burns quickly, turning bitter. If you notice browning, immediately lower the heat or remove the pan from heat briefly to prevent further cooking. I recommend stirring garlic for just 30 seconds until fragrant before adding shrimp to avoid bitterness.

Is this recipe safe for people with shellfish allergies or pets?
Since shrimp is a shellfish, anyone with allergies should avoid this dish or substitute shrimp with a safe protein like chicken or tofu. Also, keep pets away from this recipe as garlic and butter can be harmful to dogs and cats. Always prioritize safety when cooking for others!