Here’s a deep dive into the recipe, preparation techniques, and tips for making One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus—a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick to make, requires minimal clean-up, and packs a punch with its bold flavors. This recipe is fantastic for weeknight dinners or even entertaining guests, as it looks and tastes impressive without much effort.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This shrimp and asparagus dish is beloved for many reasons:
Easy Clean-Up: Cooking everything on one pan means fewer dishes.
Quick Cooking Time: From start to finish, you’re looking at about 20 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
Nutrient-Rich: Shrimp is packed with protein and omega-3 fatty acids, and asparagus is loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Versatile: This recipe can be customized with other vegetables, herbs, and seasonings to suit your taste.
Ingredients Needed
Here’s what you’ll need for a serving size of about 4 people:
1 pound of shrimp (fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined)
1 bunch of asparagus (trimmed and cut into thirds)
3-4 cloves of garlic, minced (adjust based on how garlicky you like it)
4 tablespoons of unsalted butter (substitute with olive oil for a healthier option)
1-2 tablespoons of olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon (around 2 tablespoons for that citrusy flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Preheat Your Oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures the food cooks evenly.
Prepare the Ingredients: While the oven is preheating, start preparing your shrimp and asparagus.
If you’re using fresh shrimp, remove the shells and veins. You can leave the tails on for presentation.
Wash and trim the asparagus, then cut it into thirds. This helps it cook evenly with the shrimp.
Assemble the Pan: Take a large baking sheet and arrange the asparagus on one side, leaving room for the shrimp. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the asparagus, and season with salt and pepper.
Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small bowl, melt the butter and stir in the minced garlic. Add a pinch of salt and the juice of half a lemon (reserve the rest for after baking). Mix well.
Season and Arrange the Shrimp: Place the shrimp next to the asparagus on the baking sheet. Drizzle the garlic butter over the shrimp, ensuring each one is coated.
Bake: Put the baking sheet in the oven and let it bake for 8-10 minutes or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque and the asparagus is tender.
Add Final Touches: Remove the pan from the oven, squeeze the remaining lemon juice over the shrimp and asparagus, and sprinkle fresh parsley and red pepper flakes (if using) for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy the shrimp and asparagus hot, directly from the pan or over rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Perfect One-Pan Shrimp and Asparagus
Shrimp Size: Medium or large shrimp are best for this dish, as they cook quickly without drying out. Smaller shrimp cook faster, so watch them to avoid overcooking.
Asparagus Thickness: Thicker asparagus stalks are ideal, as they hold up better in the oven. If you only have thin stalks, reduce the cooking time slightly.
Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work as a substitute. Just be careful not to overdo it since garlic powder is more concentrated.
Don’t Skip the Lemon: The acidity of the lemon juice brightens the dish and balances the richness of the garlic butter, giving the shrimp and asparagus a refreshing zing.
Adjusting for Spice: Red pepper flakes add a subtle heat that complements the garlic butter. Adjust the amount based on your preference, or omit them for a milder dish.
Variations
Add Other Vegetables: Mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or zucchini can be added to the pan for more variety and color.
Switch the Seasoning: Try adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Make It a Meal: Serve over quinoa, rice, or pasta, or with a slice of crusty bread for a more filling option.
Herbs and Garnishes: Fresh basil, chives, or even dill can be sprinkled on top for a new twist.
Nutritional Benefits of Shrimp and Asparagus
Shrimp: Low in calories and high in protein, shrimp is a great lean protein source. It’s also rich in antioxidants like astaxanthin and minerals such as selenium, which supports heart health and reduces inflammation.
Asparagus: Known for its high fiber content, asparagus is great for digestion. It’s also packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate. Plus, asparagus has antioxidants that promote healthy skin and support the immune system.
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb. shrimp peeled and deveined *see notes
- 1 lb. asparagus fresh - ends trimmed.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon garlic 3-4 cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the asparagus to the pan, season with salt and pepper, and saute the asparagus until tender-crisp, about 4-6 minutes.
- Remove the sauteed asparagus from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, melt the butter.
- Add the shrimp to the pan and sprinkle with Italian seasoning.
- Saute the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side, then add the minced garlic to the pan and flip the shrimp to cook the other side for 2-3 minutes or until they are opaque and have turned pink.
- Add the asparagus back to the pan and toss to coat them in the garlic butter for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove the cooked shrimp and asparagus from the pan and garnish with parsley, lemon wedges, and freshly grated parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, frozen shrimp works just as well, but be sure to thaw and pat them dry before using them. This prevents excess moisture from watering down the garlic butter sauce.
2. Can I prepare this dish on the stovetop? Absolutely. You can s
auté the shrimp and asparagus in a skillet with the garlic butter until cooked through. This can give a bit more control over the cooking.
3. What if I don’t have fresh garlic? While fresh garlic is recommended, garlic powder or even garlic-infused olive oil can work in a pinch.
Making Ahead and Storing Leftovers
Make Ahead: You can prepare the garlic butter mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. This is great for busy days when you need to get dinner on the table quickly.
Storing Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in a skillet to keep the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
Freezing: This dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the texture of the shrimp can change when frozen and reheated.
Serving Suggestions
One-pan garlic butter shrimp and asparagus can be enjoyed on its own or paired with:
Rice or Quinoa: The fluffy grains soak up the garlic butter sauce wonderfully.
Pasta: Toss the shrimp and asparagus with cooked pasta for a heartier meal.
Salad: A side of leafy greens balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
Bread: Crusty bread or garlic bread is perfect for dipping in the buttery sauce.
Conclusion
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Asparagus is a recipe that deserves a spot in every busy cook’s rotation. With its simple preparation, quick cooking time, and delightful flavors, it’s perfect for both beginner and seasoned cooks alike. This dish showcases the flavors of fresh ingredients without needing a lot of complex steps or exotic spices, making it versatile and accessible. Give this recipe a try, and let it bring a touch of elegance and ease to your weeknight dinners!