Keto Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is a quick, elegant, and deeply flavorful dish that perfectly fits into a ketogenic lifestyle. Shrimp is naturally low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for anyone following a low-carb or keto diet. When combined with rich butter, aromatic garlic, and bright fresh lemon juice, shrimp transforms into a restaurant-quality meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
This dish is ideal for busy weeknights, special dinners, or even meal prep. The sauce is rich and indulgent without being heavy, striking the perfect balance between citrusy freshness and buttery richness. Unlike many keto meals that can feel repetitive, this shrimp recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal ingredients and effort.
Keto Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp is also extremely versatile. It can be served over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete low-carb meal. Whether you’re new to keto cooking or a seasoned low-carb enthusiast, this recipe will become a go-to favorite thanks to its simplicity, speed, and irresistible taste.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Rinse shrimp under cold water, pat completely dry with paper towels, and season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add remaining butter, garlic, and red chili flakes. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in lemon juice and lemon zest. Simmer for 1–2 minutes.
- Return shrimp to skillet and toss gently to coat evenly.
- Remove from heat, sprinkle with parsley, and garnish with lemon slices.
Notes
Nutritional Facts and Total Calories
(Per serving, approximate)- Calories: 360
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Net Carbs: 2g
Keto Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp
Ingredient Notes
Shrimp
Large or jumbo shrimp work best for this recipe because they stay juicy and meaty when cooked. Always use raw shrimp rather than pre-cooked shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture. Fresh shrimp is ideal, but frozen shrimp works well when fully thawed and patted dry.
Butter
Unsalted butter is preferred so you can control the saltiness of the dish. Butter is essential for keto cooking because it provides healthy fats while creating a rich, luxurious sauce.
Olive Oil
Olive oil prevents the butter from burning during cooking and adds a subtle fruity flavor. Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.
Garlic
Fresh garlic is the heart of this dish. Minced garlic releases aromatic oils that infuse the butter and shrimp with bold flavor.
Red Chili Flakes
Optional but highly recommended for a subtle heat that balances the richness of the butter.
Lemon Juice
Freshly squeezed lemon juice adds acidity and brightness, preventing the dish from feeling too heavy.
Lemon Zest
Lemon zest intensifies citrus flavor without adding extra liquid or carbs.
Salt and Black Pepper
Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of shrimp.
Parsley
Fresh parsley adds color and a light herbal finish that brightens the dish.
Serving Instructions
Serve Keto Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp hot with zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, roasted asparagus, or a crisp green salad. Spoon extra sauce over shrimp for maximum flavor.
Tips
- Do not overcook shrimp; they cook quickly.
- Pat shrimp dry to ensure proper searing.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor.
- Add butter gradually for a silky sauce.
- Double the sauce if serving with noodles.
Storage Information
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Not recommended due to texture changes.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat to prevent rubbery shrimp.
FAQs
1. Is shrimp keto-friendly?
Yes, shrimp is naturally low in carbs and high in protein.
2. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw and dry thoroughly before cooking.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes, replace butter with ghee or olive oil.
4. What sides go best with this dish?
Zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or sautéed greens are ideal.
5. Can I add cream to the sauce?
Yes, heavy cream can be added for a creamy keto variation.
