Name: Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lime and Creamy Mustard Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 4 garlic cloves, minced; ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat); ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (about ½ a lime); ⅓ cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1 teaspoon whole grain mustard; Zest of 1 lime; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; Lime wedges, for serving

Hey y'all! If you're looking for a shrimp dish that's bursting with flavor and comes together in no time, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lime and Creamy Mustard Sauce is your new go-to. Imagine juicy shrimp, sizzling in rich garlic butter, all topped off with a tangy lime twist and a dreamy, velvety mustard sauce. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to something extra special without much fuss. Let's get cooking!

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Why You'll Love This

Quick and easy: Ready in just 25 minutes from start to finish.
Bursting with flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, lime, and mustard creates a harmonious symphony for your taste buds.
Perfect for any occasion: Elegant enough for guests, simple enough for a weeknight meal.
Delightfully creamy sauce: The mustard cream sauce coats every shrimp for a luxurious finish.
Versatile: Works great over pasta, rice, or served on its own!

Ingredients

1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 garlic cloves, minced
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
½ teaspoon kosher salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (about ½ a lime)
⅓ cup heavy cream
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon whole grain mustard
Zest of 1 lime
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Lime wedges, for serving

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Shrimp

Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp

Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Butter Base

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter, minced garlic, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the same skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Step 4: Add Lime and Mustard Cream

Pour in the lime juice, stirring up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Lower the heat, then add the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, and whole grain mustard. Whisk to combine and simmer the sauce for 2-3 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce and let them heat through for 1 minute. Sprinkle with lime zest and chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra lime wedges on the side.

Notes

Use fresh shrimp when possible for the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the shrimp; they only need a couple of minutes per side.
If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of cream or water to loosen it up.

Variations

Spicy Cajun: Add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning with the garlic for a bold kick.
Lemon Twist: Swap lime for lemon juice and zest for a different citrus note.
Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and coconut cream in place of heavy cream.

Required Equipment

Large skillet
Knife and cutting board
Zester or microplane
Measuring spoons and cups
Wooden spoon or spatula
Paper towels

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp with Lime and Creamy Mustard Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a tablespoon of cream if needed to restore the sauce's consistency.
Not recommended for freezing, as the sauce can separate upon thawing.

Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations

Serve over fluffy rice, angel hair pasta, or with crusty bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Pair with a light salad of mixed greens and a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.
Add steamed asparagus or sautéed spinach for a pop of color and veg.

Pro Tips

Always pat shrimp dry—this helps them sear instead of steam.
Add cream gradually for a silkier sauce and to prevent curdling.
Finish with freshly zested lime for the brightest, freshest flavor punch.

FAQ

Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking.
What if I don't have Dijon mustard?
You can substitute with spicy brown mustard or a good quality yellow mustard in a pinch.
How spicy is this dish?
It's only mildly spiced, and the red pepper flakes are optional. Adjust to taste!

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4