Delicious Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp Recipe You’ll Love
If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances heat, richness, and a touch of sweetness, this Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is exactly what you need. Combining the bold flavors of gochujang (Korean chili paste) with creamy garlic butter, this easy Korean shrimp dish bursts with mouthwatering taste in every bite. Whether you’re a fan of spicy shrimp recipes or simply looking to add some exciting variety to your weeknight meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.
Designed to be ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender shrimp sautéed in garlic butter and coated in a vibrant gochujang sauce creates a winning combination that’s both addictive and satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or noodles for a complete meal. Let’s dive into how to make this unforgettable Korean spicy garlic butter shrimp at home!
Ingredients for Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 scallion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Prep the shrimp: Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat them dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant but not browned.
- Cook the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on one side until the shrimp start turning pink.
- Add the sauce ingredients: Flip the shrimp, then add gochujang, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly.
- Simmer and coat: Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are fully cooked and the sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Tips and Tricks for Perfect Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp
- Use fresh shrimp: Fresh or high-quality thawed shrimp give the best texture and flavor.
- Don’t overcook: Shrimp cook quickly; overcooking can make them rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and are opaque.
- Adjust spice levels: Gochujang packs a mild heat with sweetness, but add crushed red pepper flakes for guests who love extra spiciness.
- Butter quality matters: Using unsalted butter allows you to control seasoning better.
- Taste and balance: Adjust honey or soy sauce amounts based on your preferred level of sweetness or saltiness.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Serves 4)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 450mg
Recipe Variations to Try
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp with Vegetables: Add sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas to the skillet for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Noodles or Rice Bowl: Serve this gochujang shrimp dish over soba noodles, udon, or steamed jasmine rice for a filling meal.
- Creamy Gochujang Sauce: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk to mellow the sauce and create a creamy texture.
- Grilled Korean Shrimp: Marinate shrimp in the garlic butter gochujang sauce then grill for a smoky flavor.
- Less Spicy Version: Reduce or omit gochujang and crushed red pepper flakes for a mild garlic butter shrimp option.
Storage and Serving Suggestions
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp. This Korean spicy garlic butter shrimp pairs beautifully with steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or even tossed in salad greens to make a hearty lunch bowl. Garnish with fresh scallions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of extra sesame oil for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What can I substitute for gochujang?
If you don’t have gochujang, try mixing a tablespoon of miso paste with some chili flakes and a bit of honey for a similar sweet-spicy flavor.
Is this recipe very spicy?
Gochujang has a mild to medium heat level. You can adjust the spice by adding less gochujang or skipping the red pepper flakes.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
You can substitute shrimp with firm tofu or mushrooms and use vegan butter to create a similar flavor profile.
How long does it take to make this dish?
Prep time is about 5 minutes, cook time is 15 minutes, totaling around 20 minutes to have this delicious meal ready.
Final Thoughts
This Korean Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and bold flavors can combine to make an irresistible meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy Korean shrimp dish to impress family and friends or just craving a spicy shrimp recipe with a buttery twist, this recipe delivers in every way. The smooth garlic butter, the umami-packed gochujang, and perfectly cooked shrimp come together in a harmony of flavors that’s hard to beat. Try it tonight and enjoy a quick, tasty, and satisfying Korean-inspired seafood experience!