10-Minute Sauteed Shrimp with Garlic and Paprika Recipe
Introduction
This quick and flavorful sautéed shrimp recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a fast appetizer. With just a handful of spices and fresh garlic, you’ll have tender, juicy shrimp ready in about 10 minutes. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a bright, zesty finish.

Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp (31/35 count, peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp, spice mixture, and minced garlic. Toss until the shrimp is evenly coated with the spices.
- Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
- Step 4: Add the shrimp to the skillet and sauté for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Step 5: Remove from heat and serve immediately with freshly squeezed lemon juice from the lemon wedges.
Tips & Variations
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor, but garlic powder can be a convenient substitute.
- Add a splash of white wine or a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra brightness.
- For a milder dish, skip the crushed red pepper flakes or reduce the amount.
- Serve over rice, pasta, or a crisp salad to complete the meal.
Storage
Store leftover sautéed shrimp in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave briefly to avoid overcooking and becoming rubbery.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning and cooking to ensure even sautéing.
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked perfectly?
The shrimp is done when it turns pink and opaque all the way through, usually about 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side depending on size.
Print10-Minute Sauteed Shrimp with Garlic and Paprika Recipe
This quick and flavorful sautéed shrimp recipe is perfect for a speedy and delicious meal. With a simple blend of spices and garlic, the shrimp is cooked to tender perfection in just minutes using a cast iron skillet. Ideal for a satisfying weeknight dinner or appetizer, this dish delivers bold taste with minimal effort.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 lb Large shrimp (31/35, peeled and deveined, tails on)
- 2 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Sea salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
- 1/4 tsp Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
Cooking Oil
- 3 tbsp Olive oil
Serving
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Mix spices: In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, sea salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if using, to create a flavorful seasoning blend.
- Coat shrimp: In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with the spice mixture and minced garlic. Stir well to coat all the shrimp evenly with the spices and garlic.
- Heat oil: Place a large cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the hot skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on one side until pink and opaque, then flip and cook for another 1 1/2 to 2 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through.
- Serve: Transfer the shrimp to a serving plate and squeeze fresh lemon juice over them from the lemon wedges to enhance the bright flavors. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Use fresh or fully thawed shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Serve with rice, pasta, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
- You can substitute paprika with smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Ensure the skillet and oil are hot before adding shrimp to get a good sear.
Keywords: sautéed shrimp, quick shrimp recipe, easy shrimp sauté, paprika shrimp, garlic shrimp, weeknight dinner, cast iron skillet shrimp

