Easy One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas for Busy Nights

Elizabeth

Founder of Her Recipe Box

One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas

November 2, 2025

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There’s something incredibly satisfying about tossing together a meal that’s bursting with flavor yet requires just one pan—and this One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas hits that sweet spot perfectly. The moment the garlic hits the warm butter, the kitchen fills with an irresistible aroma that promises something special. Crisp snow peas add a fresh crunch, while succulent shrimp soak up every bit of garlicky goodness. Whether you’re looking to shake up your weeknight routine or impress without the fuss, this dish delivers bold taste and effortless cleanup—a combo every home cook dreams of. Trust me, once you try it, this will become your go-to for a quick, vibrant dinner that feels homemade without hours in the kitchen.

Why choose One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas?

Simplicity shines with just one pan to clean, perfect for busy nights. Bursting flavor comes from the rich garlic butter that coats every bite. Fresh crunch from snow peas adds a lovely texture contrast. Quick cooking means dinner’s ready in minutes, ideal for any schedule. Plus, it’s a light yet satisfying meal that feels homemade and impressive without effort.

One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas Ingredients

For the Shrimp and Veggies

Large shrimp, peeled and deveined – choose fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
Snow peas – pick bright green, crisp pods for that perfect fresh crunch.
Garlic cloves, minced – the star that brings irresistible aroma and depth to this one-pan wonder.
Butter – use unsalted for control over seasoning and luscious richness in the garlic butter sauce.
Olive oil – helps sear the shrimp beautifully and keeps the butter from burning.
Salt and black pepper – simple seasoning to enhance all natural flavors without overpowering.

For the Finishing Touches

Fresh lemon juice – a splash brightens the dish with a zesty lift that balances buttery richness.
Chopped parsley – adds a fresh green pop and subtle earthiness to finish the recipe perfectly.

The balance of these ingredients is what makes this One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas recipe so quick to prepare yet utterly satisfying!

How to Make One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas

Heat butter and oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil until foaming and shimmering hot, about 2 minutes.
Sauté garlic: Add 3 minced garlic cloves and cook, stirring constantly, until soft and fragrant, about 30 seconds or when the garlic turns a pale golden hue.
Cook shrimp: Arrange 1 pound peeled shrimp in a single layer, season with salt and pepper, and sear 2 minutes per side until pink, curled, and slightly crisp at the edges.
Add snow peas: Toss 2 cups snow peas into the pan, stirring for about 1 minute until pods brighten to vivid green and remain crisp-tender, perfectly coated in garlic butter.

For the Finishing Touches:

Finish and garnish: Drizzle 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and peas, sprinkle 2 tablespoons chopped parsley, then toss gently to coat everything in bright, herby flavor.

Optional: Serve with crusty bread to soak up extra garlic butter.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas

Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp: To keep shrimp tender and juicy, avoid cooking straight from frozen; thaw completely in the fridge or under cold running water.
Mind the garlic timing: Garlic cooks fast—add it once butter is hot and watch carefully to avoid burning, which turns it bitter and spoils the dish’s flavor.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: Sear shrimp in a single layer to get a nice sear and even cooking; crowded pans cause steaming instead of browning.
Cook snow peas last: Add them near the end to keep their vibrant color and crisp texture, preserving that fresh crunch everyone loves.
Balance with acidity: The fresh lemon juice brightens the rich garlic butter sauce—don’t skip it, as it elevates and lightens the flavors beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that the shrimp may lose some of its texture over time.

Freezer: While not ideal for freezing due to texture changes, you can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: To warm up, place the shrimp and snow peas in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of fresh lemon juice to revitalize flavor. Stir gently until heated through.

One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas Variations

Feel free to infuse your personal touch into this dish and elevate its flavors in exciting ways.

Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while sautéing garlic for a delightful heat that lingers.
This twist introduces a warm, spicy element that dances on the palate and complements the rich butter.
Coconut Curry: Replace half the butter with coconut milk and add curry powder for a tropical twist.
The creamy coconut mellow the flavors and transform this dish into a comforting curry experience.
Asian Fusion: Toss in some sliced bell peppers and a splash of soy sauce for an Asian-inspired flavor burst.
This variation enhances the dish with savory umami notes, taking your taste buds on an adventure.
Herb Explosion: Substitute parsley with fresh basil or cilantro for an aromatic lift and brighter flavor profile.
Each herb introduces a unique aroma, inviting freshness that perfectly complements the shrimp.
Veggie Boost: Add broccoli florets or snap peas to the sautéed mix for added color, flavor, and nutrients.
These veggies not only enhance visual appeal but also offer extra crunch and health benefits.
Zesty Lemon Herb: Boost lemon flavor with lemon zest in addition to juice for an even fresher taste.
The zest amplifies the dish’s brightness, making every bite feel refreshing and invigorating.
Garlic Lover’s Delight: Increase the garlic to 5 cloves for an intensified aromatic experience, perfect for garlic fans.
This variation turns your meal into a fragrant feast, enveloping the shrimp in the robust essence of garlic.
Quinoa Base: Serve the shrimp over a bed of fluffy quinoa instead of just on the plate for extra heartiness.
This adds a nutty flavor and a gentle chew, transforming your dish into a complete meal with textures galore.

What to Serve with One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas?

Looking to create the perfect meal to complement your delightful shrimp dish? Let’s build a meal that excites your senses and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Savory Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice with herbs absorbs the garlic butter sauce, creating a harmonious flavor union.
Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty bread to soak up extra sauce is a must-have; the garlicky aroma complements the dish beautifully.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrition and a tender crunch, balancing the rich garlic butter taste.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp, refreshing cucumbers tossed in a light vinaigrette provide a lovely contrast to the dish’s richness.
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink with bright notes keeps the meal light and invigorating, enhancing the fresh lemon in your shrimp.
Cheesecake Bites: For dessert, these creamy, decadent bites provide the perfect sweet ending without overwhelming the palate.

Each side enhances the savory and zesty qualities of your One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas. Enjoy your culinary creation!

Make Ahead Options

These One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! To save time during your busy weeknights, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce (just melted butter and minced garlic) up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the flavors fresh and vibrant. Additionally, you can wash and trim the snow peas ahead of time; they stay crisp in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply heat the prepped sauce and toss in the shrimp and snow peas; they’ll cook up just as delicious as if you made them fresh. With these simple steps, you’ll have a quick, flavorful dinner ready in minutes!

One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Fresh shrimp should have a mild sea scent, firm texture, and translucent flesh with a slight sheen. If using frozen shrimp, thaw thoroughly in the fridge or under cold running water to ensure juicy, tender results.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Snow Peas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps flavors fresh, though shrimp texture may soften slightly over time—reheating gently helps maintain its appeal.

Can I freeze the leftovers, and how should I thaw them?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. To thaw, place in the refrigerator overnight. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of fresh lemon juice to bring back the dish’s vibrant flavor.

What do I do if the garlic burns during cooking?
Burnt garlic turns bitter and can overwhelm the dish. To avoid this, add garlic only once the butter is hot and watch carefully, cooking just until fragrant and pale golden—about 30 seconds. If it burns, discard and start the garlic step again for best taste.

Is this dish safe for people with shellfish allergies or pets?
Shrimp is a shellfish that can trigger severe allergies, so avoid serving this to guests or pets with sensitivities. Always inform anyone with allergies before serving and never let pets consume seasoned foods, as some ingredients like garlic can be toxic to them.