Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe – Buttery, Garlicky & Better Than Takeout
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a famous island-style dish inspired by the shrimp trucks of Hawaii’s North Shore. This flavorful recipe features juicy shrimp sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce that is packed with bold flavor in every bite. With crispy golden shrimp, plenty of fresh garlic, and a buttery sauce perfect for spooning over rice, this dish is simple yet incredibly satisfying. Enjoy this shrimp dish with a refreshing Lava Flow Drink Recipe for the ultimate tropical dining experience.
One of the best things about this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe is how quickly it comes together. In less than 30 minutes, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality seafood meal right at home. Whether you’re planning a quick weeknight dinner, a tropical-themed meal, or simply craving a delicious shrimp recipe, this Hawaiian favorite is sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- Rich garlic butter flavor
- Easy to make
- Restaurant-quality results
- Perfect with rice
- Family-friendly meal
- Great for seafood lovers

Preparation Time & Servings
| Detail | Amount |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1 lb |
| All-purpose flour | ¼ cup |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | ½ tsp |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tbsp |
| Garlic, minced | 10 cloves |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Lemon juice | 2 tbsp |
| Fresh parsley, chopped | 2 tbsp |
For Serving
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Steamed white rice | As needed |
| Lemon wedges | For serving |

How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Step 1: Season the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry and place them in a bowl. Toss with flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and toss until the shrimp are fully coated in the garlic butter sauce.
Step 5: Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately over steamed rice with lemon wedges.

Tips for the Best Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Use fresh garlic for the most authentic flavor.
- Avoid overcooking the shrimp.
- Pat shrimp dry before seasoning.
- Serve immediately while hot.
- Use large shrimp for the best texture.
Add a tropical touch to your menu with Coconut Flour Banana Bread Recipe, a delicious treat that’s great for brunch or dessert.
Delicious Variations to Try
Spicy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Coconut Hawaiian Shrimp
Serve with coconut rice for a tropical twist.
Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Toss the shrimp and sauce with cooked pasta.
Lemon Butter Shrimp
Add extra lemon juice and zest.
Low-Carb Version
Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
- Steamed white rice
- Coconut rice
- Hawaiian macaroni salad
- Grilled pineapple
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh green salad
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet.
- Avoid overheating to prevent rubbery shrimp.
- Not recommended for freezing after cooking.

Conclusion
This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Recipe brings the flavors of Hawaii right to your kitchen with juicy shrimp, plenty of fresh garlic, and a rich buttery sauce. Quick to prepare and incredibly delicious, it’s the perfect seafood meal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Serve it over rice and enjoy a taste of the islands anytime. Complete your island-inspired meal with Hawaiian Macaroni Salad, a creamy side dish that pairs perfectly with garlic shrimp.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is Hawaiian garlic shrimp so popular?
Its rich garlic butter sauce and simple preparation make it a beloved Hawaiian comfort food.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.
Do I need to leave the shells on?
No, peeled shrimp are easier to eat, though some traditional versions use shell-on shrimp.
What type of shrimp works best?
Large or jumbo shrimp provide the best flavor and texture.
Can I make it ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated.







