Introduction

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a tropical-inspired dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Hawaii straight to your kitchen. Imagine succulent shrimp tossed in a fragrant garlic butter sauce that’s infused with a subtle sweetness—like a little taste of paradise in every bite. The blend of savory garlic and rich butter with a hint of island sweetness creates a perfect balance of flavors that will have you dreaming of the beach.

I love making this dish for both weeknight dinners and special gatherings. I remember the first time I cooked Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp—it was one of those days when I needed something quick but flavorful. As the shrimp sizzled in the pan, the garlic butter filled the kitchen with the most amazing aroma, and I knew I was in for something special. When I served it with a side of rice, it felt like I had brought a piece of Hawaii into my own home. It’s just one of those dishes that makes you smile with every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy dinner at home or hosting a beach-themed party, Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is the perfect dish. It’s easy to make, bursting with flavor, and sure to impress everyone around the table. Plus, you can customize it by adding a squeeze of fresh lime or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to elevate the flavors even more. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy a taste of the tropics without leaving your kitchen!

Perfect for:

Weeknight dinners
Beach-themed parties
Tropical-inspired meals
Garlic lovers
Seafood enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Here’s why Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp will become your new go-to seafood dish:

Tropical Flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, and a touch of sweetness from the pineapple and coconut creates a uniquely Hawaiian flavor profile.

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 15-20 minutes, making it a fast option for dinner or a last-minute meal.
Perfectly Balanced: The garlic and butter sauce provides richness, while the shrimp stays light and tender, making it a perfect contrast of flavors and textures.
Versatile: Serve over rice, noodles, or with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal that can be tailored to your preferences.
Flavorful and Healthy: With minimal ingredients and no heavy frying, this dish is a lighter option without sacrificing taste.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 25 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 30g, Carbs: 10g, Fat: 20g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ cup pineapple juice (preferably fresh)
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1 tablespoon lime juice
¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: pineapple chunks, lime wedges, and extra cilantro

Ingredient Highlights

Shrimp: Fresh, large shrimp are best for this dish as they cook quickly and absorb the garlic butter sauce perfectly.
Garlic and Butter: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, flavorful sauce that makes this dish irresistible.

Pineapple Juice: A key ingredient that adds a sweet, tangy depth of flavor to balance the richness of the butter and garlic.
Soy Sauce: Provides a savory umami kick that enhances the sweetness from the pineapple and honey.
Honey or Brown Sugar: A touch of sweetness helps to round out the savory flavors and gives the dish a subtle caramelized finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with a paper towel to ensure they cook evenly.

Cook the Garlic Butter Sauce:

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt, swirling the pan to coat evenly.
Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Pineapple Juice: Pour in the pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey (or brown sugar), and ground ginger. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Season: Add lime juice, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir until well combined.

Cook the Shrimp:

Add the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep the shrimp tender.
Toss and Coat: Once the shrimp are cooked, toss them in the garlic butter sauce to coat thoroughly, ensuring each shrimp is coated with the flavorful sauce.

Garnish and Serve:

Garnish: Sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the shrimp and give it a final toss. If desired, garnish with pineapple chunks and lime wedges for an extra burst of tropical flavor.

Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice, noodles, or a salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Serve Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is versatile and can be served in a variety of ways:

Over Steamed Rice: A classic choice that allows the garlic butter sauce to soak into the rice, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
On a Bed of Noodles: Serve with coconut noodles or rice noodles for an added touch of tropical flair.
With Grilled Vegetables: Pair with grilled pineapple, bell peppers, and zucchini for a colorful and balanced plate.
In Tacos: Serve the shrimp in soft tortillas with a dollop of sour cream and fresh salsa for a Hawaiian-inspired taco.
As an Appetizer: Serve as an appetizer with toothpicks or small skewers for a party or BBQ gathering.

Additional Tips for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Here are some tips to ensure your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp turns out perfectly every time:

Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, and overcooking them can make them tough and rubbery. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
Use Fresh Pineapple Juice: Fresh pineapple juice gives the dish a more vibrant, natural sweetness compared to canned juice.
Customize the Heat: If you like a little spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely chopped chili to the garlic butter sauce.
Serve Immediately: Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is best served fresh, right after cooking, to enjoy the shrimp at their juiciest and the sauce at its most flavorful.
Make it Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version of this dish.

Recipe Variations for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Here are 10 variations you can try for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp:

Spicy Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Add a dash of sriracha or red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.

Coconut Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Stir in some coconut milk to the sauce for a creamier texture and enhanced tropical flavor.
Pineapple Coconut Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Add small chunks of fresh pineapple and shredded coconut to the dish for extra sweetness and texture.
Lemon Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Swap lime juice for lemon juice for a slightly different citrus note.
Cajun Style: Season the shrimp with Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy flavor.
Mango Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Add diced mango to the skillet for a fruity, sweet contrast to the savory shrimp.
Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for a smoky twist.
Pineapple Salsa Topping: Top the shrimp with a fresh pineapple salsa for added crunch and freshness.
Bacon-Wrapped Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp: Wrap the shrimp in bacon before cooking for a smoky, savory variation.
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Avocado: Serve with a side of fresh avocado slices for a creamy, buttery pairing.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: If you have leftovers, you can freeze the cooked shrimp with the sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
Storage: Store leftover shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The shrimp can lose their texture if stored too long, so it’s best to enjoy them soon after making.

Special Equipment for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp easier:

Large Skillet: A wide skillet is perfect for cooking the shrimp evenly and allowing the garlic butter sauce to coat them properly.
Tongs: Use tongs to turn the shrimp easily without breaking them or overcooking them.
Citrus Juicer: A citrus juicer ensures you get all the juice out of the lime for maximum flavor.
Sharp Knife: A sharp knife will make prepping the garlic, cilantro, and pineapple quick and easy.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements will ensure the perfect balance of flavors in the garlic butter sauce.

FAQ Section for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well, but be sure to thaw them properly before cooking.
Can I make the garlic butter sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it before serving.
Can I use a different type of seafood?
Yes, you can substitute shrimp with scallops or even white fish like mahi-mahi for a similar tropical dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, chopped chili peppers, or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce for an extra kick.
Is there a way to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with a plant-based butter or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.

Conclusion

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. The combination of garlic, butter, pineapple, and soy sauce creates a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors that transport your taste buds straight to the islands. Whether you’re serving it over rice, noodles, or alongside other tropical dishes, this meal brings the sunny, fresh flavors of Hawaii right to your dinner table.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With minimal ingredients and quick preparation, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready in no time. The succulent shrimp soak up all the bold flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Plus, the tropical twist from the pineapple adds a fun, unexpected element that everyone will love.

I’d love to see how your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I’d be thrilled to see your delicious creations. Leave a comment to share how you made this dish your own, and enjoy the taste of paradise!