There’s something extraordinary about the aroma of Indian spices wafting through your kitchen, instantly transporting you to a bustling market in Mumbai. When I first tried Indian Butter Shrimp, I was blown away by the rich flavors that danced on my palate—the succulent shrimp nestled in a creamy, buttery masala sauce so delicious it felt like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a delightful surprise that seamlessly fits into my routine. Pair it with fluffy basmati rice or soft naan bread, and you’ve got a meal that not only impresses guests but also satisfies a hungry family without the hassle of takeout.
If you’re tired of the same old meals and craving something that packs a punch, this Quick and Creamy Indian Butter Shrimp is the answer. Let’s dive into the flavors and textures that will transform your weeknight dinners into something truly special!
Why is Indian Butter Shrimp a Must-Try?
Simplicity & Speed: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings or when unexpected guests arrive.
Rich & Creamy: The luscious butter sauce envelops tender shrimp, creating a decadent meal that tastes like it’s from a five-star restaurant.
Flavor Explosion: Featuring aromatic spices like garam masala and vibrant ginger, each bite burst with unforgettable Indian flavors.
Versatile Pairing: Serve it with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan to soak up that creamy sauce, elevating your dining experience effortlessly.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether you’re feeding a family or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
If you’re looking for quick cooking ideas, don’t forget to check out our delicious side dishes that pair perfectly with this dish!
Indian Butter Shrimp Ingredients
For the Shrimp
• Shrimp – Use peeled and deveined shrimp for quick cooking.
• Garlic (minced) – Fresh garlic adds a punch of flavor that elevates the dish.
• Ginger (grated) – Fresh ginger provides warmth and depth to the sauce.
• Salt – Essential for seasoning; feel free to adjust to taste.
• Turmeric Powder – Adds vibrant color and subtle earthiness to your sauce.
• Red Chili Powder or Paprika – Adjust the heat level to match your spice preference.
• Oil – A neutral oil helps with cooking; choose what you have on hand.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens up the dish with a touch of acidity.
For the Sauce
• Unsalted Butter – The star ingredient for a creamy sauce that enhances richness.
• Red Onion (diced) – Sweetness and crunch add texture to the dish.
• Tomato (diced) – Adds moisture and a slight tang to balance the flavors.
• Cashews – Incorporate creaminess and crunch; substitute with almonds for a nut-free version.
• Garam Masala – This spice blend gives the dish its authentic Indian flavor.
• Sugar – Balances the acidity of the tomatoes while adding depth.
• Water – Aids in creating the smooth consistency of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Ensures the sauce is rich and luxurious, perfect for your Indian Butter Shrimp.
For Garnish
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro offers a burst of flavor that complements the dish beautifully.
How to Make Indian Butter Shrimp
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Marinate Shrimp: Start by combining the shrimp with minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, oil, and lemon juice. Allow the mixture to sit in the fridge for 20-30 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
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Cook Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium flame and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cook the marinated shrimp for 4-5 minutes, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
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Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, minced garlic, grated ginger, diced cashews, and red onion. Sauté until the onions are translucent, then add the diced tomatoes, cooking until they soften and integrate into the mix.
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Blend Sauce: Stir in the spices—red chili powder, garam masala, and sugar—along with a quarter cup of water. Blend everything together into a smooth puree using an immersion blender for the creamiest texture.
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Simmer: Return the sauce to heat, then add the cooked shrimp back into the skillet along with another quarter cup of water. Allow it to simmer for about 3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
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Finish: Stir in heavy cream until fully incorporated and warm. Garnish with fresh cilantro right before serving. This dish shines when paired with fluffy basmati rice or warm naan!
Optional: Drizzle with a little extra lemon juice for a delightful zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Indian Butter Shrimp
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: Freeze cooked Indian Butter Shrimp for up to 2 months. Make sure to seal it tightly in a freezer-safe bag to maintain freshness.
Thawing: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Make-Ahead: Marinate the shrimp in advance and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours for extra flavor before cooking.
What to Serve with Indian Butter Shrimp?
Indulging in the creamy goodness of Indian Butter Shrimp opens the door to mouthwatering possibilities for a vibrant meal.
- Fluffy Basmati Rice: Perfect for soaking up the buttery sauce, fragrant basmati rice adds a gentle aroma that harmonizes with the shrimp’s spices.
- Warm Garlic Naan: Freshly baked naan is versatile and perfect for dipping into that rich sauce, enhancing each bite with its soft, pillowy texture.
- Crisp Side Salad: A fresh salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the creamy richness of the dish.
- Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies like bell peppers and zucchini offer a sweet contrast and a touch of nutrition that ties the meal together beautifully.
- Mango Chutney: This sweet and tangy condiment pairs exquisitely with Indian flavors, providing a pop of flavor that complements the shrimp perfectly.
- Coconut Lassi: This refreshing yogurt-based drink cools your palate and adds a delightful twist that beautifully contrasts the spices of the dish.
- Cardamom Rice Pudding: A subtly sweet dessert, flavored with cardamom and topped with nuts, makes for a sumptuous conclusion to a delightful meal.
- Spicy Samosas: These crispy pastries filled with spiced potatoes or veggies are a great appetizer that ignites the taste buds before diving into the main course.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This nutritious alternative to rice adds a zesty flavor that complements the richness of the shrimp, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
- Masala Chai: Conclude your meal with a warm cup of spiced tea, whose aromatic flavors provide comfort and warmth, perfectly finishing your culinary journey.
Tips for the Best Indian Butter Shrimp
• Timing is Key: Start cooking basmati rice before making the shrimp to ensure everything is ready to serve at the same time.
• Perfect Shrimp Texture: Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they should be tender and just pink. Remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque.
• Smooth Sauce: For the best mouthfeel, blend the sauce until completely smooth. This creates a velvety texture that enhances the dish’s luxuriousness.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adjusting the amount of red chili powder or paprika based on your preference—don’t shy away from tasting as you go!
• Alternative Ingredients: Feel free to swap shrimp for chicken or tofu for a different protein experience in your Indian Butter Shrimp preparation.
Make Ahead Options
These Indian Butter Shrimp are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp up to 24 hours in advance; simply combine them with garlic, ginger, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, oil, and lemon juice, then refrigerate. Additionally, you can prepare the sauce up to 3 days in advance by sautéing the ingredients and blending them into a smooth puree—store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just heat the sauce, add the shrimp, and let it simmer for a few minutes before stirring in the heavy cream for that creamy finish. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal with minimal effort during busy weeknights!
Indian Butter Shrimp Variations
Feel free to explore new flavors and ingredients to make this dish uniquely yours!
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Chicken or Tofu: Swap shrimp for diced chicken breast or firm tofu for a delightful alternative.
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Coconut Cream: Replace heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version that adds a tropical twist.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or extra red chili powder for those who crave more heat in their meal.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like mint or basil to elevate the aromatic experience of your Indian Butter Shrimp.
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Vegetable Boost: Add in vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for a colorful and nutritious enhancement.
For a deeply satisfying flavor, sauté vegetables before adding the tomato for a complex base. Each veggie pairs harmoniously with the creamy sauce, making your dish even heartier.
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Nut-Free Option: Swap cashews for sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely for those with allergies, while still keeping a creamy texture.
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Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup for a touch of sweetness that beautifully balances the spices.
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Smoky Flavor: Mix in a teaspoon of smoked paprika to introduce a subtle smokiness that will enhance the overall dish.
Indian Butter Shrimp Recipe FAQs
What type of shrimp should I use for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, use peeled and deveined shrimp—fresh or frozen. If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them in the fridge overnight or quickly under cold running water before marinating.
How long can I store leftovers of Indian Butter Shrimp?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, ensuring the shrimp do not overcook during reheating.
Can I freeze Indian Butter Shrimp?
Absolutely! You can freeze cooked Indian Butter Shrimp for up to 2 months. Make sure to store it in a freezer-safe bag, pressing out as much air as possible for optimal freshness.
What should I do if the shrimp are overcooked?
If you find your shrimp are a bit overcooked, don’t worry! While they won’t be as tender, you can still salvage the dish by adding a splash more cream or a bit of broth to help keep the sauce creamy and delicious.
Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
Very! For a nut-free dish, simply substitute cashews with sunflower seeds or skip them altogether. If you’re avoiding dairy, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream for an equally creamy texture but with a unique flavor twist.
How do I make ahead of time for Indian Butter Shrimp?
Of course! You can marinate the shrimp in advance—store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This will enhance the flavor. Just make sure to cook the shrimp right before you’re ready to serve for the best taste!
Creamy Indian Butter Shrimp Ready in 30 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Marinate Shrimp: Combine the shrimp with minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, turmeric, red chili powder, oil, and lemon juice. Refrigerate for 20-30 minutes.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium flame and add a tablespoon of unsalted butter. Cook the shrimp for 4-5 minutes until pink and opaque. Set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter, garlic, ginger, cashews, and onion. Sauté until translucent, then add diced tomatoes. Cook until softened.
- Blend Sauce: Stir in red chili powder, garam masala, and sugar with a quarter cup of water. Blend until smooth using an immersion blender.
- Simmer: Add the cooked shrimp and another quarter cup of water to the sauce. Simmer for about 3 minutes to meld flavors.
- Finish: Stir in heavy cream until warm and incorporated. Garnish with cilantro before serving.