Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Succulent shrimp pan-seared to golden perfection and served with a rich garlic hibachi butter sauce, inspired by popular hibachi flavors. This japanese-inspired seafood ready in about 20 minutes blends large shrimp, peeled and deveined, unsalted butter, garlic cloves, minced into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 2, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 10 min Cook: 10 min Serves 2 Japanese cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Pat dry 12 oz large shrimp, then season lightly with 1/4 tsp black pepper. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Step 2: Add the shrimp in a single layer and sear for 2 minutes on each side until opaque and golden around edges, then remove shrimp and keep warm.
  3. Step 3: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 4 tbsp unsalted butter along with 3 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and garlic is softened but not browned.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice, and 1 tsp sesame oil, cooking for another 30 seconds until sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Step 5: Return shrimp to skillet and toss to coat evenly with the garlic hibachi butter sauce.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat, sprinkle 2 thinly sliced scallions over the shrimp, and serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 20 minutes (10 min prep + 10 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 2 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 2). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Pan-Seared Shrimp with Garlic Hibachi Butter Sauce?

Japanese seafood like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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