Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Posted on February 3, 2026

Modified: February 3, 2026

By Antonio
A close-up shot of delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp glistening with sauce and topped with fresh parsley on a white plate.

There’s something truly magical about the aroma of New Orleans BBQ Shrimp sizzling on the stovetop, and that same feeling washes over me every time I prepare this Homemade Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. It’s a dish that instantly transports you to sun-drenched beaches with its vibrant flavors and irresistible crispness.

I remember my grandmother teaching me how to perfectly crisp shrimp, a technique she mastered through years of cooking for our big family gatherings. Now, sharing that same joy with my daughter as we make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp together, blending those classic methods with new twists, is a gift.

This recipe is not just incredibly flavorful and satisfying; it’s also wonderfully approachable for a weeknight dinner and comes together so quickly. My secret for stress-free cooking? Prep all your ingredients ahead of time!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful dish starts with a few simple ingredients that come together to create an explosion of flavor. Fresh, large shrimp are the stars, beautifully coated and crisped, then bathed in a rich, buttery garlic sauce that reminds me of the indulgence of Butter Poached Lobster Tails. I love how the garlic truly elevates the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, making it utterly irresistible. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below.

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How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Whipping up this delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is a journey in three simple steps, much like crafting a gourmet Lemon Butter Lobster Roll. First, we prepare the shrimp with a light coating for that perfect crisp. Next, they’re quickly cooked to golden perfection. Finally, we create a rich, aromatic garlic butter sauce that brings all the flavors of this beloved Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp dish together. It’s all about building layers of taste without fuss.

Pro Tips for Making This Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

When I’m making Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate the dish. These aren’t just steps; they’re little moments of kitchen wisdom passed down and discovered.

  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the shrimp, work in batches if necessary. Crowding the pan lowers the oil temperature, leading to steamed rather than crispy shrimp. Patience here pays off in texture!
  • Quality Garlic is Key: Since garlic is such a star in this Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe, use fresh garlic cloves and mince them yourself. Pre-minced garlic just doesn’t deliver the same vibrant punch of flavor.
  • My Secret Trick: My top tip is to let your butter melt slowly with the minced garlic for a few minutes before adding the other sauce ingredients. This gentle heat allows the garlic to infuse deeply into the butter, creating a much more robust and aromatic base for your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp sauce.
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How to Store Leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp

Leftover Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp can be a delightful treat, and I always make sure to store them properly so those wonderful flavors last. Once cooled, place any remaining shrimp and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, I like to gently warm them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep them from drying out, ensuring the shrimp stays tender and the sauce remains luscious. This gentle approach brings the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp back to life beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp is not only delicious but also offers some wonderful nutritional benefits for your family. Shrimp are an excellent source of lean protein, supporting muscle health, while the garlic provides beneficial antioxidants. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal that’s both satisfying and contributes to a balanced diet.

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FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Absolutely! If using frozen shrimp for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp, make sure to thaw them completely before preparing. Pat them very dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture we all love when cooking.

What can I serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. My family’s favorite is always classic white rice, as it soaks up all that incredible garlic butter sauce. You could also serve it with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or even some crusty bread to sop up every last drop.

How do I make the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp spicier?

If you enjoy a bit of a kick, you can easily adjust the spice level of your Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp. Simply increase the amount of hot sauce in the recipe to your preference. For an extra punch, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a deeper heat.

Can I prepare the sauce in advance for Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?

While it’s best to make the garlic butter sauce fresh to capture its most vibrant flavors, you can prep the ingredients for the Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp sauce ahead of time. Measure out your chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, and hot sauce, and mince your garlic so everything is ready to go when you start cooking.

A close-up shot of delicious Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp glistening with sauce and topped with fresh parsley on a white plate.
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Authentic Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp (Crispy & Flavorful)

Transport your taste buds to the North Shore with this authentic Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe, featuring plump shrimp coated in a rich, buttery, garlic sauce, perfect with a scoop of rice.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Shrimp
  • 1.5 lbs large, raw shrimp peeled, deveined, tails on or off; fresh or frozen, thawed
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 cup water cold
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil for frying, divided
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted
  • 1/4 cup chicken broth low sodium
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce low sodium
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice fresh
  • 1 tsp hot sauce optional, e.g., sriracha
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Garnish and Serving
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley chopped
  • 2 cups cooked white rice
  • 1/2 lemon lemon cut into wedges

Equipment

  • Large Skillet
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or Slotted Spoon
  • Cutting Board
  • Sharp Knife

Method
 

Prepare the Shrimp
  • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
  • Add the cold water to the flour mixture and whisk until a smooth, thin batter forms.
  • Pat the shrimp dry thoroughly with paper towels. Add the shrimp to the batter, tossing gently to coat each piece evenly. Ensure shrimp are not heavily coated, just a thin layer.
Cook the Shrimp
  • Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  • Working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, add the coated shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 1.5-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. The shrimp should be opaque and pink.
  • Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate. If cooking in batches, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil for the next batch.
Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
  • In the same skillet (no need to clean), reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
  • Pour in the melted butter, chicken broth, soy sauce, lemon juice, hot sauce (if using), and black pepper. Whisk gently to combine.
  • Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken and the flavors to meld.
Combine and Serve
  • Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to ensure all shrimp are thoroughly coated in the flavorful sauce.
  • Cook for another 1-2 minutes, just long enough to heat the shrimp through and coat them evenly.
  • Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately with a scoop of warm white rice and lemon wedges on the side.

Notes

For extra crispy shrimp, ensure they are patted very dry before coating and don't overcrowd the pan. If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add 1/2 teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon of cold water to the sauce during the simmering step, whisking until it thickens to your desired consistency. This dish is best enjoyed fresh.

Conclusion

This Homemade Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp recipe is truly a testament to how simple ingredients, made with love, can create an extraordinary meal. It’s a dish that brings smiles to faces and warmth to the kitchen, perfect for those busy weeknights or a special family gathering. I hope this easy-to-follow guide encourages you to gather your loved ones and create your own cherished memories, perhaps alongside some vibrant Shrimp Tostadas. Happy cooking from my family to yours!

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