Looking for a quick, delicious, and low-carb dinner that feels indulgent but keeps you on track with your keto goals? Let me introduce you to a weeknight game-changer: Easy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles. This vibrant, mouthwatering dish is a flavor-packed meal made with fresh ingredients, simple seasonings, and no-fuss cooking. Plus, it’s naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and packed with protein and healthy fats.
Whether you’re deep into your keto journey or just exploring healthier meal options, this recipe deserves a spot in your dinner rotation. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want something comforting without breaking your carb bank.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about making the best keto garlic butter shrimp with zucchini noodles, from cooking tips and flavor variations to storage suggestions and frequently asked questions.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
When it comes to keto meals, simplicity and taste are everything. That’s exactly what this dish delivers:
- Quick to make – done in 25 minutes or less.
- One-pan meal – fewer dishes, less cleanup.
- Perfectly balanced – lean protein, healthy fats, and nutrient-rich veggies.
- Customizable – works with shrimp, scallops, chicken, or even salmon.
- Keto-friendly – about 5–6g net carbs per serving.
And did we mention how insanely flavorful it is? Garlic, butter, lemon juice, and a touch of paprika come together to create a sauce that’s both rich and refreshing. The zucchini noodles (a.k.a. zoodles) soak it all up, making every bite a burst of deliciousness.
Ingredients for Easy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles
Let’s talk about what goes into this easy keto dinner. The ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, especially if you cook low-carb often.
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or ghee for a paleo twist)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, adds a smoky kick)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
For the Zoodles:
- 2–3 medium zucchini, spiralized into noodles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt, to taste
Simple, clean, and keto-approved.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles
This meal comes together quickly, so it helps to have everything prepped before you start cooking. Here’s a breakdown of how to make the perfect keto garlic butter shrimp with zucchini noodles:
1. Prep the Zoodles
Start by spiralizing your zucchini into long, noodle-like strands. If you don’t have a spiralizer, many grocery stores now sell pre-spiralized zucchini in the produce section.
- Pro Tip: Zucchini holds a lot of water. To avoid a soggy dish, sprinkle the zoodles with a little salt and lay them on paper towels.
- Let them sit for 10–15 minutes, then pat them dry with fresh paper towels. This step makes a big difference in texture.
2. Sauté the Zoodles
In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Cook the zoodles for 2–3 minutes, just until they’re tender but still have a slight bite (al dente).
- Avoid overcooking, as they can turn mushy quickly.
Transfer the cooked zucchini noodles to a plate and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
Using the same skillet, add the butter and olive oil. Once melted and hot:
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Toss in the shrimp, season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using), and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the shrimp and stir in the chopped parsley for a bright finish.
The garlic butter sauce will smell incredible at this point—resist the urge to eat it straight from the pan.
4. Combine & Serve
Return the zoodles to the skillet or plate the shrimp on top of them.
- Give everything a light toss to coat with the garlic butter sauce.
- Garnish with more parsley, a few lemon wedges, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.
Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles: Nutrition Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect nutritionally per serving (based on a 2-serving recipe):
- Calories: ~300–350
- Net Carbs: ~5–6g
- Protein: ~30g
- Fat: ~20g
This makes the recipe an ideal option for keto, low-carb, and gluten-free diets, while still being satisfying and protein-rich.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zoodles
Getting this recipe just right is all about balance and timing. Here are a few tips to elevate your dish:
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – Once they turn pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery.
- Control the zoodle moisture – Salting and drying them before cooking prevents a watery plate.
- Fresh garlic is a must – Skip the jarred stuff for maximum flavor.
- Use jumbo or large shrimp – They cook evenly and hold up better in the sauce.
Delicious Variations to Try
Looking to put your own spin on this keto garlic butter shrimp with zucchini noodles? Here are some flavorful upgrades and swaps:
- Add cherry tomatoes for color and a pop of sweetness.
- Toss in baby spinach toward the end for extra nutrients.
- Make it creamy with a splash of heavy cream or coconut cream after cooking the shrimp.
- Swap the shrimp for scallops, chicken breast, or salmon fillet.
- Top with Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free cheesy note.
- Spice it up with Cajun seasoning or extra red pepper flakes.
This dish is ultra-versatile—don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Make Ahead & Storage Tips
Can you make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep components ahead:
- Spiralize and salt the zoodles, then store in the fridge.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, and keep refrigerated in an airtight container.
However, for the best texture and flavor, cook just before eating.
How to store leftovers:
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Reheat gently in a skillet to avoid overcooking the shrimp or making the zoodles soggy.
- This dish is not ideal for freezing, due to the water content in the zucchini.
What to Serve with Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp and Zoodles
This meal is great on its own, but if you’re building a complete keto dinner, consider these pairings:
- Keto Garlic Bread or Cheddar Biscuits
- Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
- Avocado Cucumber Salad
- Roasted Asparagus or Broccoli
- A glass of dry white wine (if you’re not strict keto)
It’s also great as a light lunch or part of your weekly meal prep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this dish really keto-friendly?
Yes, absolutely. Each serving contains about 5–6g of net carbs, well within keto guidelines. It’s high in protein and healthy fats, and low in sugar and starch.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the skillet.
Can I substitute zucchini noodles with something else?
If you’re not a fan of zoodles, try:
- Shirataki noodles (zero carb)
- Cabbage noodles (sautéed thin strips)
- Spaghetti squash (higher in carbs but still keto-moderate)
How can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter, and skip any cheese garnish. You’ll still get tons of flavor from the garlic, herbs, and lemon.
How spicy is this recipe?
It’s mildly spiced. Red pepper flakes are optional—add more or less depending on your heat tolerance.
Can I double this recipe for meal prep?
Yes, but keep in mind that zoodles can get soggy over time. For meal prep, store shrimp and sauce separately from the zucchini noodles and combine just before serving.
Conclusion: A Keto Dinner You’ll Actually Look Forward To
In the world of low-carb cooking, it’s easy to fall into a routine of bland, repetitive meals. But this Easy Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp with Zucchini Noodles proves that keto can be fast, flavorful, and satisfying—all while sticking to your macros.
With bold garlic flavor, tender shrimp, and light, refreshing zoodles, this dish hits all the right notes. It’s the kind of meal you’ll return to again and again—whether you’re keto for life or just looking for a better dinner option.
So go ahead, grab your skillet, and treat yourself to something that’s as good for your body as it is for your tastebuds.
