Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce

Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce is a rich, savory blend that perfectly complements crab legs, shrimp, lobster, and more. Loaded with garlic, herbs, and a hint of spice, this warm, velvety sauce takes any seafood feast to the next level. I love how easy it is to make yet how luxurious and restaurant-worthy it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this sauce because it’s simple but bursting with flavor. The garlic infuses the butter beautifully, while lemon juice adds brightness, and a dash of spices gives it a bold kick. It’s perfect for dunking, drizzling, or even tossing with seafood. Whether I’m hosting a seafood boil or just enjoying shrimp for dinner, this dipping sauce always delivers.

ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Unsalted butter

• Fresh garlic, minced

• Lemon juice

• Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning

• Paprika

• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and black pepper

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. I melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.

2. I add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

3. I stir in the lemon juice, seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.

4. I simmer the sauce on low heat for another 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.

5. I remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, if desired. I serve it warm in small bowls for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about ¾ cup of sauce and takes only 10 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Sometimes I add a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce for depth. I also like mixing in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy kick. For an herby twist, I add chopped thyme or rosemary.

storage/reheating

I store leftover sauce in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring often to keep it smooth. I don’t recommend freezing, as butter sauces can separate when thawed.

FAQs

Can I use salted butter?

Yes, but I reduce the added salt and taste the sauce before adjusting.

What’s the best seafood to pair this with?

I use it for shrimp, crab legs, lobster tails, clams, or even grilled fish—it’s incredibly versatile.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. I make it a few hours in advance and reheat gently just before serving.

Is this sauce spicy?

Only if I add red pepper flakes. I adjust the heat based on what I’m serving and who’s eating.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, I often double or triple the ingredients for seafood feasts. Just keep the ratios the same and simmer gently.

Conclusion

Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce is a quick and flavorful addition to any seafood spread. With bold garlic, zesty lemon, and warm spices, it enhances the natural sweetness of seafood and makes every bite more indulgent. Whether I’m dipping shrimp or drizzling it over lobster, this sauce is always a hit.

Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce

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• Author: Linda
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Yield: 3/4 cup
• Category: Sauce
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Seafood Garlic Butter Dipping Sauce is a rich, savory sauce made with garlic, lemon, and spices. It’s perfect for enhancing the flavor of crab, shrimp, lobster, and more.

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Ingredients

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning or Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for 1–2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in the lemon juice, seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
4. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 2–3 minutes to let the flavors blend.
5. Remove from heat and stir in fresh parsley, if desired.
6. Serve warm in small bowls for dipping.

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Notes

• Add a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce for depth.
• Mix in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a tangy twist.
• Add chopped thyme or rosemary for an herby flavor.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat gently to maintain a smooth consistency.
• Do not freeze as the butter may separate.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
• Calories: 100
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 100mg
• Fat: 11g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 3g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 30mg