If you’ve ever been to Hawaii, you know the magic of a good Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe. Picture this: golden, crispy shrimp coated in buttery, garlicky goodness, just like the ones from the famous food trucks on Oahu’s North Shore. The first time I tried it, I was hooked—simple ingredients, bold flavors, and that irresistible crunch. The best part? You don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy it. Today, I’ll show you how to make this garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe right in your own kitchen, using an easy step-by-step method. Grab your shrimp, and let’s get cooking.
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What is Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Imagine pulling up to a sun-soaked food truck on Oahu’s North Shore, the smell of sizzling garlic butter filling the air. That’s the essence of a Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe—a simple yet bold dish that captures the flavors of Hawaii in every bite.
This dish became famous thanks to legendary shrimp trucks like Giovanni’s, where fresh shrimp are pan-fried in a rich garlic butter sauce and served over a bed of white rice. The magic? A light, crispy coating that soaks up the buttery, garlicky goodness while keeping the shrimp tender and juicy.
Unlike other garlic shrimp recipes, this Hawaiian-style version doesn’t rely on heavy sauces or complex spices. Instead, it’s all about fresh garlic, butter, lemon, and just a hint of seasoning. Whether you’re craving an authentic Giovanni’s garlic shrimp recipe experience or just looking for a quick, flavorful meal, this dish delivers every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients come together to create bold, unforgettable flavors. If you’ve ever had garlic shrimp Hawaiian style, you know that buttery garlic sauce, crispy shrimp, and a squeeze of lemon are all you really need.
Here’s what you’ll need to make it at home:
Main Ingredients
- Shrimp – Go for shell-on shrimp if you want an authentic, street food-style bite, but peeled and deveined shrimp work just as well for convenience.
- Garlic – Lots of it, Fresh, minced garlic is key to getting that rich, garlicky flavor.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps carry the garlic flavor through every bite.
- Olive oil – Used for frying to get the perfect crispy texture.
- Mochiko flour (or cornstarch) – This gives the shrimp that light, golden crust.
- Paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness and color. Use sweet or spicy paprika, depending on your taste.
- Salt & pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- Lemon juice – A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the dish and balances the richness.
Substitutions for Dietary Needs
- Shrimp recipes no garlic? If you need a garlic-free option, swap garlic for onion powder or smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Dairy-free version? Use ghee or extra olive oil instead of butter.
These simple ingredients come together to make one of the most iconic garlic shrimp recipes straight from Hawaii’s North Shore.
How to Make Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp (Step-by-Step Guide)
Making this Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe at home is easier than you think, It’s all about getting that crispy texture, infusing the shrimp with garlicky goodness, and finishing it off with a buttery, lemony kick. If you’ve ever dreamed of recreating Giovanni’s garlic shrimp recipe, this step-by-step guide will get you there. Let’s dive in.
Step 1: Prep the Shrimp
Start by patting your shrimp dry with a paper towel—this helps them crisp up instead of turning soggy. If you’re using shell-on shrimp (which I highly recommend for that authentic Hawaiian garlic shrimp experience), leave the shells intact but devein them. If you prefer peeled shrimp, that works too.
Next, toss the shrimp in a light coating of mochiko flour (or cornstarch), paprika, salt, and pepper. This gives them a beautiful golden crust when fried.
Step 2: Cook the Garlic Butter Sauce
In a small pan, melt butter over low heat—this is key to infusing the butter with all that garlicky flavor without burning it. Add in a ton of minced garlic and let it gently cook until fragrant and golden. The smell alone will transport you straight to a Hawaiian food truck.
Pro tip: Don’t rush this step. Burnt garlic turns bitter, and we want smooth, buttery garlic goodness.
Step 3: Fry the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a cast-iron skillet (or any heavy pan) over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shrimp in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan, Let them sizzle for about 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn crispy and beautifully golden.
Once all the shrimp are cooked, set them aside and get ready for the best part.
Step 4: Toss Everything Together
Now, return the cooked shrimp to the pan and pour that rich garlic butter sauce all over them. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes, making sure the shrimp soak up every drop of flavor.
At this point, your kitchen will smell like a Hawaiian food truck, and trust me—you’ll be tempted to sneak a bite before serving. (Go ahead, I won’t tell).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Spoon the shrimp over a bed of steamed white rice, drizzle any extra garlic butter on top, and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. That citrusy zing balances out the richness and makes every bite irresistible.
Hawaiian-style tip: Want the full island experience? Serve your garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe with a side of Hawaiian mac salad or pineapple slaw for that perfect sweet-savory combo.
And that’s it—you just made an authentic Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe right in your own kitchen, Get ready to be obsessed.
Tips for the Best Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Alright, friend—if you want to nail this Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe, you’ve got to get a few things just right. It’s not complicated, but the little details make all the difference. Here’s how to take your shrimp from good to seriously mind-blowing.
1. Use Fresh Shrimp (If You Can)
Nothing beats the taste and texture of fresh shrimp. If you’re lucky enough to get wild-caught shrimp, even better. But if you’re working with frozen shrimp, no worries—just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them super dry before cooking. The drier the shrimp, the crispier they’ll get.
2. Don’t Skimp on the Garlic (Seriously, Don’t)
The star of this garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe is, well… garlic. The more, the better. Fresh garlic gives you that bold, slightly sweet, and aromatic kick that makes this dish unforgettable. And whatever you do, don’t rush cooking the garlic—burnt garlic is a one-way ticket to Bitterville, and nobody wants that.
3. Get That Perfect Golden Crust
That light, crispy coating? It’s all about the flour. Traditional Hawaiian shrimp recipes use mochiko flour (sweet rice flour) for a delicate crunch, but cornstarch works just as well. A light dusting is all you need—don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with a thick batter instead of a crispy crust.
4. Use a Cast-Iron Skillet for Maximum Flavor
If you’ve ever had Giovanni’s garlic shrimp recipe, you know it has that deep, rich, almost smoky flavor. That’s because it’s cooked on a well-seasoned griddle. To recreate that at home, use a cast-iron skillet. It holds heat like a champ and gives the shrimp that beautiful golden sear.
5. Cook the Shrimp Fast—No Overcooking
Shrimp cook fast. Like, blink and they’re done fast. Overcooked shrimp turn rubbery, and that’s a tragedy we can all avoid. Sear them for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and slightly crispy. Then, get them off the heat ASAP.
6. Let the Flavors Mingle Before Digging In
I know, I know—you’re ready to devour this dish the second it hits the plate. But trust me on this: let the shrimp sit for a couple of minutes after tossing them in that garlicky butter sauce. It gives the flavors time to soak in, making every bite even more incredible.
7. A Squeeze of Lemon = The Secret Weapon
That final squeeze of fresh lemon juice? Game changer. It cuts through the richness of the butter and garlic, adding the perfect touch of brightness. Don’t skip it.
What to Serve with Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Alright, you’ve just made the most mouthwatering Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe—crispy, buttery, and packed with garlicky goodness. But what do you serve alongside it to complete the island-style feast? Trust me, the right sides can take this dish from “delicious” to “absolutely unforgettable.”
1. Steamed White Rice (A Must-Have)
If you’ve ever visited the famous shrimp trucks on Oahu’s North Shore, you know garlic shrimp Hawaiian style is always served over a generous scoop of white rice. Why? Because it soaks up every drop of that rich, garlicky butter sauce, making sure none of that flavor goes to waste.
Pro tip: Want to go the extra mile? Drizzle a little extra melted butter and garlic over the rice before serving. It’s a simple touch, but it makes a world of difference.
2. Hawaiian Mac Salad (The Creamy Contrast)
For the full island plate lunch experience, add a scoop of Hawaiian mac salad on the side. This isn’t your typical macaroni salad—it’s ultra-creamy, slightly tangy, and the perfect cooling contrast to the bold flavors of garlic shrimp recipe Hawaiian style.
I still remember the first time I had this combo at a food truck in Haleiwa. The way the creamy mac salad balanced out the garlicky shrimp was a total game-changer. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
3. Pineapple Slaw (Sweet & Tangy Twist)
Want a refreshing, tropical touch? A pineapple slaw is the way to go. It’s crunchy, slightly sweet, and adds a zesty contrast to the rich Hawaiian garlic shrimp. Just toss shredded cabbage with fresh pineapple chunks, a squeeze of lime juice, and a hint of honey for a quick, vibrant side.
Island tip: If you love bold flavors, add a pinch of chili flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy kick.
4. Grilled Pineapple (A Little Smoky, A Little Sweet)
Something magical happens when you throw fresh pineapple slices on the grill. The heat caramelizes the natural sugars, giving you a smoky-sweet bite that pairs perfectly with the garlicky, buttery shrimp.
Try this: Grill the pineapple for just 2-3 minutes per side and squeeze some fresh lime juice on top before serving. The citrusy zing brings everything together!
5. Garlic Butter Corn on the Cob
Since this Hawaii garlic shrimp recipe is already loaded with garlicky goodness, why not keep the theme going? Brushed with butter and sprinkled with garlic and a touch of sea salt, grilled or boiled corn on the cob is an easy yet delicious side dish.
Want to switch it up? Add a tropical twist by brushing the corn with a little coconut milk before grilling. It adds a subtle sweetness that complements the shrimp beautifully!
6. Coconut Rice (For an Extra Tropical Vibe)
If you want something a little fancier than plain rice, try coconut rice. Cook your rice with coconut milk instead of water, and you’ll get a subtly sweet, creamy base that pairs beautifully with garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe.
Bonus tip: Add a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top for extra flavor and crunch.
7. Fresh Mango Salsa (Bright & Refreshing)
A cool, juicy mango salsa is another great way to balance out the richness of the shrimp. Just dice up fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño, then toss it with lime juice and a pinch of salt. It’s sweet, tangy, and has just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.
Feeling adventurous? Swap mango for papaya or even grilled peaches for a unique twist.
Storing & Reheating Leftovers
Alright, let’s be real—leftover Hawaiian garlic shrimp doesn’t happen often. It’s the kind of dish that disappears fast, But if you somehow manage to save a few pieces (or made an extra batch—smart move!), you’ll want to store and reheat them properly to keep that crispy, garlicky magic alive.
How to Store Leftovers (Without Losing Flavor)
For best results, store your garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe in an airtight container in the fridge. Here’s how:
- Let them cool first. Piling hot shrimp into a container traps steam, making them soggy. Give them a few minutes to cool before storing.
- Use an airtight container. This keeps the shrimp fresh and prevents your fridge from smelling like garlic butter (unless that’s your vibe).
- Eat within 3 days. While technically safe for longer, shrimp taste best when enjoyed fresh.
Pro tip: Store any leftover garlic butter sauce separately. You’ll thank yourself later when you drizzle it over reheated shrimp (or even over fresh rice).
The Best Way to Reheat Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp
Now, let’s talk about warming up your leftovers without turning them into rubbery disappointments.
Skillet Method (Best for Crispiness)
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil or butter in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the shrimp in a single layer and sauté for 1-2 minutes per side—just until heated through.
- Toss with any extra garlic butter sauce for that fresh-cooked taste.
Oven Method (Great for Larger Batches)
- Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Spread the shrimp on a baking sheet and cover loosely with foil to prevent drying out.
- Heat for 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Avoid the Microwave!
I know it’s tempting, but microwaving shrimp can make them rubbery. If you must, use low power (50%) in 10-second bursts, stirring in between.
Can You Freeze Hawaiian Garlic Shrimp?
Technically, yes—but I wouldn’t recommend it. Shrimp tends to lose its texture after freezing and reheating. If you do freeze it:
- Store in a freezer-safe bag with as much air removed as possible.
- Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat using the skillet method for best results.
The Takeaway
While fresh is always best, a little care in storing and reheating can keep your Hawaiian shrimp recipe tasting just as amazing the next day. And honestly? That leftover garlic butter sauce might be even better the second time around. 😉
FAQs
You’ve got questions? I’ve got answers, Let’s dive into some of the most common ones about this Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe—because trust me, I’ve been there, wondering the same things before making my first batch
1. Can I make this garlic shrimp recipe Hawaiian style without butter?
Absolutely, While butter gives the shrimp that classic rich flavor, you can swap it out if needed. For a dairy-free option, use ghee or olive oil. Ghee still gives you that luscious, buttery taste but without the dairy proteins. Olive oil, on the other hand, adds a slightly fruitier, lighter touch. Either way, your garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe will still be loaded with flavor.
2. How does this compare to Giovanni’s garlic shrimp recipe?
If you’ve ever eaten at Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck on Oahu’s North Shore, you know their shrimp is legendary. This recipe is a homemade version inspired by Giovanni’s garlic shrimp recipe—it’s garlicky, buttery, and packed with bold flavors. The biggest difference? Giovanni’s uses a ton of garlic (we’re talking small mountain levels), and they leave the shrimp shells on for extra crunch. If you want that true Hawaiian garlic shrimp experience, keep the shells on and go heavy on the garlic.
3. Can I make a Hawaiian shrimp recipe with frozen shrimp?
Yep! No fresh shrimp? No problem. Just thaw them properly first. Here’s how:
- Place frozen shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes.
- Pat them completely dry with a paper towel before cooking—this helps them get crispy instead of soggy.
Pro tip: Avoid pre-cooked shrimp—they won’t absorb the buttery garlic sauce as well, and they’ll likely overcook.
4. What’s the best type of shrimp to use?
For an authentic Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe, go for large, shell-on shrimp. The shells help lock in flavor and create that delicious crunch when pan-fried. But if you prefer easy peeling, peeled and deveined shrimp work great too.
5. Can I make this shrimp recipe with no garlic?
I get it—garlic isn’t for everyone. While garlic is the star of this dish, you can tweak the flavors. Try using onion powder, smoked paprika, or even a little miso paste for depth. It won’t be a classic Hawaii garlic shrimp recipe, but it’ll still be delicious.
6. Can I grill the shrimp instead of pan-frying?
You sure can, While the crispy coating comes from pan-frying, you can still get amazing flavors on the grill. Just marinate the shrimp in the garlic butter sauce, skewer them, and grill for 2-3 minutes per side. Serve with extra garlic butter drizzled on top.
7. What can I serve with this Hawaiian garlic shrimp?
The best side? Steamed white rice—it soaks up all that garlicky, buttery goodness. But if you want variety, try:
- Hawaiian mac salad (for the full plate lunch experience)
- Grilled pineapple (sweet and smoky contrast)
- Pineapple slaw (crunchy and refreshing)
- Garlic butter corn on the cob (because more garlic = more happiness)
8. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
If you somehow have leftovers (rare, but it happens), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating:
- Skillet: The best method Heat a little butter or olive oil in a pan and sauté the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side.
- Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes.
- Avoid the microwave—it makes the shrimp rubbery.
9. Can I freeze this garlic shrimp Hawaiian recipe?
Technically, yes—but I wouldn’t. Shrimp lose their crispy texture when frozen and reheated. If you must, freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months, then reheat in a skillet for best results.
Final Thoughts
Bringing the taste of Hawaii into your kitchen has never been easier. This Hawaiian garlic shrimp recipe is a perfect balance of bold garlic flavor, buttery richness, and crispy shrimp goodness—just like the iconic shrimp trucks on Oahu’s North Shore. Whether you’re reminiscing about a past trip to Hawaii or simply looking to add a new favorite to your dinner rotation, this dish is a must-try.
The best part? It comes together quickly with just a few simple ingredients, making it an easy go-to meal for busy nights. Plus, with the flexibility to adjust flavors and dietary needs, you can truly make it your own.
Now it’s your turn, Give this recipe a try and experience a taste of the islands right at home. And don’t forget to share your results—leave a comment below and let us know how your Hawaiian garlic shrimp turned out.