If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, quick to prepare, and wonderfully satisfying, the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together juicy, perfectly cooked shrimp and tender, vibrant broccoli in a luscious garlic butter sauce with a hint of lemon and a touch of spice. Whether you want a weeknight dinner that feels special or a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste, this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe will quickly become one of your all-time favorites.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering fresh and simple ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each element adds its own unique touch, from the succulent shrimp to the fragrant garlic and zesty lemon, creating a delightful balance of taste and texture.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star of the dish, shrimp cook quickly and soak up flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds a light, fruity base for sautéing and brings everything together.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic gives the dish its irresistible aroma and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a refreshing brightness that lifts the entire recipe.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of citrus that complements the butter perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of heat without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Introduces a subtle earthiness and herbaceous note.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Gives the dish a rich and silky finish that makes every bite feel indulgent.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and a satisfying crunch, balancing the richness.
- Salt, to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- Black pepper, to taste: Adds a hint of warmth and depth.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Skillet and Garlic
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Adding olive oil and allowing it to warm sets the stage for a flavorful base. As soon as the oil is hot, introduce the minced garlic and sauté it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This brief cooking releases the garlic’s sweetness without letting it burn, which is crucial for preserving that perfect garlicky aroma.
Step 2: Toast the Spices
Next, stir in the red pepper flakes and dried thyme right into the garlic-infused oil. Let these spices toast briefly to unlock their full potential. This quick step deepens the flavor profile, giving the dish a subtle warmth and earthy undertone that you’ll notice in every bite of this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Place the peeled and deveined shrimp in the skillet, arranging them in a single layer to ensure even cooking. Allow each side to cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. The shrimp’s juiciness and tender texture are essential, so don’t overcook them—you want them just right to complement the broccoli wonderfully.
Step 4: Sauté the Broccoli in Butter
Remove the cooked shrimp temporarily, then add butter to the same skillet to melt and mingle with the leftover garlic and spice flavors. Toss in the broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal is to achieve broccoli that is tender yet retains a bit of crispness, adding both color and a satisfying crunch to the dish.
Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Combine
Sprinkle lemon juice and zest over the broccoli to brighten the flavors, then return the shrimp to the skillet. Stir everything together carefully so that the shrimp and broccoli are coated evenly in that luscious garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, and cook for an additional 2 minutes to meld all the flavors perfectly before taking it off the heat.
How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan really elevates this dish. A little extra lemon zest or a drizzle of olive oil before serving can brighten it further. These garnishes add freshness, color, and a touch of elegance to your finished plate.
Side Dishes
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, garlic butter noodles, or a crusty slice of sourdough bread to soak up every last bit of that buttery sauce. For a low-carb option, cauliflower rice works wonderfully without taking away from the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the shrimp and broccoli over a bed of creamy polenta or nestled alongside roasted baby potatoes for a comforting meal. For entertaining, try plating the shrimp on individual lettuce cups for a light, elegant appetizer or arranging the dish on a large serving platter for family-style dining that encourages sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will remain vibrant though the broccoli might soften a touch, making this dish just as satisfying the next day.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it a handy option for meal prep. Cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of water or broth can help maintain moisture. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until warmed through.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture and ensure they sear beautifully in the skillet.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
Green beans, asparagus, or snap peas make excellent alternatives, all offering a similar crisp texture and fresh flavor that pairs well with garlic butter shrimp.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes add a subtle warmth, but you can adjust the amount to your preference. Leaving them out will make the dish mild yet still full of flavor.
Can I double the recipe for a larger group?
Yes, doubling works perfectly. Just ensure you don’t overcrowd the skillet—cooking in batches helps keep the shrimp nice and tender.
What type of butter is best for this recipe?
Unsalted butter is best because it gives you full control over the seasoning. You can always add salt later according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe that makes it a keeper in any recipe box. It’s quick, delicious, and feels both indulgent and nourishing all at once. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—you’ll love how effortlessly it comes together and how deeply satisfying every bite is!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 10m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 25m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe combining succulent shrimp sautéed in garlic, butter, and spices with tender-crisp broccoli florets finished with fresh lemon zest and juice. Perfect for a healthy, low-carb dinner in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
Vegetables and Finishing Touches
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat to prepare for cooking.
- Heat Oil: Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the heated skillet and allow it to warm for about one minute.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Toast Spices: Stir in red pepper flakes and dried thyme, letting them toast briefly for enhanced flavor.
- Cook Shrimp: Arrange shrimp in a single layer in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Set Aside Shrimp: Remove cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate to prevent overcooking.
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, add the butter and swirl the pan to combine it with the garlic and oil remnants.
- Cook Broccoli: Add broccoli florets and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender yet slightly crisp.
- Add Lemon: Squeeze lemon juice over the broccoli and sprinkle with lemon zest, stirring to combine evenly.
- Combine Shrimp and Broccoli: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss gently with the broccoli mixture.
- Season: Add salt and black pepper to taste for seasoning.
- Final Cook: Cook everything together for another 2 minutes to ensure the shrimp and broccoli are well-coated and heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- Ensure shrimp is fully peeled and deveined for best texture and flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
- Do not overcook broccoli; it should remain slightly crisp for best texture.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor impact.
- This recipe can be served over rice or pasta for a more filling meal.
