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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

A quick and healthy weeknight dinner featuring juicy shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli coated in a rich garlic butter sauce. Ready in under 20 minutes, this easy one-pan meal combines lean protein and vibrant vegetables for a flavorful and guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb raw shrimp, fresh or thawed, peeled and deveined

Vegetables

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped into bite-sized pieces

Fats and Oils

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Flavorings

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional), to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse and pat dry the shrimp to remove excess moisture. Chop broccoli into bite-sized florets and mince the garlic cloves finely for maximum flavor release during cooking.
  2. Cook the Broccoli: In a large skillet, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets with a pinch of salt and pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until they turn bright green and become tender-crisp, locking in their fresh crunch.
  3. Sauté the Shrimp: Push the broccoli to one side of the pan. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the empty side, then add the shrimp. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and curl slightly. Avoid overcooking to keep shrimp tender and juicy.
  4. Add Garlic and Butter: Reduce heat to low. Add the minced garlic and the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the shrimp and broccoli in the garlic butter sauce, allowing the garlic to soften without burning and flavors to meld.
  5. Finish with Lemon: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the dish and sprinkle red pepper flakes if using. Toss everything together one last time, then remove from heat. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use room temperature shrimp to ensure even cooking and tender texture.
  • Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp to allow proper searing and avoid steaming.
  • Add garlic after shrimp almost finish cooking to prevent burning and bitterness.
  • Prefer fresh herbs like parsley for a brighter flavor and vibrant color.
  • Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and lemon juice just before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, shrimp and broccoli, quick dinner, healthy shrimp recipe, one pan meal, weeknight dinner