Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

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There’s something deeply satisfying about a sizzling skillet full of plump shrimp seared in golden garlic butter, with broccoli florets soaking up all that rich flavor. When I first put this dish together, I was aiming for something quick and delicious that didn’t skimp on taste or nutrition. What I didn’t expect was how often I’d come back to it week after week.

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe came from one of those late workdays when I had barely anything left in the fridge. I had a bag of frozen shrimp, a crown of broccoli, and a stick of butter. With a little garlic, lemon, and seasoning magic, dinner was on the table in 20 minutes, and my family was in awe. It tasted like something out of a restaurant—but without the price tag or effort.

I love how adaptable it is. It can be served with rice, pasta, or on its own for a lighter low-carb option. It’s the kind of meal that brings a smile to your face because it’s just that comforting, easy, and loaded with flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

If fast and flavor-packed meals are your thing, this recipe is going to win your heart. The garlic butter creates a silky, indulgent base that clings to every shrimp and broccoli bite. Shrimp cooks quickly and takes on bold flavors like garlic and lemon with ease, making each bite juicy and satisfying. The broccoli adds a needed crunch and a touch of bitterness that balances the richness perfectly.

It’s a one-pan wonder, which means cleanup is minimal. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a crowd, this dish scales easily and can be on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it looks just as good as it tastes, which is a bonus if you’re snapping a quick photo for your feed.

Let’s dive into how to make it happen.

Ingredients

Shrimp: I prefer using large or jumbo shrimp for this recipe, peeled and deveined. They cook up juicy and tender, and their natural sweetness works beautifully with garlic and butter.

Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are the way to go. Their slightly bitter, earthy flavor adds a perfect balance to the richness of the garlic butter. They also hold their texture well when cooked quickly in a skillet.

Garlic: Lots of fresh garlic is key. It’s the backbone of the sauce, infusing the butter and shrimp with bold, savory depth.

Butter: Salted or unsalted butter both work. This is where the richness of the dish shines. It coats every bite with flavor and helps create a beautiful sear on the shrimp.

Olive Oil: Just a splash helps prevent the butter from burning and adds another layer of depth.

Lemon Juice: A little acidity from lemon juice brightens up the whole dish, cutting through the richness and enhancing the shrimp.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but I highly recommend it for a subtle heat that complements the garlic beautifully.

Salt and Black Pepper: Simple but essential for enhancing the overall flavor.

How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp if they aren’t already prepped. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Mince the garlic, and have your butter, oil, and seasonings ready to go.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, until they are just tender and slightly charred. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same pan, lower the heat slightly and add the butter. Once melted, stir in the garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. Then add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and opaque.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Return the broccoli to the pan. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Toss everything together to coat in the garlic butter. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve hot, straight from the skillet.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of shrimp or simply want to try something new, thinly sliced chicken breast or scallops can easily be swapped in. They both take on the garlic butter flavor wonderfully and cook just as quickly. For a vegetarian version, mushrooms or tofu can be delicious alternatives that pair well with the broccoli.

Broccoli can also be substituted with other veggies like asparagus, snap peas, or zucchini. Just keep an eye on cooking times so they don’t get too soft. If you want to add extra bulk to the dish, stir in cooked pasta or serve it over jasmine rice or mashed potatoes.

Those avoiding butter can use a dairy-free substitute or extra olive oil. And if garlic isn’t your thing (although it really shines here), try shallots or a bit of onion powder for a milder background flavor.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

I love serving this dish over fluffy jasmine rice or a bed of garlic mashed potatoes. If I’m going for lighter fare, I’ll spoon it over cauliflower rice or just enjoy it as-is. For a Mediterranean twist, it’s also excellent served over orzo or with a wedge of lemony couscous.

Pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio to enhance the garlic butter without overpowering the shrimp. A side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad rounds it out perfectly.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep the shrimp from drying out. The microwave works too, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp or it’ll become rubbery.

Avoid freezing this dish if possible, as the shrimp and broccoli can become mushy once thawed. If you must freeze it, use it within one month and reheat gently.

FAQs

How long does Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli take to cook?

This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, including prep. It’s one of my go-to weeknight lifesavers for that reason.

Can I make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli ahead of time?

You can prep the ingredients ahead, but it’s best cooked fresh. If you do make it in advance, reheat gently on the stove to preserve the texture.

What kind of shrimp works best for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?

Large or jumbo shrimp are ideal. They stay juicy and have a satisfying bite that’s perfect for soaking up all the garlicky butter.

Is Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli gluten-free?

Yes, as long as your butter and seasonings are gluten-free, the whole dish is naturally gluten-free.

Can I use frozen shrimp for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this skillet of Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli won your heart, you’re definitely going to love this Easy Creamy Polenta Shrimp Recipe. It has that same luxurious feel with a creamy base and bold shrimp flavor. For a taste of tropical comfort, check out Hawaiian BBQ Chicken or lighten things up with a citrusy kick from Light Lemon Basil Pasta Salad with Chicken. Each one brings its own flair but stays within that easy, full-flavored weeknight cooking lane.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t let this one get lost in the shuffle—make sure to pin this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxed weekend dinner, it deserves a permanent spot in your go-to meal list.

And if you know someone who could use a new quick dinner hero, share this recipe with them on Facebook or Instagram. Tag me when you make it—I’d love to see how it turns out in your kitchen!

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