The first bite of garlic butter shrimp and broccoli transports you straight to a cozy coastal eatery. Imagine succulent shrimp glistening in a buttery, garlicky glaze, mingling with perfectly tender broccoli that adds a pop of vibrant green. Parmesan crusted cod with broccolini The aroma wafting through your kitchen is enough to make anyone abandon their diet in favor of this delicious dish. It’s like a flavor explosion that dances on your taste buds and leaves you craving more.
Every time I whip up garlic butter shrimp and broccoli, I’m reminded of my college days when quick meals were my survival strategy. This dish not only satisfies hunger but also brings a smile to my face as I recall those carefree evenings spent experimenting with flavors. Sweet potato black bean chili Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impromptu gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Get ready for a delightful culinary experience that you’ll want to savor again and again!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This garlic butter shrimp and broccoli dish combines ease of preparation with mouthwatering flavors that will impress anyone at your table.
- The colorful presentation makes it look gourmet, yet it comes together in just 20 minutes!
- Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on what’s available in your kitchen.
- This versatile meal works great over rice or pasta for a complete feast!
Ingredients for garlic butter shrimp and broccoli
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Shrimp: Use large, fresh shrimp for the best texture; frozen shrimp can work too if thawed properly.
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add vibrant color and crunch; frozen can work as a quick alternative.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides intense flavor; feel free to increase or decrease according to your taste.
- Butter: Unsalted butter is recommended for better control over the dish’s saltiness; it creates a rich sauce.
- Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavors; bottled lemon juice works in a pinch but fresh is always best.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a hint of heat; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make garlic butter shrimp and broccoli
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. If using fresh shrimp, ensure they are peeled and deveined. Chop your broccoli into bite-sized florets.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
In a large skillet over medium heat, add about an inch of water and bring it to a simmer. Add the broccoli and cover the skillet for about 3-4 minutes until the broccoli turns bright green and is slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Shrimp
In the same skillet, melt half of the butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, toss in the minced garlic followed by the shrimp. Cook until they turn pink and opaque, which should take around 2-3 minutes per side.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Add the steamed broccoli back into the skillet with the shrimp. Pour in the remaining butter along with lemon juice and red pepper flakes. Stir everything together until well coated.
Step 5: Serve
Once everything is heated through (about another minute), remove from heat. Serve immediately over white rice or pasta for an extra touch.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch!
Enjoy this garlic butter shrimp and broccoli dish that embodies both simplicity and sophistication! Happy cooking!
You Must Know
- This garlic butter shrimp and broccoli dish is not just a meal; it’s a culinary hug.
- Quick to prepare, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.
- The savory aroma fills your kitchen, making you feel like a gourmet chef without all the fuss.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve perfection, start by sautéing the shrimp in garlic butter until they turn golden brown. While that’s happening, blanch the broccoli to keep its vibrant color and crunch. Toss them together at the end for maximum flavor fusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out shrimp for chicken or tofu if seafood isn’t your thing! You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or sprinkle with lemon zest for a refreshing twist. Comforting chicken leek pie.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover garlic butter shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid rubbery shrimp.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use fresh shrimp for the best flavor; frozen ones can be convenient but may lose some texture.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking; this ensures even cooking and browning.
- Lastly, remember to taste as you go; seasoning can transform your dish from good to amazing!
It reminds me of the first time I made garlic butter shrimp and broccoli for my family. The delighted expressions on their faces were priceless, and I knew I had struck culinary gold!
FAQs :
What is garlic butter shrimp and broccoli?
Garlic butter shrimp and broccoli is a delightful dish that combines succulent shrimp with tender broccoli, all sautéed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The flavors meld beautifully, creating a savory experience that is both satisfying and healthy. This dish is often served over rice or pasta, making it a versatile option for lunch or dinner. The combination of protein from the shrimp and fiber from the broccoli makes it a nutritious choice for any meal.
How do I make garlic butter shrimp and broccoli?
To make garlic butter shrimp and broccoli, start by sautéing minced garlic in melted butter until fragrant. Add peeled and deveined shrimp to the pan, cooking until they turn pink. Toss in fresh broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for added flavor. Serve immediately over your choice of rice or pasta for a complete meal. For more inspiration, check out this creamy lemon shrimp pasta recipe.
Can I substitute the shrimp in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the shrimp in garlic butter shrimp and broccoli with other proteins such as chicken, scallops, or tofu. Each alternative will provide different flavors and textures but will still work well with the garlic butter sauce. Adjust cooking times accordingly; for instance, chicken may require longer to cook through compared to shrimp.
Is garlic butter shrimp and broccoli healthy?
Garlic butter shrimp and broccoli is a healthy option due to its low-calorie ingredients packed with nutrients. Shrimp provides high-quality protein while being low in fat. Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals essential for overall health. By controlling the amount of butter used, you can enjoy this dish without excessive calories, making it a great choice for health-conscious eaters.
Conclusion for garlic butter shrimp and broccoli :
garlic shrimp recipe offers versatility as you can serve it over various bases like rice or pasta. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or something special for guests, this dish delivers on taste while keeping things simple. Enjoy this delightful combination of flavors that brings nutrition to your table!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Garlic butter shrimp and broccoli is a quick, delectable dish that brings together succulent shrimp and tender broccoli, all enveloped in a rich garlic butter sauce. In just 20 minutes, you can create a flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests. Serve it over rice or pasta to enjoy a satisfying feast bursting with color and taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients: peel and devein the shrimp, and chop the broccoli into bite-sized pieces.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add an inch of water and bring to a simmer. Add the broccoli, cover for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt half the butter over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic, then shrimp. Cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Combine steamed broccoli with the shrimp in the skillet. Add remaining butter, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well-coated and heated through.
- Serve immediately over rice or pasta, drizzling with sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 220mg






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