Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe That Boosts Flavor Recipe
This Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe delivers a perfect balance of protein and vegetables with a burst of garlicky, buttery flavor. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a quick and nutritious meal ideal for busy weeknights or a light, satisfying dinner. Succulent shrimp are sautéed with fresh broccoli florets in a fragrant mixture of garlic, butter, and lemon juice, finished with a hint of red pepper flakes and fresh parsley.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Ingredients
Scale
Shrimp and Broccoli
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups fresh broccoli florets, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the shrimp thoroughly and pat them dry with paper towels. Trim the broccoli and cut into bite-size florets to ensure even cooking.
- Heat Butter: Warm a large skillet over medium heat and add the unsalted butter. Allow it to melt completely, bubbling and foaming for about 1 minute to release its nutty flavor.
- Sauté Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden, making sure it does not burn to avoid bitterness.
- Cook Shrimp: Arrange the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until shrimp are opaque pink and have a slight browning for enhanced flavor.
- Add Broccoli and Steam: Toss the broccoli florets into the skillet, stirring to coat them well in the garlic butter. Cover the pan and let the broccoli steam for 3 to 4 minutes until it turns bright green and is tender yet crisp.
- Finish Sauce: Pour in the lemon juice, scraping any flavorful browned bits from the pan. Stir gently to combine and let the sauce simmer for 1 additional minute to meld the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish for color and freshness. Serve immediately on its own for a low-carb meal or over rice if preferred.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the red pepper flakes to 1½ teaspoons.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best flavor; bottled lemon juice can alter the taste.
- To keep the broccoli extra crisp, do not oversteam it – 3 to 4 minutes is ideal.
- Serve with rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a more filling meal.
- Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, broccoli shrimp recipe, easy shrimp dinner, quick shrimp recipe, healthy shrimp with vegetables, low-carb shrimp dish
