Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

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I’ve always loved meals that come together in under 30 minutes but taste like they took hours. This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is exactly that kind of dish. The tender shrimp soak up the rich, savory garlic butter, while the broccoli adds that perfect contrast in texture and a slightly bitter bite to balance the richness. It’s one of those recipes I keep returning to because it never disappoints—and it disappears just as quickly as it’s served.

What makes it so addictive? I think it’s the combination of clean, fresh ingredients with bold seasoning that brings out the natural sweetness of shrimp. Add in the golden butter, fresh herbs, and a splash of citrus, and you’ve got a vibrant skillet dinner that feels as good as it tastes. Whether I’m cooking for myself or a crowd, this recipe is always a hit.

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Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

• Quick to make – Ready in just 20 minutes.
• One-pan simplicity – Fewer dishes, more flavor.
• Low carb and keto-friendly – Perfect for lighter meals.
• Full of protein and fiber – Shrimp and broccoli make a nutritious combo.
• Perfect for meal prep – Reheats well without losing texture.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, I usually go with medium to large shrimp, peeled and deveined, with tails on or off depending on your preference. Fresh shrimp gives the best flavor, but frozen shrimp works perfectly too—just make sure they’re fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. I personally love the added flavor of shrimp with the shell on, but for a cleaner eating experience, tail-off is often the easier choice, especially if you’re serving this to guests or kids.

You can use wild-caught or farm-raised shrimp, but I tend to prefer wild-caught for its firmer texture and more intense flavor. Whatever kind you choose, make sure the shrimp are not overcooked—they only need a couple of minutes per side to turn pink and juicy.

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Options for Substitutions

If you’re missing a few ingredients or just want to switch things up, this recipe is super flexible:

• Vegetables: No broccoli? Try asparagus, green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers for different textures and flavors.
• Butter alternatives: Use ghee for a paleo-friendly version, or olive oil if you want something dairy-free.
• Shrimp swap: Scallops, chicken breast slices, or even tofu can be great substitutes.
• Garlic variation: Roasted garlic or garlic powder can work in a pinch, though nothing beats fresh minced garlic.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a splash of hot sauce for a little kick.

This dish is easy to adapt based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

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Ingredients for This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a specific role in making the dish flavorful, balanced, and satisfying:

• Shrimp – The star of the dish. Choose medium or large shrimp for a meaty bite and tender texture that holds up well to searing.
• Broccoli florets – Adds crunch, color, and a dose of fiber. It contrasts beautifully with the tender shrimp.
• Butter – Creates that rich, velvety base for the garlic sauce. It coats the shrimp and broccoli in irresistible flavor.
• Garlic (minced) – Brings the bold, savory aroma that defines the dish. Fresh garlic is essential here.
• Olive oil – Helps the butter cook without burning and adds its own depth of flavor.
• Lemon juice – Brightens everything up and cuts through the richness of the butter.
• Salt and pepper – Essential seasoning to bring out the best in the shrimp and broccoli.
• Parsley (optional, chopped) – Adds a burst of freshness and color at the end.

Simple ingredients, but each one is doing heavy lifting to deliver a flavor-packed, wholesome meal.

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Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by thawing the shrimp if frozen. Peel and devein them, then pat them dry with paper towels. Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets, mince the garlic, and chop the parsley if using. Having everything ready before cooking helps things move smoothly, especially since this dish comes together fast.

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Step 2: Cook the Broccoli

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 4–5 minutes until they’re vibrant green and slightly tender. You want them cooked but still crisp. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn. Then add the shrimp in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper and sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook them.

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Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the broccoli to the pan and gently stir to coat it in the garlic butter. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and toss everything together for a final minute over low heat to let the flavors meld.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot—either on its own, over rice, or next to your favorite side.

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How Long to Cook the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

This dish is all about speed without sacrificing flavor. Here’s the general timing you’ll follow:

• Broccoli: 4–5 minutes in the skillet until it’s bright green and tender-crisp.
• Shrimp: About 2 minutes per side, depending on their size. You’ll know they’re done when they turn pink and curl slightly.
• Finishing time: 1 additional minute to bring everything together in the skillet.

From start to finish, expect this recipe to take about 15 to 20 minutes total.

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Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

• Dry the shrimp well before cooking to get a better sear and prevent them from steaming.
• Use a large enough skillet so the shrimp cook in a single layer—this avoids crowding and uneven cooking.
• Don’t overcook the garlic. It should be fragrant, not browned, or it’ll turn bitter.
• Add lemon juice last to preserve its fresh, bright flavor.
• Taste before serving. A final pinch of salt or an extra squeeze of lemon can make all the difference.
• Serve immediately for best texture—shrimp can get rubbery if left sitting too long.

These little details ensure the dish turns out delicious every single time.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a quick and easy dish like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli can go sideways if you’re not careful. Here are the common pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the shrimp – This is the number one mistake. Shrimp cook quickly, and going even a minute too long can make them tough and rubbery.
• Crowding the skillet – Overcrowding traps steam and leads to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if needed.
• Skipping the prep – Because the dish comes together so fast, having everything chopped and ready is crucial.
• Burning the garlic – Once it goes too far, it becomes bitter. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly when the garlic is in the pan.
• Using wet shrimp or broccoli – Excess moisture can water down the sauce and make the dish soggy.
• Adding lemon too early – Heat dulls its flavor, so save it for the end.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?

This dish is versatile and pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Here are some of my favorite serving suggestions:

Steamed Jasmine Rice

The mild, floral aroma of jasmine rice soaks up the garlic butter sauce perfectly.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

A rich, creamy side that complements the buttery shrimp with extra comfort.

Cauliflower Rice

For a low-carb option, this keeps things light while still soaking in the flavors.

Crusty Bread

A slice of warm, rustic bread is perfect for wiping up the garlicky sauce.

Lemon Orzo

Bright and zesty orzo pasta makes a great citrusy contrast to the richness of the dish.

Simple Mixed Greens Salad

A fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings balance and crunch.

Roasted Sweet Potatoes

Their natural sweetness pairs surprisingly well with garlicky shrimp.

Quinoa

Nutty and protein-rich, quinoa makes this a wholesome, complete meal.

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Storage Instructions

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli stores well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture of the shrimp and broccoli. Add a splash of water or a dab of butter if it seems dry. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can overcook the shrimp.
• Freezing: Not recommended. Shrimp can turn rubbery and broccoli may become mushy after freezing and thawing.

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Estimated Nutrition

Keep in mind that nutrition may vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 280–320 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 8–10g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 550–650mg

This recipe is naturally low-carb and high-protein, making it ideal for balanced eating or low-carb meal plans.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What size shrimp works best for this recipe?

Medium to large shrimp (like 21/25 or 26/30 count per pound) work best—they cook quickly but still have a satisfying bite. Smaller shrimp may overcook more easily.

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Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but it’s best to thaw and pat it dry first. Frozen broccoli can release a lot of moisture which may water down your garlic butter sauce.

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Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like a little heat.

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Can I make this dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative or use extra virgin olive oil. The dish will still be flavorful, just a bit less rich.

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How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Don’t walk away! Shrimp only take 1–2 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, pull them off the heat.

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Is this suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Just store it in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. It reheats well on the stovetop, making it a great work lunch.

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Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely. Bell peppers, snap peas, mushrooms, or zucchini would all be great additions. Just cook them to the right tenderness before adding shrimp.

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What kind of pan should I use?

A large non-stick skillet or stainless steel pan works well. Cast iron is another great option—it gives the shrimp a nice sear if preheated properly.

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Conclusion

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is one of those weeknight heroes I keep coming back to—it’s quick, it’s packed with flavor, and it’s endlessly flexible. Whether you serve it over rice, next to roasted veggies, or enjoy it straight from the skillet, it always feels like something special. Once you try it, I think it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too.

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