This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli dish is super easy to make and oh-so-tasty! The shrimp are juicy and the broccoli is bright and crisp, all smothered in rich, buttery garlic goodness.
Trust me, it’s a total crowd-pleaser! I love serving this dish over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Quick dinner and happy family? Yes, please! 🦐🥦
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are the star here. If you can’t find fresh shrimp, frozen shrimp work great too—just thaw them before cooking. For a twist, you could also use scallops or chicken.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add crunch and nutrition. If you prefer, feel free to swap in green beans or asparagus, which will also taste amazing with the garlic butter.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level better. If you’re looking for a healthier option, use olive oil or coconut oil instead to keep it light and dairy-free.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is important for that deep flavor. If garlic isn’t your thing, you could replace it with garlic powder, but it won’t be as vibrant and tasty.
Lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens the dish. If you’re out of lemons, a splash of vinegar can also add a nice tang!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Broccoli?
Sautéing broccoli until just tender is key to keeping it vibrant and tasty. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with a hot skillet and olive oil—this helps to get a good sear.
- Keep an eye on it while cooking for about 4-5 minutes—stir often to prevent burning.
- When it’s bright green and still has a crunch, remove it from the skillet. It will continue cooking with the residual heat.
This technique will ensure your broccoli is not only beautiful but also adds that perfect bite to your dish!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
For The Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli takes about 10-15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s a quick dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Broccoli:
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they turn bright green and remain tender-crisp. Once cooked, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Be sure to stir constantly to avoid burning—it should become fragrant and golden, not browned!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Add the shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Combine It All:
Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and fresh lemon juice. Gently toss everything together and let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to combine all the delicious flavors.
5. Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for a fresh touch. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side. This dish is fantastic over rice, pasta, or enjoyed on its own! Enjoy your meal!
FAQ for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this by leaving them in the refrigerator overnight or quickly submerging them in cold water in a sealed bag.
Can I Substitute the Broccoli With Another Vegetable?
Absolutely! While broccoli is delicious, you can substitute it with green beans, asparagus, or even snap peas. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the vegetable you choose.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help prevent drying out.
What Can I Serve This Dish With?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, pasta, or quinoa. For a low-carb option, enjoy it over cauliflower rice or with a side of crispy salad. It’s versatile and fits well into many meal ideas!
