Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli has become a staple in our household, and honestly, for good reason. It’s one of those dishes that comes together in a flash, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something delicious and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. Even my pickiest eater, my youngest, devours the shrimp, and getting them to eat broccoli is usually a victory in itself! The buttery, garlicky sauce is just irresistible, coating every bite of succulent shrimp and tender-crisp broccoli. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite wholesome, making it a winner in my book. We’ve made it countless times, tweaking it here and there, and this version, I believe, is truly the best. If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing meal, you absolutely have to try this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli recipe. Prepare to be amazed at how something so simple can taste so incredibly good!

Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

• Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined. Use large or jumbo shrimp for best results as they are meatier and hold up well to cooking. Fresh or frozen (thawed) shrimp will work.
• Broccoli Florets: 1 large head (about 4 cups), cut into bite-sized florets. Fresh broccoli is preferred for its texture and flavor, but frozen broccoli florets can be used in a pinch, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry to avoid excess water.
• Butter: ½ cup (1 stick), unsalted. Butter is the base of our flavorful sauce, providing richness and that classic buttery taste. Unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Garlic: 6 cloves, minced. Fresh garlic is crucial for that pungent, aromatic garlic butter flavor. Mincing it finely releases its oils and flavors beautifully into the butter.
• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, fresh. Lemon juice adds a bright, acidic counterpoint to the richness of the butter and garlic, balancing the flavors and enhancing the overall taste. Freshly squeezed is always best for maximum flavor.
• White Wine (Optional): ¼ cup, dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc). White wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with chicken broth or extra lemon juice.
• Red Pepper Flakes: ½ teaspoon (or more to taste), optional. Red pepper flakes provide a subtle kick of heat that complements the garlic and butter without overpowering the dish. Adjust to your spice preference.
• Fresh Parsley: ¼ cup, chopped, for garnish. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish. It brightens the flavors and makes it visually appealing.
• Salt: To taste. Salt is essential for seasoning and enhancing the flavors of all the ingredients.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste. Freshly ground black pepper adds a pungent, aromatic spice and complements the other flavors.

Instructions for Making Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

1. Prepare the Broccoli: Start by washing your broccoli florets thoroughly. If using fresh broccoli, cut the head into bite-sized florets, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size for even cooking. If using frozen broccoli, make sure it is completely thawed and pat it dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This will help the broccoli to roast or sauté properly instead of steaming.
2. Melt the Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet or a large, oven-safe skillet (cast iron works wonderfully) over medium heat, melt the butter completely. Once the butter is melted and slightly shimmering, add the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic will taste bitter. The aroma of sautéing garlic is a key indicator that it’s ready.
3. Add White Wine (Optional) and Red Pepper Flakes: If using white wine, pour it into the skillet with the garlic and butter. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the alcohol to cook off and the wine to reduce slightly, concentrating its flavor. If you are using red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, add them now along with the wine or directly after the garlic if skipping the wine. Stir to distribute the red pepper flakes evenly.
4. Add Broccoli and Season: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to coat the broccoli with the garlic butter sauce. Ensure the broccoli is somewhat evenly spread in the pan for even cooking.
5. Cook the Broccoli: There are two main methods to cook the broccoli at this stage, depending on your preference for texture and equipment:
   • Sauté Method (Skillet Only): If you prefer to cook entirely on the stovetop, cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The steam trapped under the lid will help the broccoli to soften. You want it tender but still with a slight bite.
   • Oven-Roasting Method (Oven-Safe Skillet Recommended): For a slightly roasted flavor and more even cooking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). After sautéing the broccoli in the skillet, transfer the entire skillet to the preheated oven (if using a non-oven safe skillet, transfer broccoli to a baking sheet). Roast for 10-15 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender-crisp and slightly browned at the edges. Roasting brings out a slightly sweeter, nutty flavor in the broccoli.
6. Add Shrimp and Lemon Juice: Once the broccoli is cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the skillet from the oven (if roasted) or uncover it if sautéed on the stovetop. Add the peeled and deveined shrimp to the skillet, nestling them amongst the broccoli. Pour in the fresh lemon juice.
7. Cook the Shrimp: Increase the heat slightly to medium-high if cooking on the stovetop. Cook the shrimp for about 2-4 minutes per side, depending on their size, until they turn pink and opaque and are cooked through. Do not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. They are done when they are no longer translucent and have a firm, slightly curled texture. If oven-roasting, return the skillet to the oven for another 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
8. Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat (or oven). Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot. The vibrant parsley adds freshness and visual appeal.

Nutrition Facts for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

(Per serving, based on 4 servings – approximate values and can vary based on ingredient quantities and specific brands)

• Serving Size: Approximately 1.5 cups
• Calories: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving. This is a moderate calorie dish, making it suitable for a balanced meal.
• Protein: Approximately 30-35 grams per serving. Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, crucial for muscle building and satiety.
• Fat: Approximately 20-25 grams per serving. This includes healthy fats from butter and omega-3 fatty acids from shrimp. While butter is used, the portion per serving is moderate.
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15 grams per serving. Primarily from the broccoli, these are complex carbohydrates and fiber.
• Fiber: Approximately 5-7 grams per serving. Broccoli is a good source of dietary fiber, beneficial for digestion and promoting fullness.

Please note: These are estimates and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use.

Preparation Time for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

• Prep Time: 15 minutes. This includes washing and chopping the broccoli, mincing the garlic, peeling and deveining the shrimp, and gathering all ingredients. The dish is designed for quick preparation.
• Cook Time: 20 minutes. This includes sautéing the garlic, cooking the broccoli (whether sautéed or roasted), and cooking the shrimp. The total cooking time is relatively short, making it ideal for weeknight meals.
• Total Time: 35 minutes. From start to finish, this recipe is ready in about half an hour, perfect for a fast and flavorful meal.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

This versatile dish can be served in numerous delicious ways. Here are some ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Over Rice:
  • White Rice: Classic and simple, white rice provides a neutral base to soak up the flavorful garlic butter sauce.
  • Brown Rice: For a healthier and nuttier option, brown rice adds more fiber and texture.
  • Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb and keto-friendly option, cauliflower rice is a fantastic choice.
  • Quinoa: A protein-rich and gluten-free grain that pairs well with the shrimp and broccoli.
• With Pasta:
  • Linguine or Fettuccine: Long pasta strands are excellent for clinging to the garlic butter sauce and shrimp.
  • Penne or Rotini: Short pasta shapes also work well, capturing the sauce and broccoli florets.
  • Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): For a low-carb and gluten-free alternative, zucchini noodles are a light and healthy option.
• As a Side Dish:
  • Alongside Grilled Chicken or Fish: Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli makes a wonderful side to complement other protein dishes.
  • With Steak: The rich flavors pair beautifully with a juicy steak for a more indulgent meal.
  • Part of a Seafood Feast: Include it as part of a larger seafood platter with other grilled or baked seafood options.
• In a Bowl, as is:
  • For a lighter meal: Enjoy it on its own as a satisfying and flavorful low-carb meal.
  • With a side of crusty bread: Serve with crusty bread for dipping into the delicious garlic butter sauce.
• In Wraps or Tacos:
  • Shrimp and Broccoli Tacos: Spoon the mixture into warm tortillas for a fun and flavorful taco night.
  • Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, use large lettuce leaves as wraps to hold the shrimp and broccoli.

Additional Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

1. Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When cooking the shrimp and broccoli, avoid overcrowding the skillet. Overcrowding will steam the ingredients instead of sautéing or roasting them, preventing them from browning properly and achieving that desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
2. Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients: The simplicity of this recipe means the quality of ingredients really shines through. Use fresh broccoli, plump shrimp, and good quality butter for the best flavor. Fresh garlic is also essential for that pungent, aromatic garlic butter taste.
3. Adjust Garlic to Your Preference: Six cloves of garlic provide a strong garlic flavor. If you prefer a milder garlic taste, start with 3-4 cloves and adjust to your liking. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
4. Control the Heat: Pay close attention to the heat while sautéing the garlic and cooking the shrimp. Medium heat is usually ideal for sautéing the garlic to prevent burning. Medium-high heat is good for cooking the shrimp quickly without overcooking them.
5. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly. Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery and tough. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque and are slightly firm to the touch. They should be cooked through but still tender.
6. Customize with Spices and Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other spices and herbs to customize the flavor profile. Consider adding a pinch of paprika, oregano, thyme, or even a dash of Cajun seasoning for a different twist.
7. Add a Touch of Cheese (Optional): For an even richer dish, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan cheese over the shrimp and broccoli just before serving. The cheese will melt into the sauce and add a salty, savory dimension.
8. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy spicy food, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat. You can also add a drizzle of sriracha or hot sauce at the end for serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Q1: Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
A: Yes, you can use frozen broccoli florets. Make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels before cooking. This will remove excess moisture and help them sauté or roast better instead of becoming soggy.

Q2: What if I don’t have white wine? Can I still make this recipe?
A: Absolutely! White wine adds depth, but it’s optional. You can easily substitute it with chicken broth for a similar savory note, or simply use an extra tablespoon or two of lemon juice to maintain the acidity and brightness in the sauce.

Q3: How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?
A: Shrimp cooks very quickly. It’s done when it turns from translucent gray to opaque pink or white and is slightly firm to the touch. Avoid overcooking, as it can become rubbery. It usually takes just 2-4 minutes per side, depending on the size of the shrimp.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: It’s best to enjoy Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli fresh, as shrimp can become rubbery and broccoli can lose its crispness when reheated. However, you can prep the ingredients ahead of time. Chop the broccoli, mince the garlic, and have the shrimp ready. Then, cooking will be quick when you’re ready to eat.

Q5: Is this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, the base recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli is naturally gluten-free. Just be mindful of what you serve it with if you need to maintain a gluten-free diet. Serve it over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.

Q6: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Definitely! You can easily add other vegetables like bell peppers, asparagus, snap peas, or mushrooms. Adjust the cooking time accordingly depending on the vegetables you choose. Heartier vegetables like bell peppers can be added with the broccoli, while more delicate ones like snap peas should be added later.

Q7: How do I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Keep in mind that the texture of the shrimp and broccoli might change slightly upon reheating.

Q8: What’s the best way to reheat Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli?
A: The best way to reheat is gently in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp and make it rubbery. Reheating in the oven at a low temperature (around 250°F/120°C) is another option, especially if you want to try to retain some crispness in the broccoli.

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