Sizzling Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Sizzling garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet promises a quick weeknight dinner miracle.

Tender seafood dancing with crisp green florets in a golden pan.

butter melts into a silky sauce that coats each succulent morsel perfectly.

Fragrant garlic whispers depth through every delectable bite of this simple meal.

Protein and vegetables combine effortlessly, creating a balanced plate you’ll devour in minutes.

Rich flavors emerge from just a few fresh ingredients and minimal cooking time.

Mouthwatering aromas will fill your kitchen, tempting everyone to gather around the table.

Let’s transform basic ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that satisfies and delights.

Fun Variations On Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Spicy Coconut Kick: Replace butter with coconut oil and add Thai red curry paste for a tropical, zesty flavor profile that transforms the classic recipe into an Asian-inspired meal.
• Mediterranean Herb Splash: Swap smoked paprika with dried oregano and thyme, then finish with crumbled feta cheese and chopped kalamata olives for a Greek-style seafood experience.
• Cajun Seafood Fusion: Season shrimp with Cajun spice blend instead of salt and pepper, add diced bell peppers, and sprinkle with green onions for a New Orleans-inspired skillet that brings bold, southern heat.
• Creamy Parmesan Version: Stir in heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese after cooking shrimp to create a rich, velvety sauce that coats the seafood and broccoli with luxurious, cheesy goodness.

Common Questions About Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Why should I pat the shrimp dry before cooking?

Patting shrimp dry helps achieve a perfect golden-brown sear by removing excess moisture, which prevents steaming and ensures a crispy exterior that locks in delicious flavor.

• Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?

While fresh broccoli is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli. Just thaw and pat it dry first to prevent excess water from making your dish soggy. Fresh broccoli will give you the crispest results.

• How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque, typically taking about 2 minutes per side. They should form a loose “C” shape. If they curl into a tight “O” shape, they’re overcooked and might become rubbery.

• Is smoked paprika necessary for this recipe?

Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth of flavor, but if you don’t have it, regular paprika works fine. For a slight twist, you can also use cayenne pepper or chili powder for a bit of heat.

Why Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe Is So Good

• Savor Quick and Flavorful Fusion: This skillet recipe combines succulent shrimp and crisp broccoli with a mouthwatering garlic butter sauce, delivering restaurant-quality taste in just 15 minutes.
• Master Easy One-Pan Cooking: Minimal dishes and simple steps make this recipe perfect for busy home cooks who want delicious meals without complicated techniques or extensive cleanup.
• Enjoy Protein-Packed Healthy Meal: Lean shrimp and nutritious broccoli create a balanced dish that's low-carb, high in protein, and packed with incredible flavor from simple seasonings like smoked paprika and red pepper flakes.
• Customize Your Culinary Creation: Flexible recipe allows easy modifications like adding rice, pasta, or switching proteins, making it adaptable for different dietary preferences and meal styles.

Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe Ingredient List

• Shrimp: Sweet and succulent seafood that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. Choose fresh or frozen medium-sized shrimp for best results.
• Salt, Pepper, Smoked Paprika: Classic seasoning blend that enhances shrimp's natural taste and adds depth of flavor.

• Broccoli Florets: Crisp green vegetable with nutritious profile. Look for fresh, bright green florets without yellow spots.

• Garlic, Red Pepper Flakes: Aromatic ingredients that create a bold, spicy undertone. Fresh garlic provides more intense flavor than pre-minced.
• Olive Oil, Butter: Rich cooking fats that provide smooth texture and rich taste. Use unsalted butter for better control of saltiness.
• Lemon: Bright citrus that adds freshness and cuts through rich butter sauce. Fresh lemon juice is preferable to bottled.

• Fresh Parsley: Green herb that adds color and light herbal note to finished dish. Choose bright green, crisp leaves.

Steps To Make Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Spice Up the Shrimp

Grab your shrimp and give them a flavor boost! Carefully dry the shrimp with a paper towel. Sprinkle generously with salt, pepper, and a dash of smoky paprika to wake up those taste buds.

Step 2: Roast the Broccoli

Fire up a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Toss in broccoli florets and a pinch of salt. Let them dance and sizzle, stirring occasionally until they’re crisp-tender and vibrant green. Once they’re perfectly cooked, scoop them out and set aside on a plate.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In the same magical skillet, add more olive oil and a pat of butter. Carefully place the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Watch them transform from gray to a beautiful pink in just two minutes per side. They’re done when they look opaque and plump. Gently transfer the shrimp to the plate with broccoli.

Step 4: Create Magical Garlic Butter Sauce

Turn the heat down to medium-low and melt another chunk of butter. Sprinkle in minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. Let the aromatics sizzle and fill your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance for about a minute.

Step 5: Bring Everything Together

Return the shrimp and broccoli to the skillet. Gently toss everything in the golden, garlicky butter sauce. Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a bright, zesty finish. Give it a gentle stir to ensure every bite is coated in flavor.

Step 6: Serve and Devour

Plate up this mouthwatering skillet immediately! Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra freshness. Serve piping hot and watch everyone’s eyes light up with excitement. Pair with rice, pasta, or enjoy it all on its own.

Helpful Advice For Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Dry Shrimp Perfectly: Pat shrimp completely dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden exterior that locks in flavor and prevents steaming.
• Broccoli Crunch Control: Sauté broccoli just until crisp-tender to maintain its vibrant green color and preserve nutritional value while adding a delightful texture.
• Garlic Timing Matters: Add minced garlic at the end of cooking to prevent burning and preserve its delicate, aromatic flavor that enhances the entire dish.
• Lemon Brightness Boost: Squeeze fresh lemon juice at the final moment to add a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness of the garlic butter sauce.
• Quick Protein Swap: Easily replace shrimp with chicken or tofu for a versatile meal that adapts to different dietary preferences and protein needs.

Storing And Reheating Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Refrigerate: Transfer cooled shrimp and broccoli to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
• Cool Down: Allow the dish to reach room temperature before storing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Reheat Gently: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of olive oil, stirring occasionally to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.
• Avoid Microwave: Microwaving can make shrimp rubbery and tough, so stovetop reheating is best for preserving flavor and tenderness.

Sides That Match Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: A chilled sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio complements the buttery shrimp and cuts through the rich garlic sauce, creating a perfect balance of flavors.
• Serve with Crusty Bread: Warm, rustic sourdough or French baguette helps soak up the delicious garlic butter sauce, turning this skillet dish into a complete and satisfying meal.
• Match with Zesty Citrus Salad: A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette provides a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich and savory shrimp, adding brightness to the overall dining experience.
• Complement with Herbed Rice Pilaf: A light, fluffy rice pilaf with fresh herbs like parsley and chives offers a delicate base that enhances the garlic butter shrimp without overwhelming the delicate seafood flavors.

Garlic Butter Shrimp And Broccoli Skillet Recipe

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4.6 from 35 reviews

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet delivers a quick, restaurant-worthy meal packed with bold flavors and simple ingredients. Sizzling shrimp and crisp broccoli combine in a silky butter sauce that draws you into a delightful culinary experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins and Vegetables:

• 1 pound (1 lb) shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 cups broccoli florets

Fats and Oils:

• 3 tablespoons (3 tbsp) butter
• 2 tablespoons (2 tbsp) olive oil

Seasonings and Flavor Enhancers:

• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon (½ tsp) smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon (¼ tsp) red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) lemon juice (from ½ lemon)
• 1 tablespoon (1 tbsp) fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Carefully pat the shrimp dry using paper towels, then generously season with salt, cracked black pepper, and a sprinkle of smoky paprika for enhanced flavor complexity.
2. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, introducing broccoli florets with a delicate salt dusting. Gently sauté the verdant vegetable, rotating periodically, until achieving a vibrant green color with slight tenderness, approximately 4-5 minutes. Transfer the perfectly cooked broccoli to a separate plate.
3. Utilizing the same skillet, drizzle additional olive oil and melt a portion of butter, creating a golden cooking surface. Introduce seasoned shrimp, allowing them to dance across the pan for roughly 2 minutes per side until transforming into a beautiful pink hue and becoming translucent. Carefully extract the shrimp and reserve.
4. Reduce the skillet’s temperature to a gentle medium-low, melting the remaining butter. Incorporate finely minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes, releasing their aromatic essence for approximately 60 seconds.
5. Reunite the sautéed shrimp and broccoli within the fragrant skillet, gently coating each morsel with the luxurious garlic butter sauce. Brighten the dish with a fresh squeeze of zesty lemon juice, delicately stirring to harmonize the flavors.
6. Present the skillet immediately, adorned with freshly chopped parsley, ready to be savored alongside your preferred accompaniments.

Notes

• Maximize shrimp flavor by thoroughly patting them dry before seasoning, ensuring a perfect sear and preventing soggy texture.
• Adjust cooking time for broccoli based on preferred tenderness; crisp-tender means slightly crunchy with a vibrant green color.
• Use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for an intense, rich flavor profile that elevates the entire dish.
• Customize the recipe for different dietary needs by substituting shrimp with tofu or chicken, and using gluten-free alternatives if required.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 285
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 24 g
• Cholesterol: 220 mg