This easy garlic butter shrimp and broccoli dish is a complete meal bursting with flavor! Juicy shrimp and tender broccoli are tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce that makes every bite special.
Honestly, who knew dinner could be this quick and tasty? I love to serve it over rice or pasta for a filling meal that feels fancy but is super simple to make. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: I recommend using large shrimp for a meaty bite, but medium or extra-large work well too. If you’re allergic or prefer not to use shrimp, you could substitute with chicken or tofu as they will soak up the garlic butter flavor nicely.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli is best for its crunch, but you can use frozen florets if you’re short on time. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking, so they heat through without becoming mushy. Other vegetables like snap peas or asparagus are also great options!
Butter: Unsalted butter adds a rich flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, substitute with olive oil or vegan butter. I like to use a blend for the best of both worlds!
Garlic: Fresh garlic is ideal, but garlic powder can be used in a pinch—just use about 1 teaspoon. If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more!
How Can I Cook the Shrimp to Perfection?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky since they cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Here’s a simple method for success:
- Heat your skillet over medium-high to ensure a good sear.
- Cook shrimp for only 2-3 minutes per side. They should turn pink and opaque when done.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; this can lower the temperature and lead to steaming instead of searing.
This technique ensures your shrimp remain juicy and flavorful! Pair it with the garlic butter and broccoli for a mouthwatering dish. Happy cooking!
How to Make Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Seasoning:
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of half a lemon
For Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Serving Suggestion:
- Cooked rice or pasta, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion when you’re short on time but looking for flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Broccoli:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the broccoli florets and sauté them for about 4-5 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. After cooking, take the broccoli out of the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
2. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Let it melt completely, then add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. Cook this mixture for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant but be careful not to burn it!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, it’s time to add the shrimp to the skillet. Season them with salt and black pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
4. Combine Everything:
After the shrimp is cooked, gently return the broccoli to the skillet. Toss the shrimp and broccoli together to ensure everything gets coated in the delicious garlic butter. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon over the top and stir to combine all the flavors.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately, either on its own or over a bed of cooked rice or pasta. Enjoy your delicious and easy garlic butter shrimp and broccoli!
FAQ about Easy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp in the refrigerator overnight or run them under cold water for a few minutes before cooking. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better searing.
What Vegetables Can I Substitute for Broccoli?
If you don’t have broccoli on hand, you can easily use other vegetables like snap peas, asparagus, or bell peppers. Just adjust the cooking time according to the vegetable’s firmness—Aim for tender-crisp texture!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat or in a microwave until heated through. You may want to add a dash of lemon juice or extra butter to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Dish Spicy?
Definitely! You can increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce during cooking for more heat. Adjust to your personal spice preference!