Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is a quick, healthy, and restaurant-quality meal that combines juicy shrimp, tender-crisp broccoli, rich butter, and aromatic garlic in one delicious skillet. This low-carb, high-protein recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or anyone following a keto-friendly lifestyle. The buttery garlic sauce coats every bite, creating a comforting dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
This recipe is popular because it uses simple ingredients while delivering incredible flavor. Serve it over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, pasta, quinoa, or enjoy it on its own for a nutritious meal. It’s an excellent choice for those searching for healthy dinner recipes, easy seafood recipes, keto shrimp meals, or quick family dinners.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Servings
4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli
Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add broccoli florets and cook for about 4–5 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Cook shrimp for about 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet.
Step 4: Make Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet and add minced garlic. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant without burning.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return broccoli and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything in the garlic butter sauce. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, parsley, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir for another minute.
Step 6: Serve
Serve immediately with rice, pasta, mashed potatoes, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 540mg
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh shrimp whenever possible for the best flavor.
- Avoid overcooking shrimp because they become rubbery.
- Steam broccoli slightly before sautéing if you prefer softer vegetables.
- Fresh garlic creates a richer flavor than garlic powder.
- Finish with fresh lemon juice to brighten the buttery sauce.
Recipe Variations
Keto Garlic Butter Shrimp
Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb dinner.
Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Add ½ cup heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to create a creamy garlic sauce.
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp
Increase red pepper flakes or add Cajun seasoning.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Toss the finished shrimp and broccoli with cooked linguine or fettuccine.
Asian Garlic Butter Shrimp
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and sesame seeds for an Asian-inspired version.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freeze cooked shrimp and broccoli for up to 2 months.
Reheat gently over medium heat with a small splash of water or butter.
Best Side Dishes
- Garlic bread
- Buttered rice
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Cauliflower rice
- Mashed potatoes
- Roasted vegetables
- Garden salad
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in under 30 minutes
- High-protein dinner
- Low-carb and keto-friendly
- Family-friendly meal
- One-pan recipe
- Budget-friendly ingredients
- Rich garlic butter flavor
- Perfect for meal prep
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Absolutely. Frozen broccoli works well, although fresh broccoli provides a firmer texture.
How do I know when shrimp are fully cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink, opaque, and curl into a loose “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Replace butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative.
What pasta works best?
Linguine, spaghetti, fettuccine, or angel hair pair perfectly with the garlic butter sauce.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes. Bell peppers, mushrooms, asparagus, zucchini, spinach, and green beans all work well.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes. Store individual portions in airtight containers for convenient lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What seasonings pair well with shrimp?
Paprika, Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, Old Bay seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, parsley, thyme, and oregano are excellent choices.
Can I cook this in an air fryer?
You can air fry the shrimp separately at 400°F (200°C) for 6–8 minutes and roast the broccoli before tossing everything with the garlic butter sauce.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
Add a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese or stir in a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water if you’re not following a low-carb diet.
