Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli: Quick, Easy & Delicious Recipe

Garlic butter shrimp broccoli: prepare to meet your new weeknight dinner obsession! Imagine succulent shrimp, perfectly crisp-tender broccoli florets, all bathed in a luscious, garlicky, buttery sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a flavor explosion that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

While the exact origins of combining shrimp, broccoli, and garlic butter are somewhat modern and likely a delicious fusion born from the American palate’s love for Italian-American cuisine, the individual components have rich histories. Shrimp, a seafood staple enjoyed globally for centuries, pairs beautifully with broccoli, a vegetable popularized in Italy and later embraced worldwide for its nutritional benefits. Garlic butter, a simple yet elegant sauce, has been a cornerstone of culinary traditions for ages, adding depth and richness to countless dishes.

What makes garlic butter shrimp broccoli so irresistible? It’s the symphony of textures – the snap of the broccoli, the juicy tenderness of the shrimp, and the smooth, coating sauce. The garlicky, buttery flavor is undeniably addictive, and the dish is incredibly versatile. Serve it over pasta, rice, quinoa, or enjoy it as a light and satisfying meal on its own. Plus, its quick preparation time makes it a lifesaver on busy evenings. I know you’ll love how easy it is to create this restaurant-quality meal in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, but highly recommended!)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
• For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• For the Broccoli:
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for serving
• Optional Additions:
• Cooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine work well)
• Cooked rice (white or brown)
• Crusty bread for dipping

Preparing the Broccoli:

1. Wash and Cut the Broccoli: Start by thoroughly washing the broccoli head under cold water. Then, using a sharp knife, cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Make sure the florets are relatively uniform in size so they cook evenly. Don’t discard the stalk! You can peel the tough outer layer and chop the tender inside into small pieces to add to the florets.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 minced cloves of garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter.
3. Add the Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Broccoli: Cook the broccoli, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s tender-crisp. You want the broccoli to be bright green and slightly softened, but still have a bit of a bite to it. If the broccoli starts to stick to the pan, add a tablespoon or two of water and cover the skillet for a minute or two to steam it.
5. Keep Warm: Once the broccoli is cooked to your liking, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm. You can cover it with foil to prevent it from cooling down too much.

Preparing the Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Shrimp: Ensure your shrimp are peeled and deveined. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them brown nicely when cooked.
2. Season the Shrimp: In a bowl, toss the shrimp with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 4 minced cloves of garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure the shrimp are evenly coated with the seasonings.

Cooking the Shrimp and Making the Garlic Butter Sauce:

1. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet you used for the broccoli (or a clean skillet), melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté More Garlic: Add 6 minced cloves of garlic to the melted butter and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until fragrant. Again, be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Add the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
4. Deglaze with Wine (Optional): If using white wine, pour 1/4 cup of dry white wine into the skillet. Let it simmer for a minute or two, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This adds a lot of flavor to the sauce.
5. Add Chicken Broth and Lemon Juice: Pour in 1/4 cup of chicken broth and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Stir in the dried oregano and dried thyme (if using).
6. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Finish the Shrimp: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley.

Assembling and Serving:

1. Combine Everything: Add the cooked broccoli to the skillet with the shrimp and garlic butter sauce. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the broccoli is coated in the delicious sauce.
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the garlic butter shrimp and broccoli immediately. You can serve it over cooked pasta (linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine are great choices), cooked rice (white or brown), or with crusty bread for dipping.
3. Garnish (Optional): If desired, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and extra chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for Success:

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Overcooked shrimp are tough and rubbery. Cook them just until they turn pink and opaque.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Fresh garlic provides the best flavor for this dish. Avoid using garlic powder or pre-minced garlic if possible.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it spicy, add more!
• Make it a Complete Meal: Serve with pasta, rice, or crusty bread to make it a more substantial meal.
• Prep Ahead: You can chop the broccoli and mince the garlic ahead of time to save time when you’re ready to cook.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well with this dish.

Variations:

• Add Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
• Make it Creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a creamier sauce.
• Use Different Herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, rosemary, or chives.
• Add Cheese: Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese, or feta cheese.
• Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover garlic butter shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.

Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):

• Calories: 350-450
• Protein: 30-40g
• Fat: 20-30g
• Carbohydrates: 10-20g (depending on whether served with pasta or rice)

This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal. The combination of succulent shrimp, tender-crisp broccoli, and a rich garlic butter sauce is simply irresistible. I hope you enjoy making and eating this dish as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli recipe isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The succulent shrimp, perfectly cooked broccoli, and that rich, garlicky butter sauce – it’s a combination that’s simply irresistible. I truly believe this dish deserves a spot in your regular rotation. It’s quick, easy, and satisfying, ticking all the boxes for a busy weeknight meal. But don’t let the simplicity fool you; the depth of flavor is truly remarkable. What makes this recipe a must-try? It’s the perfect balance of textures and tastes. The tender shrimp, the slightly crisp broccoli, and the creamy, garlicky sauce create a symphony in your mouth. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, making it a healthy and delicious choice. Forget takeout; this is a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in your own kitchen in under 30 minutes! Looking for serving suggestions? This Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli is fantastic served over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa. The grains soak up all that delicious sauce, making every bite a delight. For a low-carb option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. You could also toss it with your favorite pasta for a heartier meal. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity. Want to get creative? Feel free to experiment with different variations! Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top for extra richness. Toss in some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of white wine to the sauce for a more complex flavor profile. You can even substitute the broccoli with other vegetables like asparagus, green beans, or bell peppers. The possibilities are endless! I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. It’s also a great way to get your kids to eat their vegetables! The garlicky butter sauce is so flavorful that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. This Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli is a guaranteed winner. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? Did you make any variations? What did you think? Share your photos and comments in the section below. Let’s create a community of garlic butter shrimp broccoli lovers! I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy cooking!

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