Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli

Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Servings: 4

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Introduction

garlic butter shrimp and broccoli is a fast, flavor-forward weeknight dinner that pairs juicy seared shrimp with tender-crisp green florets in a glossy butter-garlic sauce. The buttery richness carries sweet garlic aromas, while a splash of lemon brightens every bite so it tastes indulgent yet fresh. This one-pan skillet keeps cleanup easy and the timing foolproof, making it a reliable go-to when you want restaurant polish with homey comfort.

Ingredients

Shrimp & Broccoli

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled & deveined (450 g)
• 2 cups broccoli florets (200 g)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (15 ml)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (30 g)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (15 ml)
• Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste

For Serving (Optional)

• ½ cup finely grated Parmesan (50 g)
• Cooked rice or pasta
• Lemon wedges, for extra brightness

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Blanch the broccoli: Boil a pot of salted water. Add florets for 60 seconds until bright green, then shock in ice water. Drain well so they sauté, not steam.
2. Sear the shrimp: Pat shrimp dry; season lightly with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until pink with light golden edges. Transfer to a plate.
3. Sauté aromatics: Reduce heat to medium. Melt butter in the same skillet; add garlic and red pepper flakes. Stir 30 seconds until fragrant—avoid browning for a sweet, mellow garlic flavor.
4. Coat the broccoli: Add drained broccoli; toss 2–3 minutes until hot and glossy, still crisp-tender. Season with a pinch of salt.
5. Finish the pan sauce: Return shrimp to the skillet. Add lemon juice and any shrimp juices; toss 30–60 seconds until everything is coated in the garlicky butter. Adjust salt, pepper, and lemon to taste.
6. Serve: Plate immediately with rice or pasta. Sprinkle Parmesan for a creamy, savory finish and serve with extra lemon wedges.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—thaw completely, then press dry with paper towels. Excess moisture prevents browning and dilutes the sauce.

How do I keep broccoli crisp?

Blanch briefly and drain very well. In the skillet, cook just until heated through; overcooking softens it and mutes the color.

How can I make it spicier?

Increase red pepper flakes to ½ tsp, or add a dash of hot sauce when sautéing the garlic for a bolder kick.

Recipe by Ana — Los Angeles, USA (10 years of professional cooking)

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