Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

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Juicy shrimp seared to perfection in rich garlic butter, tossed with vibrant green broccoli—this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is the kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like it took hours, but comes together in minutes. The flavor is bold, buttery, and just the right amount of garlicky, pairing beautifully with the tender-crisp broccoli.

It’s a wholesome, low-carb, protein-packed meal that’s both indulgent and balanced. Whether you’re meal-prepping, eating clean, or just trying to get dinner on the table fast, this dish checks every box. Serve it over rice, noodles, or enjoy it straight from the skillet—it’s that satisfying.

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What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For the best results, use large or jumbo shrimp that are peeled and deveined. Tail-on shrimp are great for presentation, but tail-off makes for easier eating. Fresh or frozen shrimp both work—just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before cooking to get that beautiful golden sear. Avoid pre-cooked shrimp, as they can turn rubbery when reheated.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Shrimp
The star of the dish—choose plump, raw shrimp for a sweet, clean flavor and juicy texture. They’re fast-cooking and soak up all that garlic butter beautifully.

Broccoli Florets
Adds a pop of color and a wholesome crunch. Broccoli balances the richness of the butter with its mild bitterness and soaks in the flavors from the skillet.

Garlic
The backbone of this dish. Freshly minced garlic infuses the butter and coats the shrimp and broccoli with its savory aroma.

Butter
A rich, golden base that ties everything together. Use unsalted butter so you can control the salt level of the dish.

Olive Oil
Helps achieve a nice sear on the shrimp without burning the butter.

Lemon Juice
Adds brightness and balances the richness of the butter and garlic.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning—enhances the natural flavors of the shrimp and broccoli.

Red Pepper Flakes (optional)
If you like a touch of heat, this gives a subtle spicy kick without overwhelming the dish.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Before anything hits the skillet, get everything ready. Peel and devein the shrimp, cut the broccoli into small florets, mince the garlic, and measure out your seasonings. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli and sauté for about 4–5 minutes, or until it begins to soften and gets a bit of char. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and half the butter. Once melted, stir in the garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp in a single layer. Sear 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Add the remaining butter and the sautéed broccoli back to the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat in the garlic butter. Squeeze in lemon juice, season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Stir well and let everything heat through for another minute.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove from heat and serve immediately while it’s still hot and buttery. This dish is perfect as-is or over rice, quinoa, or pasta.

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Serving and Storing Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

This dish is best served immediately while the shrimp is juicy and the butter is still sizzling. Plate it over a bed of jasmine rice, buttery mashed potatoes, or your favorite grain. For a low-carb meal, serve it with cauliflower rice or just as it is in a bowl.

To store leftovers, let the shrimp and broccoli cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Can I substitute the broccoli?

Absolutely. Try snap peas, asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers for a different veggie spin.

Is this dish spicy?

Not by default. The red pepper flakes are optional, so you can skip them or adjust the amount to your liking.

What type of butter should I use?

Use unsalted butter to better control the seasoning. If using salted, reduce added salt in the recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead (chop, mince, measure) and cook everything quickly when ready to eat.

How do I keep the shrimp from getting rubbery?

Don’t overcook them! Shrimp cook fast—about 1 to 2 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, they’re done.

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Want More Dinner Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli, try out these flavorful weeknight meals that keep things exciting:

• Sweet Garlic Chicken in the Crockpot for a hands-off, comforting dinner.
• Beef and Rotini in Garlic Parmesan Sauce with a creamy twist.
• Pan-Seared Mediterranean Cod in Tomato Basil Sauce for seafood lovers wanting something light.
• Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet if you like bold spice and big flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Lobster Tails for a luxurious seafood dinner.

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Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic? Add chili flakes for more heat? Maybe swapped in a different veggie?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, faster, and tastier.

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