Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe! It’s one of those dishes that just makes my heart sing every time I whip it up. Seriously, it’s so simple yet bursting with flavor that you’ll think you’re dining at a fancy restaurant! The best part? You can have it on your table in just 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Imagine the rich aroma of garlic sizzling in butter, the vibrant green of the broccoli, and those juicy shrimp turning the most beautiful pink as they cook. It’s a sensory delight that’s not only quick to make but also healthy and satisfying. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become your go-to meal for any night of the week. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – I love using fresh shrimp for that sweet, briny flavor!
- 2 cups broccoli florets – Fresh or frozen, they add such a beautiful color and crunch!
- 4 tablespoons butter – This is where the magic happens, bringing all those flavors together.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The more garlic, the better, right? It gives the dish that soul-satisfying aroma!
- Salt to taste – Just a pinch or a sprinkle, depending on your preference.
- Pepper to taste – Freshly cracked black pepper adds a nice kick.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice – A splash of brightness that ties everything together!
How to Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet Recipe
Step 1 – Heat the Skillet
First things first, grab your trusty skillet and heat it over medium heat. You want it hot enough to sizzle but not so hot that it smokes. We’re just warming it up, so take your time—this step is essential to get everything cooking evenly!
Step 2 – Melt the Butter
Once your skillet is nice and toasty, add in those lovely 4 tablespoons of butter. Let it melt gently, swirling it around the pan until it’s completely liquid. Be careful not to let it brown; we want that beautiful buttery flavor without any burnt bits. Just imagine that creamy richness starting to fill the air!
Step 3 – Sauté the Garlic
Next up, toss in the minced garlic. Oh boy, this is where the magic really begins! Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. You want to release all those delicious aromas without burning it—burnt garlic is a no-go in my book! Keep an eye on it; you want it just golden and fragrant.
Step 4 – Cook the Shrimp
Now it’s time for the star of the show—add your shrimp to the skillet! Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a gorgeous pink color and are opaque. Trust me, the sight alone will make your mouth water!
Step 5 – Add the Broccoli
When the shrimp are looking perfect, it’s time to add those vibrant broccoli florets. Stir-fry them together for another 3-4 minutes. You want the broccoli to be tender yet still crisp—just the right bite! Keep stirring so everything gets coated in that garlic butter goodness.
Step 6 – Season the Dish
Now, let’s give it some love with seasoning! Sprinkle in salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste, and don’t forget that zesty tablespoon of lemon juice. This is the moment where everything comes together, adding brightness and balance to your dish. Just give it a quick stir to combine!
Step 7 – Serve Hot
Finally, it’s time to dish it out! Serve your garlic butter shrimp and broccoli hot, straight from the skillet if you’re feeling fancy. I love to pair it with a side of rice or pasta to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy every bite and bask in the compliments you’re sure to receive!
Nutritional Information
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of things! This garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe is not only delicious but also pretty guilt-free. Here’s a quick look at the estimated nutritional values for one serving:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 14g
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fiber: 2g
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. But overall, this dish is a fantastic option if you’re looking for something low-calorie and high in protein. So, dig in and enjoy without any worries!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: You can have this delicious meal ready in just 25 minutes! Perfect for those busy evenings when you need something tasty in a flash.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich, mouthwatering sauce that clings beautifully to the shrimp and broccoli. Every bite is bursting with flavor!
- Low Calorie: With only 250 calories per serving, this dish is a guilt-free option that won’t derail your healthy eating goals.
- Healthy: Packed with protein from the shrimp and vitamins from the broccoli, it’s a nutritious choice that’s as good for you as it is satisfying.
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure you nail this garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe! Here are some of my top tips to ensure your dish turns out absolutely perfect:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh shrimp and broccoli. It makes a world of difference in flavor and texture!
- Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: If you’re making a larger batch, cook the shrimp in batches instead of overcrowding the pan. This way, they’ll get that lovely sear instead of steaming.
- Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on your heat levels! Too high, and you risk burning the garlic; too low, and the shrimp won’t cook properly. Medium heat is your best friend here!
- Customize Your Garlic Amount: If you’re a garlic lover like me, feel free to add more! But if you prefer a milder taste, you can always scale it down.
- Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to get creative! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely kick, or try adding some fresh herbs like parsley or basil for extra freshness.
- Serve with a Side: Pair it with rice, quinoa, or even a crusty piece of bread to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce. It takes the meal to the next level!
- Leftovers: If you have any leftovers (which, let’s be real, is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s still delish the next day, just give it a quick reheat!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be whipping up this dish like a pro in no time. Enjoy the cooking process and, of course, the wonderful meal that follows!
Variations
If you’re anything like me, you love a little creativity in the kitchen! This garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe is super versatile, and you can easily switch things up to keep it exciting. Here are some fun variations to consider:
- Swap the Vegetables: Not a fan of broccoli? No problem! You can use green beans, snap peas, or bell peppers instead. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure everything is tender yet crisp.
- Add Some Heat: If you like a bit of spice, toss in some red pepper flakes or even a dash of sriracha while cooking. It adds a lovely kick that really elevates the dish!
- Citrus Twist: Want to give it a zesty flair? Try adding lime juice instead of lemon or even some lime zest for an extra burst of flavor. It pairs beautifully with shrimp!
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs can take this dish to a whole new level. Consider adding chopped parsley, cilantro, or even basil right before serving for a fresh, aromatic touch.
- Protein Swap: Don’t feel like shrimp? You could easily substitute chicken, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Creamy Addition: For a richer sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end. It makes everything extra creamy and indulgent!
- Cheesy Upgrade: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or feta cheese over the top just before serving. The salty tang of cheese complements the garlic butter beautifully!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a version that suits your taste buds. Cooking should be fun and personal, so don’t hesitate to experiment! I can’t wait to hear what variations you come up with!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, if you happen to have any leftovers from your delicious garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet (which, let’s be honest, is a rarity!), here’s how to store and reheat them to keep all that flavor intact.
First, let your skillet cool down a bit before transferring any leftovers to an airtight container. This will help prevent condensation from forming, which can make your shrimp and broccoli soggy. I usually pop it in the fridge within two hours of cooking to keep everything fresh.
Store your leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just make sure to seal the container tightly! When you’re ready to enjoy it again, the best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a little extra butter to help bring back that moisture and flavor. Stir everything gently until it’s warmed through. You’ll want to keep an eye on it, so it doesn’t overcook. The shrimp can get rubbery if reheated for too long!
If you want to save it for a longer time, you can freeze the garlic butter shrimp and broccoli. Just place the cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container or a resealable bag. They should keep well for about 1-2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat it as mentioned above. Keep in mind that freezing can change the texture slightly, but it will still taste delicious!
With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor this scrumptious dish even days later! Enjoy every bite!
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet Recipe Bliss
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Calorie
Description
A simple and delicious garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet dish.
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Heat a skillet over medium heat.
- Add butter and let it melt.
- Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add broccoli and stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes.
- Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh shrimp for best flavor.
- Adjust garlic amount based on preference.
- Can add red pepper flakes for spice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe
