Introduction to Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
Welcome to my kitchen! If you’re like me, your days can be a whirlwind of chaos, juggling work, family, and those never-ending to-do lists. That’s why I adore recipes like Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet. It’s a quick solution for busy days, running from one task to the next. This dish brings some delight to your dinner table in just 25 minutes! Not only does it serve up vibrant flavors, but it also impresses loved ones while fitting into your hectic schedule. Let’s embark on this delicious culinary adventure together!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet is a true lifesaver! It cooks up quickly, giving you a delicious meal in no time. The combination of succulent shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli makes for a feast that delights the senses. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, cutting down on cleanup. With a burst of garlic and buttery richness, every bite is a satisfying escape from the everyday hustle. You’ll love how effortless it is!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy of cooking! For this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet, you’ll need vibrant broccoli, fresh or frozen shrimp, and a handful of pantry staples. Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll be using:
- Shrimp: Use medium raw shrimp for that succulent bite. They can be fresh or frozen; just make sure to thaw beforehand!
- Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are a must. They add a lovely crunch and are packed with nutrients that make this meal a guilt-free pleasure.
- Butter: The star of our garlic butter sauce! It adds richness and depth to the dish. Feel free to use unsalted butter for more control over seasoning.
- Olive Oil: A dash of olive oil helps sauté the broccoli to perfection. Plus, it’s heart-healthy!
- Garlic: Five cloves of minced garlic are non-negotiable! They infuse the dish with aromatic flavor and warmth.
- Spices: Paprika and Italian seasoning bring a splendid warmth and complexity. Don’t skip these—they make a world of difference!
- Onion Powder: This simple powder adds a sweet, savory note, enhancing the overall flavor without any onions to chop!
- Vegetable Stock: Giving the sauce body, the stock keeps the shrimp juicy and delicious. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
- Sriracha: Add a tablespoon for a delightful kick of heat! Adjust it to match your spice tolerance, or switch it out for your favorite hot sauce.
- Lemon Juice: A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens up the dish beautifully, cutting through the richness.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and a fresh finish.
- Optional: Feel free to toss in crushed chili pepper flakes if you love an extra spicy kick!
Exact measurements are at the bottom of the article, ready for printing if you’d like to keep them handy while cooking!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
Ready to create a feast that will wow your family? Let’s dive into this straightforward process. With just a few steps, you’ll have a flavorful Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet that shines on your dining table. Here’s how it’s done!
Step 1: Sauté the Broccoli
Start by heating a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once the butter has melted, toss in the broccoli florets. Season them with a pinch of salt and pepper for a burst of flavor.
Sauté the broccoli for about 4-6 minutes, until it’s crisp-tender. You want to preserve that delightful crunch! Once done, remove the broccoli from the pan and set it aside. This step helps the broccoli retain its bright green color and nutrients.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and then the shrimp. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper too! Sauté the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on one side until they turn pink.
Ideally, you should wait for that lovely color to develop; it’s like a little food magic! This ensures the shrimp cooks evenly and stays juicy inside. Flip them over so both sides get that gorgeous golden seal.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Now comes the best part! Add in the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder to the shrimp. Stir everything together well. You’ll notice that the aromas begin to swirl, filling your kitchen with an irresistible scent.
Cook the shrimp with these spices for just about a minute. Then pour in 1/4 cup of vegetable stock and the Sriracha. Let this mixture simmer. You want the sauce to reduce slightly, savoring those rich flavors without overcooking the shrimp!
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Push the cooked shrimp to one side of the skillet and carefully return the sautéed broccoli to the pan. Stir gently to coat the broccoli in that heavenly sauce.
Now, squeeze half a lemon over the shrimp and broccoli, infusing your dish with a zesty burst. Allow it to reheat for another 1-2 minutes. When it’s piping hot and flavors meld together, it’s time to serve!
Finally, plate up this beautiful dish and sprinkle with fresh parsley or cilantro. If you love a kick, add some crushed chili pepper flakes on top. Dig in right away, as that unique Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet deserves to be savored while still warm!
Tips for Success
- Always thaw frozen shrimp before cooking for even cooking and texture.
- Use a sharp chef’s knife to mince garlic quickly and efficiently.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook shrimp in batches if necessary.
- Taste as you go! Adjust seasoning to fit your family’s preferences.
- For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream at the end.
Equipment Needed
- Large Non-Stick Skillet: Essential for easy cooking and cleanup. A regular skillet will work too, but non-stick is preferred!
- Chef’s Knife: Perfect for mincing garlic and chopping broccoli.
- Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping ingredients.
- Spatula: For flipping shrimp and stirring broccoli with ease.
Variations of Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
- Swap Proteins: Try using scallops or chicken instead of shrimp for a different take on this dish.
- Make it Vegetarian: Replace shrimp with chickpeas or tofu for a hearty plant-based meal.
- Add More Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra color and crunch.
- Seasonal Spin: Use seasonal vegetables like asparagus in the spring or zucchini in the summer for fresh flavors.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with various hot sauces or spices like Cajun seasoning for a deliciously spicy twist.
- Gluten-Free Pasta: Serve on a bed of gluten-free pasta instead of rice for a filling meal suitable for gluten-sensitive family members.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
- Pair your skillet dish with jasmine or brown rice to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce.
- A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast.
- Consider a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc for a delightful sip.
- For presentation, sprinkle extra parsley or lemon wedges on the side for a pop of color!
FAQs about Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
Let’s tackle some of the most common questions about this mouthwatering Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet. I know you probably have a few questions before diving in, so let’s clear them up!
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just remember to thaw the frozen shrimp beforehand. This ensures even cooking and a juicy texture that you’ll love. I often grab a bag of frozen shrimp on busy days, and they work wonderfully!
What can I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet?
I recommend pairing this dish with jasmine rice, brown rice, or even gluten-free pasta. These sides are perfect for soaking up the scrumptious garlic butter sauce. You can also enjoy it with a simple mixed salad for added freshness!
How do I store leftovers?
If you have any leftover skillet goodness, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for about 2-3 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove for a quick meal. I love having these leftovers for lunch the next day!
Can I make it spicy?
Of course! Feel free to increase the amount of Sriracha or add your preferred hot sauce. You can also sprinkle in some crushed chili pepper flakes for an extra kick. Spice is a great way to complement the rich garlic butter flavor!
What’s the best way to tell when shrimp are cooked?
Great question! Shrimp are done when they turn pink and opaque. Generally, they should curl up a bit as well. If you’re unsure, you can always cut one in half to check if it’s cooked through. Rest assured, you’ll soon master the art of shrimp cooking!
Final Thoughts
Creating this Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet is more than just cooking; it’s about bringing joy to your family table. The delightful flavors and vibrant colors transform a busy night into a memorable meal. I love how this dish comes together so quickly—perfect for my hectic lifestyle. Whether you’re celebrating a family milestone or just a regular Tuesday, this recipe adds a touch of magic to your routine. As you savor each bite, you’ll appreciate not just the meal, but the smiles and warmth it brings. Dive in and enjoy every delicious moment!
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Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A quick and delicious recipe for Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli cooked in a skillet, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 lbs (700g) broccoli (1 1/2 crown), rinsed and cut into florets
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable stock
- 1 tablespoon Sriracha (or any hot sauce you like)
- Crushed chili pepper flakes, optional
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- To prepare the garlic butter shrimp recipe with broccoli: Place a large non-stick skillet with 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the broccoli and season to taste. Saute the broccoli until crisp-tender, 4-6 minutes. Remove sautéed broccoli from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and add shrimp. Season with salt and pepper, sauté shrimp 1-2 minutes on one side.
- Add the minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder to the shrimp. Stir to combine and flip the shrimp to cook on the opposite side. Cook shrimp for 1 minute then add 1/4 cup vegetable stock and Sriracha. Allow the sauce to reduce for 1 minute, making sure not to overcook the shrimp.
- Push the grilled shrimp on the side and add broccoli florets back to the pan. Stir broccoli to coat it into the sauce and squeeze half of a lemon over the top of the grilled shrimp and broccoli. Reheat for 1-2 minutes. Remove grilled shrimp and broccoli from heat, garnish with parsley, lemon slices, and red crushed chili pepper if you like. Serve your garlic butter shrimp with broccoli immediately, enjoy!
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp, but ensure they are fully thawed if using frozen.
- Adjust the level of Sriracha based on your heat preference.
- This dish can be served over rice or pasta for a fuller meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Shrimp, Broccoli Skillet, Quick Dinner