Introduction
Craving a delicious and healthy meal that’s ready in minutes? Look no further than this one-pan garlic butter shrimp with broccoli recipe! This quick and easy dish is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich, garlicky butter sauce. Not only is it incredibly tasty, but it also minimizes cleanup, thanks to its one-pan approach. Say goodbye to mountains of dishes and hello to a satisfying meal in no time!
One-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli: The Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 tablespoons butter, unsalted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (or white wine)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the broccoli: Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- Melt the butter: In a large skillet or oven-safe pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to turn bright green and become slightly tender.
- Add the shrimp: Add the shrimp to the pan. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Create the sauce: Pour in the chicken broth (or white wine) and lemon juice. Bring to a simmer and cook for another minute, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Serve immediately: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over rice, pasta, or quinoa.
Tips & Variations for the Best Results
- Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and lemon juice will significantly enhance the flavor of the dish.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. Cook just until they turn pink and opaque.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the pan, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus.
- Spice it up: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Make it cheesy: Sprinkle some grated parmesan cheese over the dish before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
- Oven Bake Option: For a hands-off approach, you can bake this dish in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the shrimp are cooked through and the broccoli is tender.
Why This Recipe Works
This one-pan garlic butter shrimp with broccoli recipe is a winner for several reasons:
- Speed: It’s incredibly quick to prepare and cook, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Ease: The one-pan approach minimizes cleanup, saving you time and effort.
- Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, lemon juice, and fresh shrimp creates a delicious and satisfying meal.
- Health: It’s packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber, making it a healthy and nutritious choice.
Conclusion
This one-pan garlic butter shrimp with broccoli is a simple, yet elegant meal that delivers big on flavor and convenience. With its minimal ingredients and easy instructions, you can enjoy a healthy and delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. So, next time you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!
