Go Back

Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli - Fast, Flavorful, and Weeknight Easy

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets (about 1 medium head)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Zest of 1/2 lemon
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, plus wedges for serving
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or chives)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth or dry white wine to deglaze

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp and broccoli: Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with paprika, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Cut broccoli into small, even florets for quick, even cooking.
  2. Blanch or steam the broccoli (optional but recommended): Boil or steam the florets for 1–2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain well and set aside. This keeps the sauté quick and prevents soggy broccoli.
  3. Heat the pan: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. When the butter foams, add half the shrimp in a single layer.
  4. Sear the shrimp: Cook shrimp about 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove to a plate. Repeat with remaining shrimp if needed. Do not overcook.
  5. Build the garlic butter base: Reduce heat to medium. Add 2 tablespoons butter to the skillet. Stir in minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant, stirring so the garlic doesn’t brown.
  6. Deglaze (optional): Add the broth or wine. Scrape up any browned bits. Let it bubble for 30–60 seconds to reduce slightly.
  7. Add broccoli and coat: Toss the broccoli in the garlic butter. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Warm through for 1–2 minutes.
  8. Return shrimp to the pan: Add the shrimp and any juices. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon butter, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Toss until the shrimp are coated and glossy, 30–60 seconds.
  9. Finish and serve: Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with parsley. Taste and adjust with more salt, pepper, or lemon. Serve immediately over rice, pasta, quinoa, or with warm bread.