Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender shrimp and crisp broccoli, all tossed in a rich garlic butter sauce. The shrimp get perfectly cooked in just minutes, soaking up the buttery, garlicky flavors that make this meal feel special without much fuss.
I love making this skillet when I want something simple but satisfying, especially on busy weeknights. What’s great is that it’s all done in one pan, so cleanup is easy, and you still get a fresh, colorful plate that feels homemade. A little squeeze of lemon at the end always brightens things up and is my favorite finishing touch.
This recipe is one of those hits that everyone seems to enjoy, whether you’re cooking for yourself or friends. It’s great served over rice or pasta, but I often eat it just as is for a low-carb option. I find myself coming back to it again and again because it’s both comforting and full of flavor without feeling heavy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp work here. If using frozen, thaw completely and pat dry. You can use peeled shrimp with tails on for presentation, or tails off for easier eating.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli gives the best crunch. You can swap for frozen, but cook a little longer to avoid sogginess. Cauliflower florets are a nice alternative too.
Butter & Olive Oil: Butter adds rich flavor, while olive oil helps prevent burning. For dairy-free, use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that bold, fragrant taste. Garlic powder can work in a pinch but won’t be as vibrant.
Parsley & Lemon Juice: Fresh parsley brings brightness, but dried herbs can work if fresh isn’t available. Lemon juice lifts the flavors—don’t skip this fresh zing!
How Can You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Shrimp cook very quickly and can get rubbery if overdone. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat skillet and cook shrimp in a single layer for 2-3 minutes on one side until edges turn pink and start to curl.
- Flip shrimp and add butter for flavor.
- Cook another 2 minutes until shrimp are opaque but still tender.
- Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.
Keep shrimp moving only after flipping, and watch closely—they’ll go from perfect to tough fast!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – I like a wide skillet so everything cooks evenly and you can toss ingredients easily.
- Spatula or tongs – helps flip the shrimp and stir the broccoli without breaking them apart.
- Measuring spoons – for accurate amounts of butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic and parsley quickly and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Spice it up with a dash of paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Add a splash of white wine or chicken broth when cooking the shrimp for more depth.
- Mix in some cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for more color and sweetness.
- If you like a bit of cheese, sprinkle some grated Parmesan on top just before serving.
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of half a lemon (about 1 tbsp)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes total — 5 minutes to prep the ingredients and about 10 minutes to cook everything up quickly and deliciously. Perfect for a fast weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Broccoli:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, stirring every now and then. Cook until the broccoli is bright green, tender-crisp, and a little browned. When ready, remove the broccoli from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté Garlic and Start the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of spice. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant—be careful not to burn the garlic!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Place the shrimp in a single layer in the skillet. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes so they turn pink and start to get a little golden on one side.
4. Finish Cooking the Shrimp:
Flip the shrimp over, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, and keep stirring the shrimp around for 2 more minutes until they are fully cooked and opaque.
5. Combine and Season:
Return the cooked broccoli to the skillet and gently toss everything together to warm through and mix the flavors.
6. Add Freshness:
Stir in the fresh parsley and lemon juice. Taste and add a bit more salt or pepper if you want.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your garlic butter shrimp and broccoli hot from the skillet. It’s lovely on its own or served over rice, pasta, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the skillet.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to prevent the shrimp from getting rubbery.
Can I Substitute the Broccoli?
Absolutely! Cauliflower florets, green beans, or asparagus make great alternatives. Just adjust the cooking time so the vegetables stay tender-crisp.
Is It Possible to Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking the garlic for a bolder kick. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side.