If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful, quick, and fuss-free dinner, the One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is an absolute winner. It beautifully combines succulent shrimp with tender broccoli, all infused with a rich garlic butter sauce that hits all the right notes. The vibrant lemon zest and juice brighten every bite, while a subtle hint of red pepper adds just enough zing to keep things exciting. This dish is not only a feast for your taste buds but also a simple, nutritious meal perfect for busy weeknights or anytime you want a satisfying, homemade dinner without the mess.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe, you only need a handful of fresh, straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: the shrimp brings that mild sweetness and tender bite, broccoli adds a crisp, green crunch, and garlic and lemon give the dish its vibrant, flavorful punch.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: The star protein, cooked to juicy perfection.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the shrimp and adding richness without overpowering flavors.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Melts into the sauce for that silky, garlicky goodness.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Packs a punch of aromatic flavor that deeply infuses the dish.
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets: Adds vibrant color and healthy crunch that pairs beautifully with seafood.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Provides a fresh citrus aroma that wakes up your palate.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds bright acidity to balance the richness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a gentle heat to make things interesting.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every ingredient.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a lovely pop of color and a fresh, herbal note at the end.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful base to steam the broccoli and build the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon fresh Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): Adds a subtle salty creaminess to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then spread your peeled and deveined shrimp in a single layer. Cooking them for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous pink and feel opaque to the touch seals in that tender sweetness. Once done, set them aside carefully so you have space to build the rest of the dish in the same pan.
Step 2: Build the Garlicky Base
Using the same skillet (no extra dishes needed), melt the butter over medium heat. Then add your minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute until it releases that unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma. This step is essential because the garlic flavor forms the heart of that rich sauce, soaking into every part of the meal.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Next, toss in the vibrant broccoli florets and stir occasionally for 3 to 4 minutes. You want the broccoli to soften just enough to be tender but still maintain that lovely bright green color and satisfying crunch. This texture contrast is one of the many delights of the One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in your chicken or vegetable broth and bring it all to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet and let the broccoli cook fully for another 4 to 5 minutes, soaking up the savory broth while staying vibrant and fresh. This steaming step infuses flavor and perfectly finishes the veggies without overcooking them.
Step 5: Combine and Flavor
Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss everything together. Stir in the lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, and season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Cook an additional 2 to 3 minutes until the shrimp and broccoli are warmed through, bursting with garlicky, citrusy flavor.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Just before serving, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley and a bit of freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an elegant touch. These final details elevate the dish visually and add layers of flavor, sealing the deal on your perfect One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe.
How to Serve One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a must for a burst of green freshness, which brightens the plate and the palate. Finishing with Parmesan cheese adds extra depth with its savory salty notes. You might also consider a few more lemon wedges on the side for those buttery, garlicky bites who love an extra squeeze of citrus.
Side Dishes
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe stands beautifully on its own, but if you want to bulk up the meal, serve it alongside fluffy rice, garlic butter noodles, or even quinoa. A warm crusty bread or garlic toast is another favorite to help mop up all those delicious garlicky juices in the pan.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing meal, serve this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy feel. Alternatively, plate it over creamy mashed potatoes or tossed through pasta for a different texture experience. You can even turn it into a vibrant salad topping or stuff it inside pita bread pockets for a fun, handheld twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Simply transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making leftovers a delicious next-day lunch or quick dinner option. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
Freezing seafood dishes is a bit tricky, but you can freeze the shrimp and broccoli separately if needed. Place them in airtight freezer bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. They’ll keep for up to 1 month, but fresh is always better for that delicate shrimp texture.
Reheating
For reheating, gently warm leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat to prevent the shrimp from turning rubbery. Adding a splash of broth or water helps keep everything moist and tender. Microwave reheating works too, but be careful to heat in short intervals and stir to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work fine as long as you thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking. This step helps avoid excess moisture and ensures your shrimp sear nicely instead of steaming in the pan.
What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the red pepper flakes?
Absolutely! The red pepper flakes are optional and only add a gentle heat that complements the garlic and lemon flavors. Leaving them out will make the dish mild and perfect for sensitive palates or kids.
Is chicken broth better than vegetable broth?
Both work beautifully. Chicken broth adds a richer, deeper flavor, but vegetable broth keeps the dish lighter and vegetarian-friendly. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
Can I substitute the broccoli with another vegetable?
Definitely! Cauliflower, green beans, or asparagus are excellent alternatives that hold up well in a one-pot dish and provide a similar crisp-tender texture.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid any added ingredients containing gluten. It’s a perfect option for those with gluten sensitivities!
Final Thoughts
I’m genuinely thrilled to share this One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe with you because it’s a quick, luscious meal that feels special without any complicated steps. It’s the perfect example of how simple ingredients come together to create something incredibly satisfying and flavorful. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones with this tasty, healthy dish—you’ll wonder how such amazing flavors could all come from just one pot!
Print
One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli recipe is a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights. Succulent shrimp are sautéed with fragrant garlic and tender broccoli, all brought together with a bright touch of lemon and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes. A light broth keeps everything juicy and tender, while optional Parmesan and fresh parsley add a savory, fresh finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the shrimp: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften but retain their vibrant green color.
- Add broth and simmer: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still crisp.
- Combine and season: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the broccoli. Stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until heated through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option; just omit the shrimp.
- Adjust the red pepper flakes to taste or leave them out for a mild flavor.
- Fresh lemon zest and juice brighten the dish and balance the richness of butter and shrimp.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- To save time, you can use pre-cut broccoli florets from the store.
