Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli

this RECIPE

This Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli recipe is the weeknight dinner hero you didn’t know you needed. It’s quick, simple, and bursting with bold garlic flavor, tender shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a zesty, buttery pan sauce that ties it all together beautifully.

Low in carbs and packed with protein, this one-pan dish is ready in under 25 minutes and delivers comfort without the heaviness. Whether you’re meal-prepping, eating clean, or just want something fresh and satisfying, this is a go-to you’ll make again and again!

Ingredients

• 1½ lbs medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1½ lbs broccoli, rinsed and cut into florets
• 3 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• 2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
• ¼ cup vegetable stock
• 1 tbsp hot sauce (your favorite – like Sriracha or Frank’s)
• Crushed red pepper flakes, optional
• 3 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Broccoli

Heat a large non-stick or cast iron skillet over medium heat with 1 tbsp olive oil and 1 tbsp butter.
Add the broccoli and season lightly with salt and pepper.
Sauté for 4–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s just tender and bright green.
Remove broccoli and set aside.

2. Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tbsp butter.
Add the shrimp in a single layer and season with salt and pepper.
Cook for 1–2 minutes on one side until just starting to turn pink.

3. Add the Garlic & Spices

Sprinkle in minced garlic, paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder.
Toss the shrimp gently to coat and flip to cook on the other side for 1 more minute.

4. Build the Sauce

Pour in ¼ cup vegetable stock and 1 tbsp hot sauce.
Let the sauce simmer and reduce slightly, about 1 minute.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp—they should be just firm and opaque.

5. Finish with Lemon & Reheat Broccoli

Push shrimp to one side of the pan and return the broccoli.
Toss everything together and drizzle with lemon juice.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes, just until everything is heated through and coated in the sauce.

6. Serve & Garnish

Sprinkle with chopped parsley, extra lemon slices, and crushed chili flakes if desired.
Serve immediately on its own or over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.

Notes

• Be careful not to overcook the shrimp—they only need a couple of minutes per side.
• Customize the heat with more or less hot sauce or red pepper flakes.
• Add a handful of cherry tomatoes or sliced bell peppers for more veggie color.
• For extra richness, swirl in an extra pat of butter at the end!

Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12–15 minutes
Total Time: 22–25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner / One-Pan Meal
Method: Sauté / Pan-fried
Cuisine: American / Healthy
Diet: Low-carb / Gluten-free / Pescatarian
Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, shrimp and broccoli, one pan dinner, low-carb shrimp recipe, healthy shrimp skillet

Equipment

• Cast iron or non-stick skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Tongs or spatula
• Citrus press (optional for lemon juice)

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
Calories: 310
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 610mg
Fat: 19g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 28g
Cholesterol: 215mg

Helpful Tips

• Fresh or frozen shrimp: Both work great—just thaw frozen shrimp completely and pat dry before cooking.
• Tail-on shrimp adds presentation points, but tail-off is easier for eating, especially for meal prep.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook shrimp in batches if needed for even searing.
• Prep ahead: Cut broccoli and mix seasonings ahead for a faster weeknight meal.
• Want to thicken the sauce? Add 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with water during the last simmer.

Conservation and Storage

• Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Not ideal, as shrimp can get rubbery when reheated from frozen.
• Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of stock or water.

Substitutions and Variations

• Butter alternative: Use ghee or a plant-based butter for dairy-free.
• Broccoli swap: Try broccolini, green beans, or zucchini for variety.
• Shrimp swap: Use scallops or even diced chicken breast.
• Add-ins: Try cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or cooked quinoa for extra nutrients.

Storage Instructions

1. Cool completely before storing.
2. Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
3. Reheat in a pan over medium heat or microwave in short bursts with a bit of water or broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! Add extra chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or more hot sauce to taste.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Absolutely—it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats.

What kind of shrimp should I buy?
Medium or large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined, are easiest to work with. Avoid precooked shrimp for this recipe.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but it may release more water—sauté a little longer to remove excess moisture.

Conclusion

This Healthy Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli is your weeknight dinner hero—bold in flavor, low in effort, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Whether you’re eating light, craving comfort, or looking to meal prep something satisfying, this dish delivers on every level. Bonus: it’s ready in under 25 minutes!

More easy & healthy dinners to try:

• Lemon Garlic Salmon with Asparagus
• One-Pan Chicken and Veggie Stir Fry
• Creamy Tuscan Shrimp with Spinach

Made it? Tag your plate!
Share your dish with #GarlicButterShrimpSkillet on Instagram or Pinterest—I love seeing your sizzling creations!

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