If you’re craving a meal that comes together in no time but still bursts with amazing flavor, this One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe is a total game-changer. Imagine plump, juicy shrimp mingling with tender, bright green broccoli, all cooked in a luscious sauce kissed by garlic, lemon, and just a hint of heat. This dish not only delivers a gorgeous balance of taste and texture but also keeps cleanup a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Once you try it, this recipe will quickly become your go-to for a satisfying, wholesome dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping ingredients simple is the key to this One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe’s success. Each element plays a vital role—fresh shrimp brings the star protein, broccoli adds color and crunch, while garlic and lemon brighten everything up with bold, fresh flavors.
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Choose fresh or thawed shrimp for juicy, tender bites.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps sear the shrimp perfectly.
- 3 tablespoons butter: Melts into a creamy base for cooking garlic and broccoli.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with its signature savory, aromatic punch.
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets: Provides crunch and vibrant green color.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Adds a fresh, fragrant citrus spark.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Balances flavors with zesty brightness.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): Offers a subtle kick of heat to wake up your palate.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances and rounds out all the flavors.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): A fresh, herbaceous finish that also looks lovely.
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth: Forms the flavorful cooking liquid that steams and softens the broccoli.
- 1 tablespoon fresh Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish): Adds a salty, nutty touch for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Shrimp
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Lay the shrimp in a single layer and let them cook for around 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. This quick sear locks in their juiciness. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a separate plate to keep them tender and juicy while you move on to the next step.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Garlic is the true hero here, so add your minced cloves and sauté for about 1 minute. You’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen fills with that intoxicating garlicky aroma. Be careful not to burn it though – it only needs a brief moment to release those flavors.
Step 3: Cook the Broccoli
Next, toss the broccoli florets into the buttery garlic mixture. Stir occasionally as you let them cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. You want the broccoli to soften just enough to be tender but still hold that bright green color and some crunch. It’s that perfect texture that makes this recipe so enjoyable.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Then cover the skillet and let it cook for 4 to 5 minutes. This step steams the broccoli into tender perfection while infusing the entire dish with deep, savory flavor from the broth.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the shrimp to the skillet and give everything a good toss to blend the shrimp with the broccoli. Now sprinkle in lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes if you’re using them, plus salt and pepper to your liking. Let it all heat together for an additional 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld perfectly and the shrimp are warmed through.
Step 6: Garnish and Finish
Turn off the heat and garnish generously with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if you like that extra cheesy, nutty touch. This final step makes the dish pop visually and flavor-wise—ready to be enjoyed right away.
How to Serve One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley add a bright herbal note and a lovely color contrast. A little grated Parmesan or even a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate your serving to new heights. Don’t be shy about these finishing touches—they really make the dish feel special and restaurant-quality.
Side Dishes
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe shines well on its own, but if you want to turn it into a fuller meal, consider serving it alongside crusty bread to soak up every bit of the garlicky buttery sauce. Light rice, quinoa, or even a simple pasta can also make great companions, transforming this into a hearty feast that everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving this dish in individual shallow bowls topped with a lemon wedge for an extra zing. If you’re hosting, arrange the shrimp and broccoli on a large platter garnished with parsley and Parmesan—perfect for family-style dining. You can even toss in some toasted nuts or seeds for texture variation that will keep guests talking.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Stored properly in the fridge, they should stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days. The shrimp and broccoli hold up well but tend to lose some crispness, so reheat gently.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe, it’s best to do so before adding any fresh garnishes. Place it in a freezer-safe container and use it within a month for the best taste. Keep in mind that the broccoli might become softer after freezing, but it will still be delicious when heated.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a splash of broth or water can help keep everything moist. Microwaving works in a pinch but do so in short bursts to preserve texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to get the best sear and avoid excess water in the skillet.
What can I substitute for broccoli?
Feel free to swap broccoli for other veggies like asparagus, green beans, or snap peas. Just adjust cooking times accordingly so everything stays crisp-tender.
Is this recipe spicy?
The red pepper flakes are optional and give a mild kick. If you prefer no heat, simply leave them out. The lemon and garlic flavors still pack plenty of punch.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute shrimp for firm tofu or tempeh, use vegetable broth, and swap butter for olive oil or vegan butter. It won’t be quite the same, but still tasty and garlicky.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
It’s naturally gluten-free—just make sure your broth and any added seasonings don’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a meal that comes together quickly, tastes incredible, and only uses one pan to do it. The One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe ticks every box, offering you a delightful mix of flavors and textures with minimal fuss. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite weeknight meal that feels like a little celebration every time you cook it.
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One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This One-Pot Garlicky Shrimp & Broccoli recipe is a quick, flavorful, and healthy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp are sautéed and combined with vibrant broccoli florets cooked in a garlicky butter sauce with a hint of lemon zest and juice. It’s a delightful balance of savory, zesty, and mildly spicy flavors, all cooked in one skillet for easy cleanup.
Ingredients
Shrimp
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Vegetables and Seasonings
- 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)
Liquids and 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 garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
- Simmer broccoli: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for an additional 4–5 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant green.
- Combine shrimp and season: Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss them with the broccoli. Stir in lemon zest, lemon juice, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving.
Notes
- Use peeled and deveined shrimp for convenience and easy eating.
- If you prefer spicier dishes, increase the red pepper flakes gradually.
- Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly option (except shrimp inclusion).
- Parmesan cheese is optional; omit for a dairy-free meal.
- Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
