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Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli - Fast, Flavorful, and Satisfying

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
  • 4 cups broccoli florets, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, adds depth)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Cooked rice, pasta, or crusty bread, for serving

Method
 

  1. Prep the shrimp. Pat shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss with 1/4 teaspoon salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Dry shrimp brown better and don’t steam.
  2. Blanch or steam the broccoli. Bring a small pot of salted water to a boil. Cook florets for 1–2 minutes until bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and set aside. Alternatively, microwave with a splash of water for 2–3 minutes. This head start helps the timing.
  3. Sear the shrimp. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high. Add shrimp in a single layer. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until just opaque and lightly golden. Transfer to a plate. Do not overcook.
  4. Sauté the aromatics. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter. Stir in garlic and red pepper flakes. Cook 30–45 seconds until fragrant. Keep it moving so it doesn’t burn.
  5. Add the broccoli. Toss in the blanched broccoli with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir for 1–2 minutes to coat in garlicky butter and warm through. If the pan seems dry, add a splash of water or broth to loosen.
  6. Finish the sauce. Add remaining 2 tablespoons butter. Once melted, return shrimp and any juices to the pan. Stir in lemon juice and zest. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and lemon.
  7. Serve immediately. Sprinkle with parsley. Plate over rice or pasta, or serve with bread. Spoon extra sauce on top. Enjoy while hot and glossy.