Low-Carb Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

Name: Low-Carb Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 1/2 lbs broccoli, rinsed and cut into florets; 3 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 2 teaspoons onion powder; Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste; 1/4 cup vegetable stock; 1 tablespoon hot sauce (your choice); Crushed chili pepper flakes (optional); 3 tablespoons lemon juice; Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

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Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on March 14, 2025

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There’s something special about the smell of garlic sizzling in butter. It has a way of filling the kitchen with warmth, signaling that a delicious meal is on the way. Growing up, seafood dishes were always a staple in my home. My mother had a knack for creating meals that were both simple and bursting with flavor, and shrimp was one of her favorite proteins to cook with.

She would often prepare shrimp with whatever ingredients were available—garlic, butter, lemon, and some fresh herbs. Every time she made it, the entire family would gather around the table, eagerly waiting for that first bite. The combination of tender shrimp, rich buttery sauce, and a hint of spice made for the kind of meal that didn’t need any fancy ingredients to be extraordinary.

Now, as an adult, I find myself turning to this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli recipe whenever I need something quick, comforting, and packed with bold flavors. It’s a meal that reminds me of those family dinners—simple yet deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making this for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, it’s sure to become a favorite in your home, just as it has in mine.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Ready in 20 Minutes

One of the biggest perks of this recipe is how quickly it comes together. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a one-pan cooking method, you can have dinner on the table in under 20 minutes—perfect for those nights when time is tight but you still crave something homemade.

2. High-Protein, Low-Carb Meal

This dish is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it a fantastic option for those following a keto or paleo lifestyle. Shrimp is a lean protein packed with essential nutrients, and broccoli adds fiber and antioxidants, making this a well-rounded meal.

3. Bursting with Flavor

The combination of garlic, butter, lemon, and spices creates a rich, savory, and slightly tangy sauce that coats the shrimp and broccoli beautifully. A touch of paprika and hot sauce adds just the right amount of heat, while fresh parsley gives it a refreshing finish.

4. A One-Pan Wonder

Minimal cleanup is always a bonus! Everything is cooked in a single pan, making cleanup a breeze. Less time at the sink means more time enjoying your meal.

Ingredients: A Perfect Fusion of Zesty & Savory

For the Shrimp & Broccoli:

1 1/2 lbs medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 1/2 lbs broccoli, rinsed and cut into florets

For the Garlic Butter Sauce:

3 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
5 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons onion powder
Salt and fresh cracked pepper, to taste
1/4 cup vegetable stock
1 tablespoon hot sauce (your choice)
Crushed chili pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
3 tablespoons lemon juice
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Directions: A Simple Yet Irresistible Cooking Process

Sauté the Broccoli: Heat 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the broccoli florets, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until slightly tender. Remove and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining butter. Toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, and hot sauce. Stir well to coat the shrimp in the seasonings.
Simmer in Flavor: Pour in the vegetable stock and let the shrimp cook for 3-4 minutes until pink and opaque.
Combine Everything: Return the sautéed broccoli to the skillet, drizzle with lemon juice, and mix well to coat everything in the garlic butter sauce. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley and optional crushed chili flakes for extra spice. Serve hot and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown: A Wholesome, Protein-Packed Meal

(Per serving, approximate values)

Calories: 285
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fats: 10g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 620mg

This Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli is a quick, healthy, and flavor-packed dish perfect for weeknight dinners. With bold spices, citrusy brightness, and a rich buttery sauce, every bite is sure to impress!

How to Customize This Dish to Your Taste

Make It Spicier

If you love heat, increase the amount of hot sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also toss in some freshly chopped chili peppers for an extra kick.

Add More Veggies

While broccoli is the perfect match for shrimp, you can easily swap or add other vegetables:

Bell Peppers: Add a sweet and crunchy texture.
Asparagus: Pairs well with the garlicky butter sauce.
Mushrooms: Adds an earthy umami depth to the dish.

Swap the Protein

Not a fan of shrimp? No problem! This recipe works just as well with:

Chicken: Use bite-sized pieces and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Salmon: A great alternative for a heartier seafood option.
Tofu: For a vegetarian-friendly version, use firm tofu and pan-fry until golden.

Serve It Over Your Favorite Base

While this dish is delicious on its own, pairing it with the right side makes it even better:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic choice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Quinoa: A protein-packed alternative that adds a nutty flavor.
Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb option that keeps the dish light and healthy.

Pro Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

1. Don’t Overcook the Shrimp

Shrimp cook very quickly—usually in just a few minutes. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough, so keep an eye on them and remove them from the heat as soon as they turn pink and opaque.

2. Use Fresh Garlic for the Best Flavor

While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic gives the sauce a deep, rich flavor that really makes this dish shine.

3. Balance the Sauce with Lemon Juice

The butter and garlic provide richness, while the lemon juice cuts through with acidity, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Don’t skip it!

4. Toast the Spices for Depth of Flavor

Cooking the paprika and Italian seasoning in butter for a few seconds before adding the shrimp helps release their aromas and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

FAQs About Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! If using frozen shrimp, be sure to thaw them first. The best way to do this is by placing them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes until fully defrosted. Pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

2. What’s the best type of shrimp to use?

Medium to large shrimp (peeled and deveined) work best for this recipe. If using pre-cooked shrimp, reduce the cooking time and simply warm them in the sauce.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to cook, just sauté the shrimp and broccoli, then add the pre-made sauce.

4. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of vegetable stock or butter to maintain moisture. Avoid microwaving, as shrimp can become rubbery.

5. Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free hot sauce and vegetable stock.

6. Can I use a different oil instead of butter?

Absolutely. While butter adds a rich flavor, you can substitute it with:

Olive oil for a lighter option.
Ghee for a more buttery taste with fewer dairy solids.
Avocado oil for a neutral, high-heat cooking alternative.

Final Thoughts: A Simple Yet Elegant Dish Worth Trying

There’s a reason why this Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli recipe is a favorite—it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests, this dish delivers on all fronts.

With its perfect balance of garlic, butter, citrus, and spice, every bite is bursting with rich and vibrant flavors. Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, whether you want to add more heat, swap the protein, or pair it with your favorite grains.

So, the next time you’re craving something that’s both healthy and indulgent, skip the takeout and make this instead. It’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again!