Introduction to Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
As a busy mom and passionate home cook, I know how challenging it can be to whip up a satisfying meal after a long day. That’s where my Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice shines! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but is also quick to prepare, making it the perfect solution for hectic weeknights. Imagine succulent shrimp sautéed in rich garlic butter, served over tender broccoli rice. It’s a delightful way to impress loved ones while keeping it healthy and light. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become a favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
This Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is a winner for so many reasons! First off, it comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. Each bite is a symphony of flavors—the rich garlic butter mingles beautifully with tender shrimp and veggie rice. Plus, it’s a healthy dish that keeps you satisfied without heavy carbs. What’s not to love? It’s like a warm hug on a plate!
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
Let’s get to the good stuff—what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice! Below you’ll find a collection of vibrant ingredients that come together beautifully.
- Large shrimp: Opt for peeled and deveined shrimp for ease. Fresh or frozen both work well here.
- Olive oil: A staple in my kitchen! This oil adds a rich base for sautéing and brings out the flavors.
- Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is the star. It’s what gives this dish its incredible aroma and flavor. Use more if you’re a garlic lover like me!
- Unsalted butter: The buttery richness is what makes it feel indulgent without being too heavy. It adds depth to the sauce.
- Red pepper flakes: This is optional, but a pinch can add a delightful kick. A great way to spice things up!
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and elevating all the flavors in your dish.
- Fresh parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish brightens everything up and adds a pop of color!
- Lemon juice: Also optional, but a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish and balances out the richness.
- Broccoli florets: Fresh or frozen broccoli works beautifully. This gives us that lovely veggie rice texture.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Want to make it even more decadent? Stir in some Parmesan for a cheese lover’s twist!
For exact quantities of each ingredient, check the bottom of this article where they are available for printing. Happy cooking!
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
Now that we’ve gathered all our lovely ingredients, let’s dive into the steps needed to create this delightful Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice. Each step is simple and rewarding, allowing you to bring a little magic to your table. So, let’s get cooking!
Step 1: Process the Broccoli
If you’re using fresh broccoli, start by chopping the florets into smaller pieces.
Then, place them in a food processor.
Give it a few pulses until it resembles rice-sized grains.
If frozen broccoli is your go-to, just thaw and chop until it’s in nice bite-sized bits.
Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Rice
Next up, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it’s wonderfully fragrant.
Toss in your freshly processed broccoli rice, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for about 5 to 7 minutes.
You want the broccoli to be tender. If you’re feeling fancy, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor during the last minute.
Keep this warm while we focus on the shrimp.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In a separate large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning them with salt and pepper to your liking.
Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.
It’s like a color change magic show!
Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Without cleaning the skillet, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic to the same pan.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, which allows the garlic to turn golden brown and fragrant.
If you love a little heat, toss in red pepper flakes at this point.
You’re building up that rich flavor!
Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce
Return the sautéed shrimp to the skillet with your luscious garlic butter sauce.
Gently toss the shrimp to ensure each piece gets well-coated in that dreamy sauce.
If you want a zing, add a squeeze of lemon juice and stir everything to combine.
Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm them through.
Step 6: Assemble the Dish
Now, it’s time to bring this beauty together!
Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and pile on the garlic butter shrimp.
Don’t forget to drizzle any leftover sauce on top—trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Step 7: Serve
Enjoy immediately!
Serve with extra lemon wedges if you like, allowing everyone to customize their flavor adventure.
It’s a simple yet stunning meal that is sure to impress!
Tips for Success
- Be sure your shrimp are fully cooked; they should be pink and opaque.
- If using frozen broccoli, make sure it’s thawed well for even cooking.
- Don’t skimp on the garlic; it’s essential for flavor!
- For a creamier texture, mix in more Parmesan cheese to the broccoli rice.
- Meal prep this dish by prepping ingredients in advance for easy cooking.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet: Essential for cooking shrimp and sauce. A non-stick option makes cleanup a breeze.
- Food processor: Perfect for creating broccoli rice. If you don’t have one, a sharp knife works just as well.
- Cutting board: A must-have for chopping ingredients.
- Chef’s knife: Your best friend in the kitchen for slicing and dicing!
Variations on Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
- Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Increase red pepper flakes for a fiery kick that’ll set your taste buds dancing!
- Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk to the sauce for a rich, creamy experience.
- Vegetarian Option: Swap shrimp for pan-seared tofu or chickpeas. The garlic butter sauce still works wonders!
- Cauliflower Rice: For a lower-carb alternative, replace broccoli rice with cauliflower rice. It’s light and complements the dish beautifully.
- Herb-Infused:** Add a mix of fresh herbs like basil or cilantro to elevate the flavor profile. A twist that adds a punch!
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
- Pair this dish with a light, crisp salad—think mixed greens tossed with a lemon vinaigrette.
- A glass of chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully.
- Presentation tip: Serve on a colorful plate for visual appeal, and garnish with extra parsley for that fresh touch!
- Consider crusty bread on the side to soak up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
FAQs about Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. This can save you a step and a bit of time on busy evenings!
How can I make this dish spicier?
If you’re a fan of heat, feel free to add more red pepper flakes. You can also toss in a dash of hot sauce when mixing the shrimp with the garlic butter sauce for additional warmth.
Can I substitute the broccoli rice with another vegetable?
Yes! While broccoli rice makes this dish light and nutritious, you can use cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option or even zucchini noodles for a tasty twist!
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! You can prep the broccoli rice and shrimp in advance. Just store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge, and they’ll be fresh for a few days. Heat them up, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
What should I serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice?
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or some crusty bread to soak up the garlic butter sauce. A chilled glass of white wine also elevates the dining experience!
Final Thoughts
There’s a unique joy in creating a meal that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also nourishes the soul. My Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice does just that. It’s quick, effortless, and bursting with flavor, making it the perfect dish for any busy mom or professional. Whether it’s a family gathering or a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe brings everyone together. So, grab your apron, embrace the kitchen, and let this delightful dish be your new culinary adventure. You’ll savor every bite, and your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Print
Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is Delicious!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delectable combination of garlic butter shrimp served over tender broccoli rice.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- 4 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Process the Broccoli: If using fresh broccoli, chop the florets into smaller pieces. Pulse the broccoli florets in a food processor until it resembles rice-sized grains. If using frozen broccoli, simply thaw and chop into small pieces.
- Cook the Broccoli Rice: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Add the broccoli rice, season with salt and pepper, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the broccoli is tender and cooked through. If desired, stir in Parmesan cheese for added flavor. Keep warm while you prepare the shrimp.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a separate large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
- Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant and golden brown. If using, add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
- Combine Shrimp and Sauce: Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet with the garlic butter sauce. Toss the shrimp in the sauce, coating them well. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, until the shrimp are fully coated in the buttery garlic sauce.
- Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately, and serve with additional lemon wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- This dish can be made with frozen shrimp; just thaw before cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
