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Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Broccoli

A rich and savory skillet meal featuring tender shrimp, crisp broccoli, and a silky garlic cream sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Comfort
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

For the shrimp and sauce
  • 1 lb Shrimp, peeled and deveined Use medium or large shrimp; frozen-thawed works if drained thoroughly.
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Use unsalted butter for better salt control; olive oil substitutes for a lighter profile.
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced Fresh minced garlic yields the best aroma; garlic paste works in a pinch.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce, or coconut milk for dairy-free adaptation.
  • To taste Salt and pepper Season gradually and taste; finishing salt enhances flavor balance.
  • For serving Pasta, zoodles, or rice Zoodles pair well for low-carb options.
For the broccoli
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets Trim into bite-sized pieces; cauliflower makes a firmer alternative with milder taste.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it foams and becomes aromatic.
  2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, stirring constantly for about one minute.
Cooking
  1. Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook until they turn pink and opaque, approximately three to four minutes.
  2. Stir in the broccoli and pour in the heavy cream, combining gently to coat each piece evenly.
  3. Cook until the broccoli is tender and the sauce thickens, about five minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serving
  1. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then remove from heat and rest briefly before serving.
  2. Serve over pasta, zoodles, or rice, and garnish if desired with parsley, lemon zest, or grated parmesan.

Notes

Follow chef tips: Pat shrimp dry before cooking, use medium heat, and avoid overcrowding the pan. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.