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