When it comes to quick, flavorful dinners that don’t compromise on freshness, the Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet stands out. This one-pan wonder perfectly balances succulent shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a lively burst of zesty lemon and garlic. Among the most loved Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes, it delivers both comfort and nutrition without requiring hours in the kitchen. In this article, we’ll explore the origin of this dish, step-by-step instructions, creative twists like Spicy Shrimp And Broccoli and Baked Shrimp And Broccoli, plus practical cooking tips and FAQs to help you master this effortless, crowd-pleasing meal.
A Family Favorite Born Out of Busy Weeknights
The Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet was born on a hectic Wednesday evening when time was short, hunger was high, and creativity had to kick in. Like many families, we needed something fresh, flavorful, and fast—without resorting to takeout. The shrimp in the freezer and a head of broccoli in the crisper became the base for what is now one of our most-requested dinners.
That night, a quick sauté of garlic in olive oil, followed by juicy shrimp and bright green broccoli florets, turned into a revelation. The squeeze of lemon at the end added a citrusy lift that made it taste restaurant-worthy—all in less than 20 minutes. It was proof that Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes don’t have to be plain or predictable.
What makes this meal special is its versatility. It fits seamlessly into both an energizing weeknight rotation and a weekend dinner lineup. The recipe evolved through trial and error, adjusting the garlic intensity, balancing the lemon juice, and making sure the broccoli stayed crisp rather than mushy. Now, it’s a go-to classic that promises big flavor with minimal fuss—exactly what busy families and health-conscious cooks crave.
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Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This one-pan skillet combines succulent shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a bright garlic lemon sauce for a quick and healthy dinner. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Ingredients
Instructions
1. Pat shrimp dry and season with salt and pepper
2. Wash and cut broccoli into bite-sized florets
3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat
4. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove from skillet
5. Add garlic to the skillet and sauté for 20–30 seconds until fragrant
6. Return broccoli and shrimp to the skillet and toss to combine
7. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, butter, and chili flakes if using
8. Adjust seasoning and serve immediately
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: main course
- Method: skillet
- Cuisine: american
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 16
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 10
- Fiber: 4
- Protein: 28
- Cholesterol: 220
Keywords: garlic lemon shrimp, shrimp broccoli skillet, easy shrimp recipe, healthy weeknight meal, one pan dinner, skillet shrimp, lemon garlic broccoli
Why the Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet Works Every Time
At its core, this dish is a celebration of balance. The buttery aroma of sautéed garlic mingles with the tart brightness of lemon, creating a light yet deeply satisfying sauce that coats each shrimp and broccoli bite. It’s a prime example of why Healthy Shrimp Broccoli Recipes are among the easiest ways to eat well without overcomplicating dinner.
Cooking everything in a single skillet enhances these flavors, locking in moisture while keeping cleanup simple. Shrimp cook quickly—an ideal protein for those nights when every minute counts—and broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and a wealth of nutrients. Whether you cook for one or serve a family of four, the Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet consistently delivers fresh flavor, lean protein, and a touch of zesty comfort that feels like a win every time.
Ingredients, Tools & Step-by-Step Cooking
Ingredients & Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
Every great dish begins with simple, quality ingredients—and this Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet is no exception. You’ll need only a handful of pantry staples and some fresh produce to create restaurant-worthy results in under half an hour.
- Large shrimp (1 lb / 450 g) – peeled and deveined; fresh or frozen works.
- Broccoli florets (3 cups / 300 g) – fresh is best for crisp texture, but frozen florets can be used if thawed first.
- Garlic (4 cloves) – minced for that fragrant, savory depth.
- Lemon (1 large) – you’ll use both the zest and juice for brightness.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp) – for rich flavor and a smooth sauté.
- Salt and pepper (to taste) – adjust seasoning as you go.
- Butter (1 tbsp) – adds a silky, balanced finish to the sauce.
Optional Add-ins for Flavor Twists:
- Chili flakes or sriracha – to transform this into a satisfying Spicy Shrimp And Broccoli version.
- Shrimp And Broccoli Pesto – stir in a spoonful near the end for an herby, nutty profile.
- Grated Parmesan or lemon zest curls – optional garnishes for added zest and aroma.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp | 1 lb (450 g) | Peeled, deveined |
| Broccoli florets | 3 cups (300 g) | Fresh or thawed |
| Garlic | 4 cloves | Minced |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Lemon | 1 large | Zest + juice |
| Butter | 1 tbsp | For finishing |
| Salt & pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning |
| Optional chili flakes | ½ tsp | For spiciness |
| Shrimp And Broccoli Pesto | 1 tbsp | Optional variation |
Helpful Tools: a 12-inch nonstick skillet, tongs, lemon zester, spatula, measuring spoons, and a mixing bowl. A large skillet allows shrimp and broccoli to sear evenly without steaming each other—a key to success in Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes.
Step-by-Step Cooking Method
- Prep the ingredients: Pat shrimp dry, cut broccoli into florets, mince garlic, and zest/juice lemon.
- Blanch broccoli (optional): Boil florets for 1½ minutes, then cool in ice water and drain.
- Heat the skillet: Warm olive oil on medium-high and sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side. Remove to a plate.
- Sauté garlic: Reduce heat. Add garlic and cook 20–30 seconds until fragrant.
- Combine: Add broccoli, then return shrimp. Stir gently.
- Add lemon and butter: Stir in lemon juice, zest, and butter. For spice, add chili flakes; for aroma, add pesto.
- Taste and serve: Adjust seasoning and serve straight from the skillet while hot.
This approach keeps shrimp juicy and broccoli crisp. A clean, bright sauce ties it all together—making it one of the most satisfying Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes.
Flavor Twists, Serving Ideas & Nutrition Perks
Delicious Variations to Try Tonight
The beauty of the Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet is its adaptability. Once you’ve mastered the base, you can create endless variations using similar ingredients and techniques.
- Baked Shrimp And Broccoli: Toss everything with olive oil, garlic, and lemon, roast at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes. Enjoy caramelized broccoli and tender shrimp that fit perfectly into Healthy Shrimp Broccoli Recipes.
- Chicken Shrimp Broccoli Recipes: Add sliced chicken breast for extra protein. Sear chicken first, then finish with shrimp and broccoli for a hearty, restaurant-style meal.
- Shrimp Potatoes And Broccoli: Add roasted baby potatoes for a filling, post-workout dinner. This hearty version highlights why Shrimp Potatoes And Broccoli is a family favorite.
Each version preserves the trademark trifecta of garlic, lemon, and green freshness—showcasing how easy it is to tailor this meal without losing its bright and refreshing essence.
Nutrition and Serving Suggestions
Healthy Shrimp Broccoli Recipes like this one are packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber. Shrimp bring lean protein and minerals, broccoli contributes antioxidants, and olive oil provides heart-friendly fats. Together they deliver satisfying fuel for balanced meals.
| Nutrient | Amount per serving | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | ~310 kcal | Light yet satisfying |
| Protein | 28 g | From shrimp |
| Carbohydrates | 10 g | Mostly from broccoli |
| Fat | 16 g | Healthy fats from olive oil & butter |
| Fiber | 4 g | Supports digestion |
| Vitamin C | 80% DV | From broccoli & lemon |
For serving, consider jasmine rice, quinoa, or whole-grain pasta to soak up the garlicky lemon sauce. Low-carb eaters can serve it over cauliflower rice or spinach, and a crusty baguette or fresh salad makes a simple finishing touch. This vibrant, nourishing meal proves that healthy doesn’t have to mean bland.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes. Thaw frozen shrimp under cool running water for 4–5 minutes, then pat dry before cooking. This ensures proper searing in your skillet, a hallmark of Easy Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes.
What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp?
Light blanching or quick steaming keeps it crunchy. Cool it immediately in ice water and finish it in the skillet just long enough to warm through, retaining that perfect texture every Healthy Shrimp Broccoli Recipe deserves.
Can I bake it instead of using a skillet?
Absolutely. The Baked Shrimp And Broccoli variation cooks in one pan at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes, yielding tender shrimp and caramelized broccoli with minimal effort.
How do I make it spicier?
Mix in chili flakes, cayenne, or sriracha during the final toss for a lively Spicy Shrimp And Broccoli edge—start mild and build to taste for the perfect kick.
What sides go best with this dish?
It pairs beautifully with quinoa, rice, whole-grain pasta, or even a fresh green salad and bread to scoop up the citrusy-garlic sauce.
Bringing It All Together – Your New Go-To Skillet Meal
The Garlic Lemon Shrimp & Broccoli Skillet embodies everything we crave in modern cooking: simplicity, nutrition, and vibrant flavor. With minimal ingredients and one pan, it delivers a zesty, balanced dinner that’s fast enough for weeknights yet elegant enough for guests.
Whether you stick with the stovetop version, add a spicy twist, or try the easy oven-baked route, this recipe guarantees bright, fresh flavor every time. Once you experience how effortlessly it comes together, this one-pan wonder will become your ultimate weeknight favorite—proof that delicious, wholesome meals can always be quick, easy, and unforgettable.
