Print

Quick Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Stir-Fry

quick garlic butter shrimp and broccoli stir-fry - featured image

A quick and easy 15-minute dinner featuring tender shrimp and crisp broccoli tossed in a savory garlic butter sauce with a fresh lemon finish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound peeled and deveined medium shrimp
  • 3 cups fresh broccoli florets, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, room temperature
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Juice of half a fresh lemon
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

  1. Rinse and cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets. Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Mince the garlic finely and squeeze fresh lemon juice.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add broccoli florets and a pinch of salt. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes until broccoli is bright green and just tender but still crisp. Remove broccoli from pan and set aside.
  3. Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and red pepper flakes if using. Stir constantly until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  4. Add shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and black pepper. Cook undisturbed for 1-2 minutes until pink on one side, then flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until opaque and slightly firm.
  5. Return broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat shrimp and broccoli in garlic butter sauce. Pour fresh lemon juice over the top and stir. Adjust seasoning as needed.
  6. Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan to ensure shrimp sear properly. Stir garlic constantly to prevent burning. Use fresh shrimp for best flavor and texture. If pan dries out before finishing, add a splash of water or broth. For dairy-free, substitute butter with vegan butter or coconut oil. Fresh lemon juice added at the end brightens the dish.

Nutrition

Keywords: garlic butter shrimp, broccoli stir-fry, quick dinner, easy shrimp recipe, healthy shrimp stir-fry, 15-minute meal, weeknight dinner