Are you ready to indulge in a quick and tasty meal? Our Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli Delight makes dinner fun and easy! With just a few fresh ingredients and a simple method, you can create a dish that’s bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, this one-pan recipe combines succulent shrimp and vibrant broccoli, all smothered in rich garlic butter. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
Flavor Enhancers
– 6 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Seasoning and Garnishing
– Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped
Gather these simple ingredients for an easy yet tasty meal. Start with large shrimp that are cleaned. This makes cooking quick and simple. Fresh broccoli adds color and crunch to your dish. Unsalted butter is best for controlling salt levels. You can adjust the flavor with garlic, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes.
Garlic brings a rich taste, while lemon juice adds brightness. Adjust the red pepper flakes based on your spice level. You can leave them out for a milder dish. After seasoning, sprinkle salt and black pepper to enhance the flavors.
Don’t forget the fresh parsley! It adds a lovely touch when you serve the dish. The combination of these ingredients will create a meal that is both delightful and satisfying.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat the Oven
– Set the temperature to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare the sheet pan with parchment paper. This helps with cleanup and keeps food from sticking.
Prepare Garlic Butter
– Melt the butter gently in a small saucepan over low heat.
– Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it burn.
Combine Ingredients
– Coat broccoli with half of the garlic butter. Toss it well so the florets are covered.
– Toss the shrimp in the remaining garlic butter. Make sure each shrimp is coated nicely.
Bake and Garnish
– Bake for 10-12 minutes until the shrimp are pink and the broccoli is tender.
– Add fresh parsley for garnish before serving. This adds a nice pop of color.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Garlic Butter
To make great garlic butter, start with low heat. This prevents garlic from burning. If garlic burns, it turns bitter. I use six cloves for a strong flavor, but you can adjust this. If you prefer a milder taste, try using less garlic.
Getting the Right Shrimp Texture
Timing is key for perfect shrimp. Bake them for about 10-12 minutes. They should turn pink and opaque when done. For size, large shrimp work best. They cook evenly and stay juicy. If you use smaller shrimp, check them sooner to avoid overcooking.
Broccoli Cooking Tips
To keep broccoli vibrant, do not overcook it. It should be tender yet bright green. If you like, you can try other vegetables. Carrots, asparagus, or bell peppers make great alternatives. Just cut them into similar sizes for even cooking.
Variations
Alternative Proteins
You can swap shrimp for other proteins. Chicken works well in this dish. Use bite-sized pieces of chicken breast. Cook it the same way as shrimp. Fish is another option. Choose a firm fish like salmon or cod. Cut it into chunks and follow the same method.
If you prefer vegetarian options, try tofu or chickpeas. For tofu, use firm or extra-firm tofu. Cut it into cubes and press to remove excess water. For chickpeas, use canned ones for quick prep. Rinse and drain them before adding to the pan.
Flavor Variations
You can change the flavor by adding fresh herbs. Thyme and basil add a nice touch. Chop them finely and mix them in with the garlic butter. This gives your dish a fresh taste.
You may also want to experiment with spices. Try paprika for a smoky flavor. Cumin adds warmth and earthiness. Just a pinch can change the whole dish. Have fun and explore what you like!
Heat Levels
To control the heat, adjust the red pepper flakes. If you like it mild, use less. For more spice, add more flakes. This lets you make the dish just right for your taste.
You can also try different peppers. Jalapeños or serranos add a nice kick. Chop them finely and mix them in. They give a fresh heat that enhances the dish.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Tips
To store leftovers of your sheet-pan garlic butter shrimp and broccoli, wait until it cools. Place it in an airtight container. This keeps your meal fresh for up to three days. Avoid letting it sit out too long. Bacteria can grow quickly at room temperature.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, you can use either the oven or the microwave. For the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp and broccoli on a baking sheet. Cover with foil to keep moisture in. Heat for about 10 minutes. In the microwave, use a microwave-safe dish. Heat in 30-second intervals to avoid overcooking. Stir in between to help it heat evenly.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Make sure the shrimp and broccoli are in a freezer-safe container. When you are ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently to maintain the flavors. Avoid refreezing once you thaw it. This helps keep your meal tasty and safe.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. It may change the cooking time. Frozen shrimp usually needs 2-3 extra minutes to cook through.
To thaw frozen shrimp, place it in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes. You can also leave it in the fridge overnight. Make sure to drain it well before cooking to avoid excess water.
How long can I store leftovers?
You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh.
Check for signs of spoilage, like an off smell or slimy texture. If it looks or smells bad, throw it away.
What can I serve with Sheet-Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp and Broccoli?
This dish is great on its own, but you can add sides. Consider serving with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. Garlic bread or a fresh salad also pairs well.
For a complete meal plan, add a light dessert, like fruit salad or sorbet, to finish your dinner.
This blog post shared a simple, tasty recipe for garlic butter shrimp and broccoli. You learned the main ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for cooking. I highlighted variations for different proteins and flavors. Proper storage and reheating tips were also included.
In conclusion, you can easily make this dish at home. Customize it to match your taste and make it your own. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making this meal a family favorite!
