Are you ready for a quick and easy dinner that packs a flavorful punch? My Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli Delight is just what you need! In this guide, I'll show you how to make a delicious one-pan meal that combines juicy shrimp with crisp broccoli, all drenched in a savory garlic butter sauce. Let's dive into this mouthwatering recipe that will make dinner fun and stress-free!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cups broccoli florets
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
Flavoring Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Garnishes and Serving Suggestions
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
When I make Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli, I always use fresh ingredients. The shrimp must be large, peeled, and deveined for the best taste. The broccoli florets add color and crunch. The butter, melted, brings all the flavors together.
The garlic is key. I use four cloves, minced finely. It adds a wonderful aroma. Lemon juice gives a nice zing and balances the richness of the butter. Smoked paprika adds warmth and depth. Onion powder, salt, and black pepper round out the flavor profile.
For garnish, I love using fresh parsley. It adds a pop of color and freshness. Lemon wedges are great for serving. They brighten the dish and enhance the taste of the shrimp.
With these ingredients, you can create a simple yet delicious meal. The best part? It all cooks on one pan, making cleanup easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Pan
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
Start by heating your oven. This step ensures that the shrimp and broccoli cook evenly. Lining the pan with parchment paper makes cleanup so easy later. You will love this simple trick.
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
- Combine melted butter and seasonings.
In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth. This mixture brings rich flavor to your dish, balancing garlic and lemon perfectly.
Assembling the Dish
- Arrange broccoli and shrimp on the sheet pan.
- Drizzle with garlic butter mixture and toss.
Place the broccoli florets on one side of the pan. Pour half of the garlic butter sauce over them. Toss gently to coat. Next, lay the shrimp on the other side. Drizzle the remaining sauce over the shrimp and toss to coat. This step ensures every piece gets flavor.
Baking the Dish
- Bake for 12-15 minutes and check for doneness.
Put the sheet pan in the oven. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Check if the shrimp are pink and opaque. The broccoli should be tender and slightly crispy. This is a quick and easy way to make a full meal.
Final Touches
- Garnish with parsley and serve with lemon.
Once done, take the pan out of the oven. Sprinkle chopped parsley over both the shrimp and broccoli. Serve with lemon wedges on the side. The lemon adds a fresh kick that brightens the dish. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Best Practices for Cooking Shrimp
How to tell when shrimp is done
Shrimp cook fast. Look for a pink hue and firm texture. When the shrimp curl into a C shape, they are ready.
Avoiding overcooking
Overcooked shrimp become rubbery. Keep an eye on cooking time. Aim for 12-15 minutes in the oven. Check them at the 10-minute mark to be safe.
Flavor Enhancements
Adding spices or herbs for extra flavor
Want a flavor boost? Try adding red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil or thyme also work well. They add freshness to the dish.
Recommended side dishes
Pair this dish with rice or quinoa. A light salad goes well too. These sides balance the richness of the garlic butter.
Cleanup Tips
Using parchment paper for easy cleanup
Line your sheet pan with parchment paper. It makes cleanup a breeze. Just toss it away after cooking. Less scrubbing means more time to enjoy your meal.
Dishwashing tips to save time
Soak your pan while you eat. This helps loosen stuck bits. Use hot soapy water for quick cleaning. If you have a dishwasher, make sure to load it right after.
Variations
Vegetable Alternatives
You can change up the veggies in this dish. Try adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. They all cook nicely with the shrimp. Seasonal veggies work great too! In spring, use asparagus. In fall, toss in Brussels sprouts. Each choice brings a new taste to your meal.
Protein Swaps
If you prefer, swap shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken thighs add a juicy bite while tofu gives a nice texture. When using chicken, cook it longer. Aim for 20-25 minutes until it's fully cooked. If using tofu, bake it for 15 minutes. Adjust the time for each protein to ensure your meal is perfect.
Flavor Twists
Want a kick? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. You can also try different marinades. A honey soy sauce mix can bring a sweet touch. Or go for a spicy sriracha blend. Each twist will change the flavor and make this dish your own.
Storage Info
Refrigeration
To store your leftovers, let them cool first. Place the shrimp and broccoli in a shallow container. Cover the container tightly with a lid or wrap it well with plastic wrap. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. I recommend using glass or BPA-free plastic containers. These are safe and easy to clean.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze this dish, let it cool completely. Then, place the shrimp and broccoli in a freezer-safe container or bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot. You can also use a microwave, but the oven keeps the shrimp from getting rubbery.
Shelf Life
In the fridge, this dish will last about three days. If you freeze it, it can stay good for up to three months. Just remember that the longer it sits, the more the texture and flavor may change. Enjoy it fresh for the best taste!
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep this dish ahead. Chop the broccoli and keep it in the fridge. Mix the garlic butter sauce and store it in a sealed container. You can season the shrimp and store it separately. This way, you save time on busy nights. Just combine everything when you are ready to bake.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is gluten-free. All the ingredients listed are safe for those with gluten sensitivity. Just ensure your butter does not contain any additives. Always check labels when buying pre-made items. This helps avoid any hidden gluten.
What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp and broccoli?
This dish pairs well with rice or quinoa. You could also serve it with a light salad. Garlic bread is a tasty option too. For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water works great. These options balance the rich flavors of the shrimp.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. This helps them cook evenly. You can place them in cold water for about 15 minutes. After thawing, pat them dry before seasoning. This keeps the shrimp from becoming watery.
This blog post laid out the simple steps to make garlic butter shrimp and broccoli. We covered key ingredients, including shrimp, broccoli, and seasonings. I shared easy instructions on cooking and tips for success. Remember, you can swap proteins or veggies based on your taste. Store leftovers correctly for best freshness. With this dish, you can enjoy a tasty meal packed with flavor. Ready to try this quick and wholesome recipe? You won't regret it!
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