Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli Delight

Looking for a quick and tasty dinner? Try my Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp Broccoli Delight! This dish combines juicy shrimp and fresh broccoli, all tossed in rich garlic butter. It’s simple to make and perfect for busy nights. Let’s explore easy ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and clever tips for a delicious meal ready in no time. Get your baking sheet ready; your new favorite recipe awaits!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 3 cups fresh broccoli florets
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, finely chopped for garnish
– Optional: red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Substitutions and Alternatives
If you can’t find large shrimp, try medium shrimp. They work well too. You can also swap the broccoli for green beans or asparagus. If you want a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead of butter. For a zesty twist, try lime juice in place of lemon juice.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this dish has about 250 calories. It packs a good amount of protein from the shrimp. Broccoli adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The butter gives you healthy fats, while the garlic adds flavor and health benefits. If you add red pepper flakes, it may boost metabolism too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps to cook everything evenly. A hot oven is key to making the shrimp and broccoli delicious.
Preparing the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until everything blends well. This mixture adds lots of flavors to your dish. The garlic and lemon will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Arranging Shrimp and Broccoli on the Sheet Pan
Take a large sheet pan and spread out the broccoli florets in one layer. Drizzle half of the garlic butter mixture over the broccoli. Use your hands or a spatula to toss and coat them well. Next, add the shrimp on top, spacing them out. Pour the rest of the garlic butter over the shrimp and toss gently to coat each piece.
Baking Instructions
Now, place the sheet pan in your preheated oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the shrimp turn pink and opaque. The broccoli should be cooked but still have a bit of crunch. When finished, carefully take the pan out and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top. This adds a nice touch of color and flavor just before serving.
Tips & Tricks
How to Achieve Perfectly Cooked Shrimp
To cook shrimp just right, pay close attention to time. Bake the shrimp for 12 to 15 minutes. Stop cooking when they turn pink and opaque. This shows that they are done. Overcooking makes shrimp tough. Use a timer to help you. If you have large shrimp, they may need a minute more. Keep an eye on them as they cook.
Enhancing Flavor with Additional Seasonings
You can boost the flavor with extra seasonings. Try adding lemon zest for a fresh taste. A pinch of cayenne adds heat without overpowering. Consider using fresh herbs like thyme or basil. They add depth to your dish. Season to your liking, but remember not to mask the garlic and butter. A little goes a long way in creating balanced flavors.
Presentation Suggestions
For a lovely presentation, serve right from the sheet pan. It adds a rustic charm. If you prefer, plate the shrimp and broccoli on individual dishes. Add lemon wedges for a zesty touch. A sprinkle of fresh parsley gives color and freshness. This small step makes your meal look gourmet. Enjoy the beauty of your dish as much as the taste!
Variations
Adding Other Vegetables
You can mix in other veggies for more flavor. Try adding bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas. These veggies cook well and add color to your dish. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them with the garlic butter. Keep an eye on the cooking time. Some veggies may need a minute more or less.
Spicy Version with Red Pepper Flakes
If you like spice, add red pepper flakes! They give a nice kick to the shrimp and broccoli. Start with a pinch and taste. You can always add more if you want it hotter. Mix them into the garlic butter before you drizzle it on. This way, the spice spreads throughout the dish.
Using Different Proteins
Want to switch up the protein? You can use chicken, tofu, or scallops instead of shrimp. Make sure to cut chicken into small pieces for even cooking. Adjust the baking time too. Chicken may take a bit longer, while tofu cooks quickly. Just ensure everything is cooked through for a tasty meal.
Storage Info
Best Practices for Storing Leftovers
To store leftovers from this dish, let it cool first. Place shrimp and broccoli in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. You can store it in the fridge for up to three days. Keep the dish away from strong-smelling foods to avoid flavor transfer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat, use the oven for best results. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the shrimp and broccoli on a baking sheet. Cover it with foil to prevent drying. Heat for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. You can also use a microwave. Just heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps heat evenly.
Freezing Tips
If you want to freeze this dish, do it within two days. Place shrimp and broccoli in a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date. You can freeze it for up to two months. To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them first. Place the shrimp in a bowl of cold water for about 15 minutes. This helps them thaw quickly and safely. If you use frozen shrimp, the cooking time may be slightly longer. Always check that they turn pink and opaque to know they are ready.
How do I know when shrimp are cooked?
Shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and opaque. They should curl into a “C” shape. If they form an “O” shape, they may be overcooked. Keep an eye on them as they cook. The total cooking time for shrimp is usually 12 to 15 minutes in the oven.
What to serve with Sheet Pan Garlic Butter Shrimp & Broccoli?
You can serve this dish with rice or quinoa for a hearty meal. A side salad also pairs well, adding freshness. Some enjoy crusty bread to soak up the delicious garlic butter. For a light touch, serve with lemon wedges for extra zest.
In this blog post, I covered ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You learned how to make garlic butter shrimp and broccoli easily. I shared ways to customize the dish with different veggies or proteins. I also gave advice on storing leftovers and reheating them.
Try this recipe for a simple meal full of flavor. Cooking can be fun and easy when you have the right steps. Enjoy your tasty dish!
