If you are looking for a vibrant, flavorful meal that feels both comforting and fresh, this Garlic Butter Shrimp with Broccoli Rice is exactly what you need. Packed with tender shrimp tossed in a luscious garlic butter sauce paired beautifully with light and nutritious broccoli rice, this dish comes together quickly but tastes like you’ve spent hours in the kitchen. Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp for an impressive and satisfying plate that will quickly become a family favorite or your go-to weeknight dinner.

Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple ingredients are key to creating an unforgettable balance of flavors and textures, with each playing a vital role—from the savory and succulent shrimp to the fresh and wholesome broccoli rice that adds a wonderful pop of color and nutrients.

Shrimp: Use large, peeled, and deveined shrimp for quick cooking and tender bites packed with protein.
Olive oil: Provides a light, fruity base for sautéing without overpowering other flavors.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is essential for that unmistakable aroma and rich flavor that ties the dish together.
Unsalted butter: Adds luscious creaminess and helps carry the garlic’s flavor beautifully across the shrimp.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little heat, this adds a subtle kick that elevates the dish.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that bring all the ingredients into perfect harmony.
Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of vibrant green and a fresh, herbal note as a garnish.
Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze of lemon brightens the richness of the butter and garlic with a refreshing zing.
Broccoli florets: Either fresh or frozen, broccoli forms the delightful, nutritious rice substitute.
Grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Sprinkled into the broccoli rice for a creamy, savory depth that complements the shrimp.

How to Make Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp

Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli Rice

Start by prepping your broccoli. Whether fresh or frozen, chopping the broccoli into rice-sized pieces is crucial for creating that perfect texture. Using a food processor makes this task quick and even, turning vibrant green florets into tiny, rice-like grains bursting with nutrients.

Step 2: Cook the Broccoli Rice

Next, heat olive oil in a pan and sauté the minced garlic just until fragrant—this quick step develops the foundation of flavor without overpowering the broccoli’s fresh taste. Adding and seasoning the broccoli rice lets it cook through while absorbing those delicious garlicky notes. Stirring in Parmesan cheese at this point adds a creamy, savory layer to this healthy side.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

While the broccoli rice finishes, heat olive oil in another skillet and season your shrimp with salt and pepper. Quick cooking here is key to keeping the shrimp succulent and tender—just a few minutes each side until they turn pink and opaque is perfect. Removing them from the pan at the right moment ensures they don’t overcook and become rubbery.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and gently cook minced garlic until it becomes golden and aromatic. For those craving a subtle spicy twist, stirring in a pinch of red pepper flakes during this step will add a gorgeous smoky warmth that complements the dish wonderfully.

Step 5: Combine Shrimp and Sauce

Return the cooked shrimp to the pan, tossing them thoroughly in that intoxicating garlic butter sauce. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice at this point brings a final zesty brightness that balances the richness perfectly. Let the shrimp soak in the sauce for another couple of minutes to meld all those flavors together beautifully.

Step 6: Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp

This is the moment it all comes together! Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp for a gorgeous, inviting presentation. Garnish with chopped parsley to add a fresh and colorful touch that will delight both the eyes and the palate.

How to Serve Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp

Garnishes

Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of herbal freshness that cuts through the richness and brings balance. If you love a bright citrus note, lemon wedges on the side offer a customizable zing for each bite, encouraging your guests to add as much or as little as they like.

Side Dishes

This dish is a complete meal on its own, but if you’re serving company or want to bulk it up a bit, a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread make excellent companions. The freshness of a simple salad contrasts deliciously with the buttery shrimp, while garlic bread lets you soak up every last bit of that flavorful sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a touch of elegance, try serving the broccoli rice molded into small rings or domes on the plate before topping with shrimp. You could also lay the shrimp around a central mound of broccoli rice for a stunning visual appeal. Another idea is scooping the assembled dish into warm lettuce cups for a fun and fresh handheld option that’s sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying this savory dish, simply store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best eaten within 2 to 3 days to maintain freshness and texture, especially for the shrimp which can become rubbery if kept too long.

Freezing

While broccoli rice and shrimp don’t always freeze perfectly, you can freeze the broccoli rice on its own for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight and quickly sauté to refresh. Shrimp is best cooked fresh but can be frozen raw and thawed before cooking for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking the shrimp. Adding a small splash of olive oil or butter while warming will help keep everything moist and flavorful. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve texture and taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just be sure to thaw them fully before cooking and pat them dry to prevent excess moisture, which can interfere with sautéing and browning.

Is broccoli rice really a good substitute for regular rice?

Yes, broccoli rice is a fantastic low-carb, nutrient-rich alternative that adds freshness and fiber while keeping the dish light without sacrificing heartiness.

Can I make this dish spicy?

Definitely! Including the optional red pepper flakes in the garlic butter sauce is a simple way to add heat, or you can sprinkle some chili powder over the shrimp before cooking for more spice.

What if I don’t have a food processor for the broccoli rice?

No worries! You can finely chop the broccoli florets with a knife until they resemble rice-sized pieces. It might take a little more time, but the end result will be just as delicious.

How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery?

The key is to cook shrimp quickly over medium-high heat and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque. Overcooking causes them to lose tenderness.

Final Thoughts

Trust me, once you try to Assemble: Spoon the broccoli rice onto serving plates and top with the garlic butter shrimp, this dish will quickly become one you turn to again and again. It’s vibrant, full of flavor, and surprisingly simple to make—all while feeling a little special. Give it a shot and enjoy the perfect harmony of healthy freshness and indulgent garlic butter goodness in every bite!