1-First Step: Prep everything before you turn on the stove Rinse and cut the broccoli into small florets if that has not been done already. Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat them dry with paper towels so they sear better and do not water down the pan. Mince the garlic and measure out the paprika, Italian seasoning, onion powder, broth, hot sauce, salt, and pepper. This recipe moves fast, so having everything ready makes the cooking process easier for home cooks, students, and busy parents. If you want to serve the shrimp broccoli skillet with rice, quinoa, or pasta, start those sides now or have them ready before the skillet is finished.

2-Second Step: Cook the broccoli until crisp-tender Set a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter and 1 tablespoon olive oil. Once the butter melts, add the broccoli florets and a small pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the broccoli turns bright green and begins to soften but still keeps a little bite. If the skillet seems dry, add a spoonful of vegetable broth to help the broccoli steam a little. This method keeps the broccoli tender but not mushy, which is key for a good garlic shrimp and broccoli skillet recipe.

3-Third Step: Build the garlic butter sauce Push the broccoli to the edges of the skillet or remove it to a plate if needed. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and the minced garlic. Stir for about 30 to 60 seconds, just until the garlic smells fragrant. Do not let it brown too much, since burnt garlic can taste bitter. Sprinkle in the paprika, Italian seasoning, and onion powder. Stir well so the spices blend into the butter and garlic. This is where the dish starts to smell like a true garlic butter shrimp with broccoli dinner.

4-Fourth Step: Add the shrimp and cook quickly Add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season with salt and pepper, then let them cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on the first side. Flip them and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque. Shrimp cook very fast, so watch closely to avoid a rubbery texture. As the shrimp cook, spoon some of the garlic butter over the top so they absorb even more flavor. If you like garlic shrimp with a little heat, this is also the time to add the tablespoon of hot sauce.

5-Fifth Step: Add broth and bring everything together Pour in the 1/4 cup vegetable broth and stir to loosen any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Those bits add flavor to the sauce, so scrape them gently with a spoon. Return the broccoli to the pan if you removed it earlier. Let everything simmer together for 1 to 2 minutes so the sauce thickens slightly and coats the shrimp broccoli mixture. Taste and adjust the salt, pepper, or hot sauce if needed. If you want a brighter finish, add a small squeeze of lemon juice.

6-Final Step: Garnish and serve Turn off the heat and sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or cilantro over the top. Serve the garlic butter shrimp with broccoli right away while the shrimp are still juicy and the broccoli is crisp-tender. This dish works well on its own for a low-carb meal or over rice, mashed potatoes, noodles, or cauliflower rice. If you need a quick family dinner, this skillet meal is ready to go in about 20 to 25 minutes from start to finish.