Creamy Garlic Shrimp Broccoli

This creamy garlic shrimp with broccoli has become my go-to dinner solution on busy weeknights when I need something delicious without the carb overload. The combination of succulent shrimp and tender broccoli in a garlicky cream sauce creates a restaurant-quality meal that takes just 15 minutes to prepare.

I first created this recipe when transitioning to a lower-carb lifestyle and craving something creamy yet light. What began as a quick experiment has turned into one of my most requested dishes when friends come over for dinner, even those who don't follow keto.

Ingredients

• Fresh shrimp: The star protein that cooks quickly and absorbs all the garlic flavor beautifully. Look for wild-caught when possible for the best taste.
• Broccoli florets: Provides essential fiber and nutrients while soaking up the creamy sauce. Choose bright green florets with firm stems.
• Cream cheese: Creates the rich base for our sauce without the need for flour thickeners. Full-fat works best for keto macros.
• Fresh garlic cloves: The aromatic heart of this dish. Fresh is non-negotiable here the pre-minced jarred variety simply won't provide the same punch.
• Olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that adds richness and helps prevent the garlic from burning.
• Fresh lemon juice: The acidity cuts through the richness and brightens all the flavors. Always use fresh over bottled.
• Ripe tomato: Adds color, subtle sweetness and a hint of acidity. Choose tomatoes that feel heavy for their size.
• Arugula: The peppery green adds complexity and nutrition. Look for fresh, unwilted leaves.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and thickens the sauce naturally. Use freshly grated for best melting.
• Fresh basil leaves: Brings a fragrant finish that elevates the entire dish. Choose vibrant green leaves with no brown spots.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Proteins and Vegetables:

Heat your pan to medium-high and add olive oil until it shimmers. Add shrimp and broccoli simultaneously, cooking for 3-4 minutes while stirring frequently. The shrimp should begin turning pink and the broccoli should brighten in color but remain slightly crisp. This simultaneous cooking ensures neither component overcooks.

Create the Aromatic Base:

Add the minced garlic and chopped tomato to the pan, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning. The fragrance should become immediately noticeable. Add lemon juice and crushed red pepper if using. The acid from the lemon will deglaze the pan, picking up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.

Develop the Creamy Sauce:

Add cream cheese in small pieces, allowing each to melt slightly before adding the next. Stir continuously to create a smooth sauce that coats the shrimp and broccoli evenly. The sauce will initially look broken but will come together as you stir. Let this cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish with Fresh Elements:

Turn off the heat and immediately add arugula and fresh basil. The residual heat will wilt these greens perfectly without destroying their fresh flavor. Stir in the Parmesan cheese which will further thicken the sauce. Finish with plenty of freshly ground black pepper and olives if using. Taste and add salt only if needed.

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The minced garlic is truly the soul of this recipe. I once tried to shortcut with garlic powder during a particularly hectic evening, and while the dish was still good, it lacked that distinctive depth that makes this recipe special. My husband immediately noticed the difference and gently suggested we always keep fresh garlic on hand for this particular meal.

Perfect Pairings

While this dish stands beautifully on its own, I sometimes serve it alongside a simple side salad with olive oil and vinegar dressing for extra volume. For non-keto guests, offering a side of crusty bread to soak up the incredible sauce works wonderfully. The dish pairs exceptionally well with a chilled glass of dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Grigio that complements the garlic and seafood flavors.

Storage and Reheating

This garlic shrimp with broccoli is best enjoyed immediately after cooking, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water or chicken broth to revitalize the sauce. Avoid microwaving as this can turn the shrimp rubbery and cause the sauce to separate. Freezing is not recommended as both the texture of the shrimp and integrity of the cream sauce will suffer.

Smart Substitutions

If shrimp isn't available or within budget, chunks of boneless chicken thighs work beautifully though they'll need a few extra minutes of cooking time. Cauliflower florets can replace broccoli for an even lower carb count. Dairy-free friends can substitute coconut cream for cream cheese, though the flavor profile will shift slightly toward the tropical. For those avoiding dairy completely, nutritional yeast can provide a cheese-like flavor in place of Parmesan.

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This recipe delivers incredible flavor in less than 15 minutes—perfect for any weeknight!

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use frozen shrimp for this dish?

Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure they sear properly rather than steam.

→ How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the cream cheese with coconut cream or dairy-free cream cheese alternatives, and replace the Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor profile.

→ Can I meal prep this garlic shrimp dish?

Yes! This dish reheats well for 2-3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave at medium power to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.

→ What can I serve with this shrimp and broccoli dish?

For a keto-friendly meal, serve over cauliflower rice or with a side of roasted vegetables. If not strictly following keto, it pairs wonderfully with regular rice, quinoa, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

→ Can I substitute broccoli with another vegetable?

Absolutely! Asparagus, zucchini, spinach, or cauliflower make excellent keto-friendly substitutes that will work well with the creamy garlic sauce and shrimp.

→ Is this dish spicy?

The recipe includes optional crushed pepper which adds a mild heat. You can adjust the spice level by omitting it completely for a non-spicy version or increasing the amount for more heat.