Craving a quick, healthy meal that truly delivers on flavor and satisfaction? Look no further than this incredible Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe. It’s a delightful dish that comes together in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy the convenience of a one-pan meal that’s both keto-friendly and packed with vibrant ingredients. This recipe offers a simple yet elegant solution for a nutritious dinner.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
This simple dish is truly a gift to your weekly menu, bringing both comfort and convenience right to your table.
- Lightning Fast: From start to finish, this meal is ready in under 15 minutes, perfect for your busiest evenings.
- Easy Cleanup: A single skillet means minimal dishes, giving you more time to enjoy your evening with family.
- Keto & Low Carb Friendly: It perfectly aligns with your dietary goals, keeping carbs low without sacrificing taste.
- Nutrient-Packed: Enjoy lean protein from shrimp and wholesome goodness from broccoli, all in one satisfying bowl. Research indicates that shrimp is a low-calorie, high-protein food that can be a healthy part of your diet.
- Creamy Garlic Flavor: The rich, savory sauce transforms simple ingredients into an irresistible culinary experience.
- Wonderfully Versatile: Easily adapt this Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe with your favorite veggies or protein swaps.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite healthy dinner. Each component plays a vital role in building the incredible flavors of this Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe.
- 1 cup broccoli florets: Fresh is ideal, but frozen works wonderfully for convenience.
- 1 cup shrimp: Choose peeled and deveined, whether fresh or frozen.
- 2 Tbsp cream cheese: Full-fat, softened to room temperature for a smooth sauce.
- 2-3 garlic cloves: Minced, for a burst of aromatic flavor.
- 1-2 tbsp olive oil: Or avocado oil, for sautéing and a healthy fat base.
- 1 Tbsp lemon juice: Freshly squeezed brightens every bite.
- 1 tomato: Chopped, such as cherry or Roma, for a touch of sweetness and acidity.
- 1/2 cup arugula: Fresh, packed, adds a peppery freshness at the end.
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a gentle warmth or a spicy kick.
- 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese: Grated, for a savory, umami finish.
- Black pepper: Lots of freshly ground pepper enhances the overall taste.
- Handful fresh basil: Chopped leaves, for an aromatic, herbaceous note.
- Olives (optional): Sliced, for a briny touch.
- Salt: To taste, if needed, after all other ingredients are combined.
Notes & Substitutions
Feel empowered to adapt this recipe to what you have on hand or to suit your family’s preferences.
- Shrimp: If using larger shrimp, you may need an extra minute or two of cooking time. Smaller shrimp cook faster.
- Broccoli: Cauliflower florets, asparagus spears, or green beans are excellent low carb alternatives. According to Healthline, broccoli offers numerous benefits, including reducing inflammation and improving blood sugar management.
- Cream Cheese: For a dairy-free option, use a high-quality dairy-free cream cheese alternative or a bit of full-fat coconut cream.
- Tomato: Sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil, drained and chopped) offer a deeper, more concentrated flavor profile.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley or cilantro can beautifully replace basil, offering different aromatic experiences.
- Add-ins: Boost your veggie intake by stirring in fresh spinach, sliced mushrooms, or even zucchini noodles during the last minute of cooking.
- Change Proteins: Swap out the shrimp for chicken breast pieces, tender scallops, or even firm white fish for a different protein experience.
Equipment
Gathering your tools before you start makes cooking flow smoothly and effortlessly.
- Large skillet or wok: Essential for even cooking and accommodating all ingredients.
- Cutting board: For safe and efficient preparation of your fresh vegetables and herbs.
- Sharp knife: A good knife ensures quick and precise chopping.
- Measuring spoons and cups: For accurate ingredient quantities, ensuring perfect flavor balance.
- Spatula or tongs: For stirring, flipping, and serving your delicious meal.
How To Make Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe
Creating this delightful Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is a joyful and straightforward process. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a heartwarming meal ready in no time. Remember, cooking is about connection, so take your time and enjoy each moment.
Step 1: Prepare All Ingredients
Begin by getting everything ready. If using frozen shrimp, thaw it completely under cold running water or overnight in the refrigerator, then gently pat it very dry with paper towels to ensure it browns nicely. Chop your broccoli into uniform, bite-sized florets so they cook evenly and quickly.
Dice your tomato into small pieces and mince your garlic cloves finely to release their maximum flavor. Finally, make sure your cream cheese is softened to room temperature; this helps it melt into a wonderfully smooth, creamy sauce. This prep work, known as mise en place, truly makes the cooking process effortless and enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté Shrimp and Broccoli
Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil in your large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the prepared shrimp and broccoli florets to the pan. Spread them out in a single layer if possible to promote even cooking.
Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently with a spatula or tongs. Watch for the shrimp to turn a lovely pink color and curl slightly, indicating they are cooked through. The broccoli should become tender-crisp, still holding a slight bite but no longer raw. Avoid overcooking the shrimp to keep it tender.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Now, add the minced garlic and chopped tomato to the pan with the shrimp and broccoli. Pour in the fresh lemon juice, which adds a bright counterpoint to the rich flavors. If you enjoy a little warmth, stir in the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Immediately add the softened cream cheese to the skillet.
Stir continuously until the cream cheese fully melts and blends into a smooth, luxurious sauce, coating all the ingredients beautifully. Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Finish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the heat to preserve the freshness of the final ingredients. Gently stir in the fresh arugula and chopped fresh basil; the residual heat will wilt them perfectly without overcooking. Top the entire dish generously with grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a wonderful depth of flavor and a touch of saltiness.
Season with plenty of freshly ground black pepper. If using, toss in the optional sliced olives for an extra briny element. Taste the dish and adjust with a pinch of salt if needed, though the Parmesan and olives often provide enough. Serve this flavorful Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe immediately, embracing the warmth and comfort it brings to your table.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
A little guidance goes a long way in ensuring your dish turns out perfectly every time, creating wonderful memories around the dinner table.
Pro Tips for Success
- Mind the Shrimp: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so do not overcook it; remove it from the heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque to keep it tender.
- Fresh Garlic Wins: Always use fresh garlic for the most robust and authentic flavor profile. Pre-minced garlic can sometimes have a different taste.
- Adjust Creaminess: If your sauce seems too thick, a tablespoon or two of vegetable broth or heavy cream can thin it to your desired consistency.
- Taste and Season: Always taste your dish before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your personal preference.
- Serve Promptly: This dish is best enjoyed hot right off the stove, when the flavors are brightest and the textures are optimal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the Skillet: Cook in batches if necessary, as overcrowding steams the ingredients instead of sautéing them, preventing a good sear.
- Leaving Shrimp Tails On: If you prefer to eat your shrimp without hassle, remove the tails before cooking. Otherwise, they can be left on for presentation.
- Not Prepping in Advance: Doing your “mise en place” (gathering and preparing ingredients) saves time and stress during cooking.
- Adding Fresh Herbs Too Early: Delicate fresh herbs like arugula and basil should be stirred in at the very end to maintain their vibrant color and flavor.
Serving, Storage & Variations
This versatile Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is not only simple to make but also incredibly flexible for serving, storage, and delightful variations.
How to Serve
Serve this hearty and flavorful dish as a stand-alone main course for a light yet satisfying dinner. For those who enjoy a fuller meal, it pairs beautifully with a side of creamy cauliflower rice or a fluffy cauliflower mash, soaking up all that delicious sauce. This quick shrimp dish is also fantastic for a healthy and energizing low carb lunch, providing sustained energy throughout your afternoon.
Storage Instructions
If you happen to have any delicious leftovers, store them properly to enjoy later. Transfer the cooled Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe into an airtight container. Refrigerate it promptly, and it will keep well for up to 2-3 days, ready for another quick meal. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
Recipe Variations
Get creative and customize this recipe to explore new flavors and textures!
- Make it Spicy: Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Add Different Veggies: Incorporate sliced mushrooms, colorful bell peppers, or tender spinach for added nutrients and variety.
- Change Proteins: Swap out the shrimp for chicken breast pieces, tender scallops, or even firm white fish for a different protein experience.
- Dairy-Free Option: Use full-fat coconut cream or a plant-based cream cheese alternative to create a rich, dairy-free sauce.
- Boost Herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like dill, oregano, or extra parsley to layer in new aromatic dimensions.
Nutrition Information
This Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe truly shines as a nutritional powerhouse. It’s an excellent choice for anyone following a low carb or ketogenic diet, providing a balanced profile that supports your wellness goals. Each serving is packed with high-quality protein from the shrimp, healthy fats from olive oil and cream cheese, and essential vitamins and fiber from the vibrant broccoli. This makes it a meal that not only tastes good but also fuels your body efficiently.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 381 calories |
| Carbohydrates | 16 grams |
| Cholesterol | 180 milligrams |
| Fat | 25 grams |
| Fiber | 4 grams |
| Protein | 26 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 8 grams |
| Serving Size | 1 |
| Sodium | 1080 milligrams |
| Sugar | 4 grams |
| Trans Fat | 0 grams |
| Unsaturated Fat | 15 grams |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Yes, this Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Prepare a larger batch and divide it into individual portions for easy, healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
You can, but pre-cooked shrimp should only be added at the very end of cooking, just long enough to warm through, to avoid making it rubbery. Fresh shrimp yields the best texture and flavor.
How can I make it dairy-free?
To make this dish dairy-free, substitute the cream cheese with a good quality dairy-free cream cheese alternative or use a couple of tablespoons of full-fat coconut cream. Skip the Parmesan cheese.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
No fresh basil? No problem! You can use other fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro, or even a pinch of dried Italian seasoning in the sauce. The flavor profile will shift but remain delicious.
Can I freeze this dish?
Freezing cooked shrimp can sometimes alter its texture, making it a bit rubbery upon reheating. While technically possible, it’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a few days.
Final Thoughts
This Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious and comforting. It proves that healthy eating can be both quick and incredibly flavorful, without compromising on satisfaction.
Perfect for healthy weeknight dinners, this keto-friendly dish will quickly become a cherished favorite in your family’s repertoire. We warmly encourage you to try this recipe, gather your loved ones, and share the joy of simple cooking.
Easy Low Carb Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe (15-Minute Keto Meal)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a pan, cook shrimp and broccoli with olive oil over medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add minced garlic, chopped tomato, lemon juice, and optional crushed pepper; stir in cream cheese and cook for 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in arugula and fresh basil, turn off the heat, and incorporate Parmesan, plenty of black pepper, and olives, adjusting salt if necessary.
- Serve your low-carb shrimp and broccoli immediately to enjoy fresh.
Notes
Hi there, I’m chef living in New York City. Every morning, I wake up to the sounds of my little one’s laughter and the comforting routine of preparing breakfast for my family my husband, our child, and my beloved mother, who’s become both my rock and my inspiration since my father passed away. As the only daughter left in our family, I feel a deep responsibility to carry on his memory whenever I step into the kitchen.
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
- Dominique
