The moment I heard a cheerful sizzle in my skillet, memories of cozy family dinners flooded back. This Garlic Butter Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli dish captures that warmth perfectly; it’s the kind of meal that wraps you in flavor and comfort. Picture tender, succulent shrimp beautifully nestled among hearty slices of sausage, all mingling with vibrant broccoli, smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce that feels like a hug on a plate.
On those busy weeknights when the thought of fast food looms large, I find solace in this quick yet impressive recipe. With just a handful of simple, fresh ingredients, you can whip up something that rivals even the best restaurant fare. Not only does it promise satisfaction in every bite, but it’s also incredibly adaptable—swap in your favorite veggies or a different protein, and voila! A family-friendly classic that’s bursting with flavor and ready in a flash makes it a go-to meal in my kitchen. Join me as we dive into this delicious recipe!
Why is Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli a must-try?
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for those busy weeknights.
Flavorful: The rich garlic butter sauce elevates the dish, perfectly complementing the shrimp’s sweetness and the sausage’s savory goodness.
Nutrient-Packed: With vibrant broccoli as a star ingredient, you’re not just feasting on flavor but also loading up on essential vitamins.
Adaptable: Feel free to customize with your choice of veggies or proteins, allowing for endless variations. For more exciting ideas, check out these creative swaps.
Family-Friendly: This meal is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, making it perfect for gatherings or simply a cozy family dinner at home.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli Ingredients
• Preparing this dish is a breeze with these simple ingredients!
For the Shrimp & Sausage
- Shrimp – 1 lb (450g) peeled and deveined; it adds protein and a sweet flavor, making the garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli a delectable dish.
- Sausage – 8 oz (225g) sliced; it gives depth and savory flavor, while smoked sausage or chicken sausage works as a lighter substitute.
For the Vegetables
- Broccoli – 2 cups of florets; this wonderful veggie offers crunch and nutrients, or you can swap it for asparagus or green beans for some excitement.
For Cooking
- Unsalted Butter – 3 tbsp; this ingredient provides richness and flavor, but feel free to replace it with olive oil or vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Garlic – 4 cloves, minced; it enhances aroma and taste, and in a pinch, garlic powder can work too—use about 1/2 tsp.
- Olive Oil – 2 tbsp; this is used for sautéing, but any cooking oil will do—just avoid those with strong flavors.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste; essential for seasoning—don’t hesitate to adjust according to dietary preferences.
Optional Garnish
- Fresh Parsley – A handful, chopped; this will add a fresh touch to the dish.
- Lemon Wedges – For drizzling; they enhance visual appeal and add a zesty flavor boost.
How to Make Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, slicing the sausage, and chopping the broccoli into florets. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable!
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Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, set the sausage aside on a plate.
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Cook Broccoli: In the same skillet, toss in another tablespoon of olive oil and add the broccoli. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until it’s tender but still crisp. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside with the sausage.
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Cook Shrimp: Now, add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re perfectly cooked, take them out of the skillet.
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Make Garlic Butter Sauce: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for 1-2 minutes until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
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Combine Everything: Return the sausage, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet. Pour the garlic butter sauce over the mixture, and gently toss everything together to ensure it’s well coated in that luscious sauce.
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Serve: Serve the dish immediately, garnished with chopped parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh and vibrant touch. Enjoy every bite!
Optional: Drizzling with additional lemon juice adds a bright flavor explosion.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat in a skillet over low heat to retain texture without toughening the shrimp.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently before serving.
Reheating: When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to help keep the garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli moist and flavorful.
Avoid Storing: Do not store garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli with fresh ingredients like parsley or lemon wedges, as they can wilt and spoil quickly.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Butter Shrimp, Sausage, and Broccoli are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can peel and devein the shrimp, slice the sausage, and chop the broccoli up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the garlic butter sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it, allowing for easy assembly later. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the sausage and broccoli, add the shrimp, and then pour the sauce over the mixture to finish cooking. This way, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying dinner without the last-minute rush!
What to Serve with Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli?
Transform your meal into a delightful culinary experience that excites your taste buds.
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Creamy Risotto: This rich, creamy dish enhances the meal’s elegance, soaking up the garlic butter sauce beautifully. As you savor each bite, the contrasting textures will keep your palate engaged.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, garlic bread is a perfect, indulgent side that complements the seafood and sausage while harmonizing the meal with its familiar flavors.
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Crispy Green Salad: A refreshing mix of greens and a light vinaigrette will add a crispness that balances the richness of the garlic butter sauce. The freshness in every bite elevates the entire dinner experience.
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Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, spiralized zucchini is a delightful substitute that allows you to soak up the garlic butter sauce without the heaviness of pasta. It’s a light and nutritious choice that feels indulgent.
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Quinoa Pilaf: This nutty and fluffy grain is an excellent base that provides additional protein and texture, perfectly complementing the garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink perfectly cuts through the richness of the meal. The acidity from the lemon in beverages ensures a well-rounded dining experience.
Experimenting with these pairings will bring a new dimension to your meal and leave everyone asking for seconds!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli Variations
Get creative and make this dish your own with these delightful modifications!
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Chicken Swap: Substitute shrimp with bite-sized chicken pieces for a heartier protein option that’s equally savory.
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Different Sausages: Try a blend of spicy sausage or Italian sausage to enhance the overall flavor profile and give it a kick.
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Veggie Boost: Use colorful bell peppers or snap peas to add sweetness and crunch, bringing more vibrancy to your plate.
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Gluten-Free: Serve over quinoa or rice instead of traditional pasta to keep it gluten-free while enjoying a satisfying meal.
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Dairy-Free Option: Replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil for a creamy consistency without dairy.
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Low-Carb Delight: Serve over spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a refreshing, low-carb alternative.
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Flavorful Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter sauce for those who love a touch of spice.
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Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or cilantro instead of parsley to bring a unique twist and freshness to your dish.
Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli
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Perfect Timing: Always cook shrimp until they’re pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, ruining this delicious dish.
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Bold Garlic Flavor: Sauté garlic until it’s fragrant but not browned. This prevents bitterness and enhances its aromatic qualities in the garlic butter shrimp sausage and broccoli.
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Non-Stick Skillet: Use a non-stick skillet for easy cooking and clean-up. This will help prevent sticking and ensure even cooking throughout all ingredients.
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Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh garlic and high-quality sausage will elevate the flavor. Dried herbs and cheap sausages can dull the dish’s richness.
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Customize Veggies: Feel free to swap in your family’s favorite veggies or add extra spices. This dish is adaptable, so make it your own!
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Resting Time: Let the dish sit for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps meld the flavors together for an even tastier experience!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing shrimp, look for firm, shiny shells with a fresh smell. Avoid shrimp with dark spots or strong fishy odors, as these indicate spoilage. Fresh shrimp should be slightly translucent and have a consistent color.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Very! To store your Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli, place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will remain fresh for up to 2 days. When rewarming, do so gently over low heat in a skillet to prevent the shrimp from becoming tough.
Can I freeze Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli?
Yes! To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in a skillet over low heat. Adding a splash of broth or water can help maintain its moisture and flavor.
What if my shrimp come out rubbery?
If your shrimp turn out rubbery, it’s likely due to overcooking. Make sure to cook them only until they are pink and opaque—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes per side. Always keep an eye on them, as shrimp cook quickly!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Good question! This dish is inherently gluten-free, but if you or your family members have allergies to shellfish, it’s best to substitute the shrimp with a protein like chicken or tofu. Additionally, if you’re serving this to pets, remember that garlic can be toxic to them, so keep the leftovers out of their reach!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Sausage and Broccoli: Your Quick Dinner Win
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by peeling and deveining the shrimp, slicing the sausage, and chopping the broccoli into florets.
- Cook Sausage: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Set the sausage aside.
- Cook Broccoli: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and the broccoli. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until tender yet crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet.
- Make Garlic Butter Sauce: Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Everything: Return the sausage, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet. Pour garlic butter sauce over, and gently toss to coat.
- Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges.