Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe A Flavor Packed Skillet Meal Ready in Minutes

Last Updated on December 8, 2025 by Chef Josie

When your evenings are packed, your energy is running low, and you still crave a nourishing meal that tastes like something from your favorite restaurant, this Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe becomes an absolute lifesaver. It is quick, vibrant, and full of flavor, but more importantly, it checks every box for busy weeknight needs. This dish belongs on your menu rotation if you lean on quick healthy dinner ideas, clean eating recipes, or simply want something lighter without sacrificing satisfaction.

Shrimp and broccoli are a perfect pairing for so many reasons. Shrimp cooks incredibly fast, making it ideal for lazy dinners when time is limited. Broccoli, when sautéed or lightly steamed, brings both texture and nutrient density to your plate. Together, they form a balanced, high protein, low carb meal that delivers comfort without heaviness. The skillet preparation method brings out deep flavors while keeping the process simple enough for even novice cooks.

Whether your goal is healthy dinner meals, cheap dinners for a family, or developing a list of kid friendly dinners, this recipe fits into countless lifestyles. It is flexible, budget friendly, and easy to customize with different seasonings or vegetables. This meal also works wonderfully for meal prep, meaning you can enjoy healthy leftovers throughout the week without additional effort. And because shrimp absorbs flavor so readily, even a small amount of seasoning transforms the dish into something bold and memorable.

Let’s dive deeper into why this Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe is about to become one of your go to healthy dinner ideas.

Click to Access the Table of Contents:

Learn More  Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken A Crispy Cheesy Chicken Dinner Everyone Loves

Table of Contents

Print

Why You Will Love This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe

Fast and efficient for the busiest nights

This entire recipe comes together in under 20 minutes. Shrimp cooks in just a few minutes, and broccoli softens quickly, meaning you can have dinner on the table faster than it takes to order takeout.

Naturally low carb and clean eating friendly

Instead of relying on heavy sauces or starchy sides, this dish focuses on whole ingredients. It aligns with clean eating recipes, healthy dinner meals, and wellness driven lifestyles without feeling restrictive or boring.

High protein and satisfying

Shrimp offers lean protein that helps keep you full while supporting healthy meal ideas and more nutritious supper ideas.

Budget friendly shrimp recipe

Although shrimp sometimes seems like a luxury, purchasing frozen shrimp in bulk makes this dish one of the best cheap dinners for a family. It costs far less than restaurant takeout but delivers similar flavor.

Perfect for kids and adults

The mild flavors and simple ingredients make this recipe kid friendly. Adults can easily adjust seasoning for extra heat or complexity without making separate dinners.

Pairs well with many sides

Even though the recipe is naturally low carb, it works alongside rice, cauliflower rice, quinoa, or a simple salad. It fits seamlessly into many healthy dinner ideas.

Ingredients for This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe

Shrimp

Choose peeled and deveined shrimp for the fastest prep. Medium or large shrimp work best because they hold moisture well and cook evenly. Shrimp also fits perfectly into low carb eating patterns and healthy meal ideas due to its high protein content.

Broccoli

Fresh broccoli florets are ideal for this recipe, although frozen broccoli can be used in a pinch. Broccoli provides fiber, vitamins, and structure to the dish while keeping it aligned with healthy dinner meals.

Olive oil or avocado oil

Healthy fats help sauté the shrimp and broccoli while giving the dish a rich, satisfying taste.

Garlic

Fresh garlic adds depth and brings out the natural sweetness of shrimp. Garlic also blends well with many clean eating recipes and seasoning blends.

Seasonings

A simple seasoning blend creates bold flavor without effort. Typical additions include:

• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper

These seasonings enhance the shrimp and broccoli without overwhelming their natural flavors.

Lemon juice

Fresh lemon adds brightness and cuts through richness. A squeeze of lemon brings everything together beautifully.

Fresh herbs (optional)

Parsley, cilantro, or green onions all work well and elevate presentation as well as flavor.

How to Make This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe

Step 1 Prep your ingredients

Pat shrimp dry to ensure proper browning. Rinse and chop the broccoli into similar sized florets so they cook evenly.

Step 2 Cook the broccoli

Start by sautéing broccoli in olive oil. The goal is to soften it while still preserving a slight crunch. Add a splash of water if needed to steam it lightly. Once tender, remove broccoli from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3 Season and cook the shrimp

Using the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Add shrimp and season generously. Shrimp cooks quickly, usually within 3 to 4 minutes. Once shrimp turns pink and opaque, it is ready.

Step 4 Combine shrimp and broccoli

Return broccoli to the skillet. Toss with the shrimp, adding garlic and lemon juice. Allow the two to combine for a minute so flavors meld.

Step 5 Finish with herbs and serve

Fresh herbs or scallions give the dish a bright finishing touch. Serve hot as a stand alone dinner or pair with your favorite side.

Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Broccoli Every Time

Do not overcook the shrimp

Shrimp becomes rubbery when overcooked. Remove from heat as soon as it turns pink.

Cook broccoli separately for best texture

Combining everything too soon can result in uneven cooking. Sauté broccoli first for best results.

Dry the shrimp thoroughly

Moisture prevents proper browning. Patting shrimp dry ensures better flavor.

Add heat if you enjoy spicy dinners

Red pepper flakes, cayenne, or chili paste all work well.

Use frozen shrimp for convenience

Frozen shrimp cooks beautifully and is often more affordable, making it great for cheap dinners for a family.

Variations of This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe

Garlic butter version

Add butter instead of oil for a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Teriyaki low carb version

Use a sugar free teriyaki sauce for a sweet and savory twist.

Mediterranean inspired

Add olives, cherry tomatoes, and oregano to create a Mediterranean style skillet dinner.

Spicy Cajun version

Swap seasonings for Cajun spice to transform the dish with bold heat.

Creamy version

Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a sauce-like consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Healthy dinner ideas that pair well with this recipe include:

• Cauliflower rice for a fully low carb meal
• Jasmine rice or brown rice for a balanced family dinner
• Simple garden salad
• Roasted zucchini or bell peppers
• Lemon garlic quinoa

Because this dish is high-protein and low-carb, it fits seamlessly into many supper ideas and weekly meal rotations.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days.

Freezing

Shrimp freezes well, but broccoli may soften slightly. Use within one month for best flavor.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet for best texture. Avoid overheating, especially with shrimp.

Why You Will Make This Recipe Again and Again

This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe becomes a repeat favorite because it is fast, delicious, budget friendly, and healthy. It fits any night of the week, works for meal prep, and satisfies cravings without requiring much effort in the kitchen. Whether you prioritize healthy meal ideas, quick dinner ideas, or clean eating recipes, this one skillet dinner delivers every time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use precooked shrimp?

Yes, but add it at the very end to prevent overcooking.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, but thaw and pat dry first so it does not release excess water into the skillet.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Can I make this dairy free?

Yes, simply use olive oil and avoid butter based variations.

For more delicious recipes, follow me on :

Medium: @RecipesByJosie

Instagram: @RecipesByJosie

Pinterest: @RecipesByJosie