Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs Recipe: Quick, Healthy, and Flavorful
Introduction
If you want a quick, healthy, and flavorful dinner with minimal cleanup, these Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs are perfect. Packed with succulent shrimp, crisp-tender broccoli, and a savory garlic butter sauce, this dish is cooked entirely in foil for easy preparation and cleanup.
Foil packets are a fantastic way to lock in flavor while keeping vegetables and protein moist. This recipe is inspired by healthy weeknight meals, offering a balance of protein, fiber, and fresh vegetables. You can serve it with rice, quinoa, or enjoy it on its own for a low-carb option.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the full recipe, tips for perfect foil pack cooking, variations, and serving ideas to make a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cups broccoli florets
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for a little heat
- Aluminum foil
Instructions
- Preheat oven
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). - Prepare foil packs
Cut four large pieces of aluminum foil (about 12×12 inches). Lay them flat on a baking sheet. - Arrange ingredients
Divide broccoli evenly among the four foil pieces, placing in the center. Top each with shrimp. - Make garlic butter sauce
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle evenly over each foil packet. Optional: sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat. - Seal foil packs
Fold the foil over the shrimp and broccoli, sealing edges tightly to create a packet. - Bake
Place the foil packets on a baking sheet and bake 12–15 minutes, or until shrimp are pink and opaque and broccoli is tender. - Serve
Carefully open foil packs to release steam. Serve immediately, optionally with a squeeze of fresh lemon or over cooked rice/quinoa.
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
- Uniform shrimp size: Ensures even cooking.
- Do not overfill: Foil packs need space for steam to circulate.
- Fresh herbs: Add chopped parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Quick cleanup: Simply discard foil after eating or reuse if preferred.
Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
Quick and healthy shrimp and broccoli foil packs with garlic butter, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cut four 12×12 inch pieces of aluminum foil and lay on a baking sheet.
- Divide broccoli among foil pieces and top with shrimp.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, lemon juice, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Drizzle over each pack. Optional: sprinkle red pepper flakes.
- Fold foil to seal packets tightly.
- Bake 12–15 minutes until shrimp are pink and broccoli is tender.
- Carefully open foil packets and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure shrimp is evenly sized for even cooking. Do not overfill foil packets to allow steam circulation.
Variations
- Spicy Cajun Shrimp Pack: Add 1 tsp Cajun seasoning to the garlic butter.
- Asian-Inspired Pack: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil instead of garlic butter.
- Cheesy Pack: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top before sealing.
Serving Suggestions
- Low-Carb Dinner: Serve directly from the foil packs with a side salad.
- Rice Bowl: Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice with a drizzle of garlic butter.
- Meal Prep: Make multiple foil packs ahead of time and bake fresh when needed.
Fun Facts
- Cooking in foil packs is an ancient method adapted for modern kitchens; it locks in flavor and reduces cleanup.
- Shrimp cooks quickly, making this dish ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Adding vegetables like broccoli provides fiber, vitamins, and a fresh texture that complements the shrimp perfectly.
