
Introduction to Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
We’re all adults here. We know some days getting dinner on the table can feel more like a marathon than a meal. Enter my Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs. These super-hero little numbers save busy nights with their quick prep time and outrageously delicious flavors. Imagine, if you will, succulent shrimp juxtaposed against bright, fresh broccoli … all tied up in a neat little bundle and baked to perfection. This is an easy dinner to make you proud in front of your family, or to help you decompress after a long day. Who says this … this “cooking” has to be daunting? No one! So grab your ingredients and let the fun begin on your most glorious culinary odyssey yet.
Why You’ll Love This Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
First off, they’re incredibly quick! From prep to plate, you can serve up this delicious dish in just 25 minutes. Talk about a time-saver! Plus, it’s a one-pan meal, meaning less cleanup – and who doesn’t love that? The combination of garlic, butter, and smoked paprika creates a mouthwatering flavor that’ll have your family coming back for seconds. Trust me, these Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs will quickly become a family favorite!
Ingredients for Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
Gathering the right ingredients is an essential part of creating delicious Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs. Here’s what you need:
- Medium raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined, these tender morsels are the star of the dish, giving it a sweet, ocean-fresh flavor.
- Butter: Whether you choose butter, ghee, or olive oil, this fat will add richness and help in sautéing the ingredients in the foil.
- Minced garlic: A must for adding aromatic depth, garlic infuses the meal with a heavenly fragrance that lingers.
- Italian seasoning: This savory blend brings fragrant herbs, perfect for enhancing the overall flavor and providing a Mediterranean touch.
- Onion powder: A quick way to add sweetness and depth without the fuss of chopping fresh onions.
- Vegetable or chicken stock: Divided for moisture, these liquids not only provide flavor but also keep the shrimp succulent.
- Salt and pepper: Essentials for seasoning, these basics elevate the taste of all the other ingredients.
- Smoked paprika: This delightful spice adds a smoky depth, with just a hint of warmth that brings the dish to life.
- Red chili pepper flakes: If you like a kick, sprinkling these in offers a delightful heat to balance the sweetness of the shrimp.
- Fresh lemon juice: This brightens everything up, cutting through the richness and adding a refreshing zing.
- Broccoli florets: Not only do they add vibrant color, but broccoli packs a nutritional punch, making this meal healthy as well.
- Fresh chopped parsley: For garnish, this adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that makes each pack look gorgeous!
Keep in mind, you can find exact measurements for each ingredient at the bottom of this article, along with a printable version!
How to Make Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
Preheat the Oven
First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 425ºF (220ºC). This step is crucial for even cooking, ensuring that your shrimp and broccoli are perfectly tender by the time they finish baking. A hot oven gives the packs that delightful oven-roasted flavor!
Prepare the Foil Sheets
Next, it’s time to prep your aluminum foil sheets. Cut two pieces measuring 14 by 12 inches. Lay them flat on your countertop so they’re ready for action. Think of this as creating little cozy homes for your ingredients. Make sure they have enough space for wrapping later on!
Mix the Seasoning and Prepare the Shrimp
Now, grab a small bowl and mix together your spice blend: Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. This is where the magic begins! Coat the raw shrimp in this seasoning until they are wonderfully fragrant, like a culinary hug for your taste buds. Each shrimp should be generously covered for maximum flavor!
Assemble the Packets
It’s assembly time! Start by placing an equal portion of shrimp near the center of each foil sheet. Then, add a generous handful of broccoli florets beside the shrimp—these will steam nicely while baking. Don’t forget to sprinkle minced garlic over everything; it adds an irresistible aroma! Finish it off with a drizzle of lemon juice, a dash of salt and pepper, and some butter on top for richness. Now, it’s ready to be wrapped up tightly!
Seal and Bake
Carefully fold the edges of your foil to seal the packets, crimping them closed to lock in all the delicious steam. It’s important not to wrap them too tightly; leave a bit of room inside for heat to circulate, letting everything cook evenly. After that, transfer your neatly wrapped packets to a baking sheet and pop them in the oven for about 15 minutes!
Garnish and Serve
Once your shrimp and broccoli packets are done, take them out and unwrap them with care—watch out for that hot steam! Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and a slice of lemon for a pop of color. This adds a lovely touch to your meal. Serve your warm foil packs directly on the plate for a lovely presentation that’s sure to impress your family or dinner guests!
Tips for Success
- Always use heavy-duty aluminum foil for better durability and heat retention.
- Don’t overcook the shrimp; they should be pink and opaque after baking.
- Feel free to customize the veggies with bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch.
- For a zesty twist, add a teaspoon of lemon zest before sealing the packets.
- Make extra for meal prep—it reheats beautifully!
Equipment Needed for Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
- Aluminum foil: Heavy-duty is best, but regular foil works in a pinch.
- Baking sheet: A sturdy option to hold your foil packs while they bake.
- Mixing bowl: Any size will do for combining your spices.
- Measuring spoons: Handy for accurately measuring seasonings.
- Serving utensils: Use tongs or a spatula to serve your delicious creations.
Variations of Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
- Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like dill or basil for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in some diced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha for a heat-loving twist that packs a punch!
- Asian Style: Swap butter for sesame oil, and add soy sauce and ginger to create an Asian-inspired version that’s savory and delicious.
- Quinoa Boost: Add cooked quinoa to the foil packs for an extra layer of texture and nutritional goodness.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace shrimp with chickpeas or tofu, and include plenty of colorful veggies like bell peppers and zucchini for a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions for Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
- Serve with rice: Fluffy white or brown rice pairs perfectly to soak up the savory juices.
- Pair with a salad: A light garden salad adds freshness, balancing the richness of the dish.
- Wine pairing: A crisp white wine or a chilled rosé enhances the meal beautifully.
- Presentation tip: Serve foil packs on a colorful platter for a stunning visual impact.
FAQs about Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
Can I use frozen shrimp in these foil packs?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp before adding them to the foil packs. Frozen shrimp can release excess moisture, so it’s best to rinse and pat them dry.
What can I substitute for shrimp if someone has allergies?
If shrimp is off the table, consider using chicken breast, tofu, or even chickpeas. These substitutes will still provide protein while keeping the meal delicious.
Can I make Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep these foil packs a few hours in advance. Just keep them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them. This makes for a quick dinner solution when time is tight!
How do I know when the shrimp is fully cooked?
The shrimp will turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. They should also curl up slightly—this is a good indicator they’re ready to eat!
Can I double the recipe?
Certainly! Just make sure you have enough foil and a larger baking sheet to accommodate the extra packs. You might need to adjust the cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on them while they bake!
Final Thoughts
Cooking doesn’t have to be a chore, especially when you have delightful Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs in your arsenal. They’re not only quick to whip up but also burst with flavor and nutrition. I love how they take minimal effort while delivering vibrant presentations that will wow my family. This recipe has become my go-to for those busy nights when I want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll surely find joy in these foil packets, making mealtime a breeze and allowing more time for laughter around the table. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious and quick dinner option featuring shrimp and broccoli baked in foil packs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) medium raw shrimp (peeled and deveined, tail-on or tail-off)
- 2 tablespoons butter, diced (or ghee, or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or chicken stock, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Red chili pepper flakes, optional
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 large head of broccoli, broken into florets
- Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425ºF (220ºC). Cut 2 sheets of 14 by 12-inch (35 x 30 cm) heavy-duty aluminum foil then lay each piece separately on the countertop.
- In a small bowl, combine the ingredients for the spice mix: Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (plus powdered stock if using, see notes).
- In a shallow plate, add shrimp and sprinkle with the spice mix, coating on all sides.
- Divide shrimp onto the aluminum foil near the center then place broccoli florets to one side of the shrimp.
- Add garlic over broccoli and shrimp, then sprinkle with lemon juice, red crushed chili pepper flakes (if using) and finish with salt and pepper.
- Divide butter pieces evenly among the shrimp foil packets, layering them over the shrimp and broccoli.
- Add a tablespoon of vegetable stock in each foil packet and wrap packets in and crimp edges together then wrap ends up. Don’t wrap too tight – keep a little extra space inside for heat to circulate.
- Transfer to a baking sheet and bake shrimp foil packets in the oven, sealed side upward until shrimps have cooked through, about 15 minutes.
- Carefully unwrap the baked shrimp and broccoli foil packets, then garnish with fresh parsley and a slice of lemon. Enjoy!
Notes
- Powdered stock can be added for more flavor if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 packet
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 200mg