Introduction

This baked shrimp and broccoli foil pack recipe features tender shrimp and crisp-tender broccoli roasted in a bright garlic lemon butter sauce. It’s inspired by simple Mediterranean flavors, easy to prepare, and ideal for weeknights, meal prep, or a light dinner. The foil-packet method locks in moisture and concentrates flavor, producing juicy shrimp and perfectly cooked vegetables with minimal cleanup.

This dish is naturally quick, gluten-free (when using dairy-free butter alternatives if needed), and adaptable: swap vegetables, use a different protein, or adjust seasonings to match your taste. Below you’ll find ingredients, step-by-step instructions, helpful tips, serving suggestions, nutrition information, storage advice, and common questions answered.

Ingredients for Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined (tail-on or tail-off)
• 2 tablespoons butter, diced (or ghee, or olive oil for dairy-free)
• 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 flakes, optional, for heat
• Juice of 1/2 lemon
• 1 large head broccoli, broken into florets
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Optional substitutions

• Swap butter for olive oil or dairy-free margarine for a dairy-free version.
• Use boneless chicken pieces in place of shrimp—adjust cooking time accordingly.
• Replace broccoli with zucchini, asparagus, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes for a different vegetable mix.

How to Make Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the oven and foil

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut two sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil approximately 14 by 12 inches (35 x 30 cm) and lay them flat on your work surface.

Step 2: Mix the seasonings

In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir to blend.

Step 3: Season the shrimp

Place the shrimp on a shallow plate and sprinkle the spice blend over them, tossing lightly so each shrimp is evenly coated.

Step 4: Assemble the foil packs

Divide the shrimp between the two foil sheets, placing them in the center. Add broccoli florets to one side of each packet. Sprinkle minced garlic over the shrimp and broccoli.

Step 5: Add flavor boosters

Squeeze the juice from half a lemon over each packet. Add red chili flakes if using and season to taste with salt and pepper. Distribute the butter pieces evenly on top of the shrimp and broccoli.

Step 6: Seal and bake

Pour 1 tablespoon of stock into each packet to create a bit of steam and sauce. Fold and crimp the foil edges to seal, leaving room for heat circulation. Place packets on a baking sheet and bake for about 15 minutes, or until shrimp are opaque and cooked through.

Step 7: Serve

Carefully open the foil packs to avoid hot steam. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with a lemon wedge. These foil packs pair well with rice, quinoa, or a simple salad.

Helpful Tips

• Use fresh or properly thawed shrimp: Pat shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure a good sear and to avoid diluting the sauce.
• Watch cooking time: Shrimp cook very quickly; overcooking makes them rubbery. Check at the 12–15 minute mark.
• Customize vegetables: Add bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, corn kernels, or thinly sliced carrots for more color and texture.
• Parchment option: If you prefer, line the foil with parchment paper to reduce direct contact with aluminum.
• Add lemon zest: A little lemon zest sprinkled over the shrimp before baking brightens the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the foil packs over steamed rice, cauliflower rice, or quinoa for a complete meal. A crusty baguette or garlic bread will help soak up the garlic lemon butter sauce. For a lighter option, pair with a cucumber-tomato salad or mixed greens.

Nutritional Information

Approximate nutrition per serving

• Calories: 210
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 7 g
• Fat: 10 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Vitamin C: ~60% DV (from broccoli and lemon)
• Iron: ~15% DV

Storage and Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 5–7 minutes until warmed through. Reheating in the oven helps preserve texture better than the microwave.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes—thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning and assembling the packets.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Replace butter with olive oil, ghee (if dairy-tolerant), or a dairy-free margarine substitute.

Can I grill these instead of baking?

Yes. Place sealed foil packs on a medium-high grill for about 12–15 minutes, turning once halfway through.