Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs Recipe

If you’re craving a meal that feels both gourmet and effortlessly simple, these Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs are exactly what your dinner table needs. Imagine tender, juicy shrimp mingling with crisp-tender broccoli, all infused with zesty lemon, garlic, and just the right touch of buttery goodness. Wrapped up snug in foil and baked to perfection, this dish locks in all those bright, vibrant flavors and steams everything just right. Plus, cleanup is a breeze! Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a family, Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs deliver a satisfying, colorful dinner that feels fresh and healthy every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for the Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs is the first step towards creating this flavorful and wholesome meal. Each component plays a vital role—from the tender shrimp and crunchy broccoli to the seasonings and liquids that boost flavor and moisture.

• 1 lb medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed for the best tender texture and sweet seafood flavor.
• 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets: Adds vibrant green color and a satisfying crunch that balances the shrimp.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced: For that aromatic punch that brightens up every bite.
• 1/2 lemon, juiced: Adds refreshing citrus notes to cut through the richness.
• 2 tbsp butter: Melts into the pack, keeping everything luscious and rich.
• 2 tbsp chicken broth, divided: Keeps the seafood and vegetables moist and enhances savory depth.
• Fresh parsley, chopped: A pop of freshness and color for garnish.
• Seasoning blend (1 tsp Italian seasoning, 1 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, salt and black pepper to taste): A flavorful mix that brings warmth, herbs, and a hint of smokiness to the dish.

How to Make Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Foil

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F to get it nice and hot—this will help seal in the flavors efficiently. Meanwhile, cut your aluminum foil into two large squares, about 14 by 14 inches, so you have enough room to create secure foil packs.

Step 2: Season the Shrimp

Mix all your seasoning ingredients in a small bowl, then toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in the blend. Coating them well ensures every bite bursts with those fragrant herb and spice notes.

Step 3: Assemble the Foil Packs

On each piece of foil, place half the shrimp in the center. Arrange the broccoli florets on one side, add the minced garlic over both, and drizzle with fresh lemon juice. Top with half of the butter and chicken broth on each pack. This layering is key for that perfect steam-cooked texture.

Step 4: Wrap and Bake

Carefully fold the foil over the ingredients to create a sealed packet, but don’t wrap too tightly—you want some steam to circulate inside for cooking. Place the foil packs on a baking sheet and slide them into the oven. Bake for about 15 minutes, just until the shrimp is cooked through and the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Step 5: Unwrap and Garnish

Once baked, gently open each foil pack—be cautious of the hot steam! Sprinkle fresh parsley on top to add a fresh, herbaceous note that complements the rich flavors inside.

How to Serve Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Garnishes

Fresh parsley is a classic garnish for Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs, providing a nice color contrast and a mild herbal freshness. Adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a few red pepper flakes can also kick it up a notch visually and flavor-wise.

Side Dishes

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs perfectly with fluffy rice, creamy mashed potatoes, or even some crusty bread to soak up all the lemony buttery juices. For a lighter meal, a simple quinoa salad or wild rice pilaf complements the foil packs beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

For an impressive presentation, serve the foil packs on individual plates, letting guests unwrap their own steamy packets at the table. You can also open the packets and scoop the contents onto a colorful platter garnished with lemon wedges and herbs for a family-style feast. Adding a drizzle of garlic butter sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon just before serving elevates the experience even more.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, transfer any leftover Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs into airtight containers and refrigerate. They will keep fresh for up to 2 days, making them a wonderful ready-to-eat addition for the next day’s lunch or dinner.

Freezing

This recipe doesn’t freeze particularly well once cooked due to the texture of the shrimp and broccoli. However, you can prepare the foil packs ahead—unbaked—and freeze them tightly wrapped. When ready, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the foil packs and place their contents on a baking dish. Warm gently in a 350°F oven for about 8-10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving shrimp repeatedly to keep them tender and juicy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely and pat them dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture inside the foil packs.

What if I don’t have chicken broth? Can I substitute it?

Yes, you can use vegetable broth, white wine, or even water with a pinch of salt. Each will add moisture and flavor, though chicken broth provides a nice savory base.

How do I know when the shrimp is perfectly cooked?

Shrimp turn pink and opaque when cooked. After 15 minutes at 425°F, they should be just tender and not rubbery. Overcooking causes them to become tough, so keep an eye on the cook time.

Can I add other vegetables to the foil packs?

Definitely! Thinly sliced bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or asparagus tips work well and can be enjoyed alongside the shrimp and broccoli.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs are naturally gluten-free, but always check your seasoning blends and broth labels to be sure no gluten-containing ingredients are included.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the ease, freshness, and vibrant flavors of Baked Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs for a weeknight dinner or a laid-back weekend meal. This recipe combines the best of simple ingredients with cooking techniques that bring out their natural goodness, making it a standout favorite that’s quick, healthy, and scrumptious. Give it a try soon — I promise it will become one of your go-to recipes you can whip up in a flash!

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