Ultimate Garlic Butter Salmon and Shrimp Dinner

From Chaotic Evenings to Our Favorite Family Meal

I remember those frantic weeknight evenings like they were yesterday. Juggling work deadlines, school pickups, and the dreaded “What’s for dinner?” question felt like a daily marathon I was losing. My goal was always to put something healthy and delicious on the table, but most nights, convenience won, and so did the guilt. That all changed the day I threw a few of our favorite things onto a single sheet pan. This experiment, born out of desperation, became the incredible Garlic Butter Salmon and Shrimp recipe we now cherish. It’s a dish that transformed our chaotic evenings into moments of connection, proving that a show-stopping, nutritious meal doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This one-pan wonder is now our most requested family dinner, and I’m so excited to share it with you.

Everything You Need for This Delicious Meal

The magic of this dish lies in its simple, high-quality ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavor. Below is your shopping list, complete with tips and easy substitutions to make this recipe your own.

Ready in Under 30 Minutes: A Weeknight Win

In our fast-paced world, time is the ultimate luxury. This recipe respects your schedule without compromising on quality or flavor.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 25-28 minutes

A recent study found that the average American spends about 60 minutes preparing and cooking dinner each night. This one-pan Garlic Butter Salmon and Shrimp recipe cuts that time by more than 50%, giving you back precious moments to spend with your family.

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Veggies

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup—this is a non-negotiable step in my kitchen! In a large bowl, toss the broccoli florets with a tablespoon of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them in a single layer on one side of the prepared baking sheet. Roasting them for a few minutes first ensures they become perfectly tender-crisp. Pop the pan in the oven to give the broccoli a 5-minute head start while you prepare the seafood.

Step 2: Season the Salmon and Shrimp

While the broccoli is getting a head start, pat your salmon fillets and shrimp completely dry with paper towels. This is the secret to getting a beautiful sear, even in the oven. Place the salmon and shrimp in the same bowl you used for the broccoli (no need to wash it!). Drizzle with a little more olive oil and season generously with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning. Set aside for a moment.

Step 3: Create the Luscious Garlic Butter Sauce

Now for the heart of the recipe! In a small saucepan over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes. Sauté for about 30-60 seconds, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown or it will taste bitter. Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley. This vibrant, aromatic sauce is what brings everything together.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake Your Masterpiece

Remove the baking sheet from the oven. Push the partially cooked broccoli to the edges to make room in the center. Arrange the seasoned salmon fillets down the middle of the pan and scatter the shrimp around them. Now, generously spoon that glorious garlic butter sauce over every single piece of salmon, shrimp, and broccoli. Use a pastry brush to ensure everything is evenly coated. Place a few thin slices of lemon on top of the salmon fillets for extra flavor and a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Return the fully loaded sheet pan to the oven and bake for 10-12 minutes. The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork and is opaque. The shrimp should be pink and curled. The broccoli should be tender with slightly crispy, charred edges. Everyone’s oven is different, so keep a close eye on it during the last few minutes to avoid overcooking the seafood.

A Slice of Health: Nutritional Insights

This isn’t just a delicious meal; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (assuming 4 servings):

• Calories: 550-600 kcal
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 38g (Rich in healthy Omega-3 fatty acids from the salmon)
• Carbohydrates: 8g (Making it very low-carb and keto-friendly)
• Fiber: 3g

This dish provides a fantastic source of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, and Omega-3s, which are celebrated for their heart and brain health benefits.

Deliciously Healthy Swaps and Alternatives

this now & bake later ❤️

While this recipe is already quite healthy, you can easily adapt it to fit various dietary needs and preferences.

• Dairy-Free: Simply swap the butter for a good quality extra virgin olive oil or use ghee, which has the milk solids removed.
• Paleo/Whole30: Use ghee or olive oil instead of butter and ensure your seasonings are compliant (no added sugars).
• Load Up the Veggies: Feel free to add more low-carb vegetables like asparagus, bell peppers, or zucchini to the pan. This increases the fiber and nutrient content even further.
• Lower Sodium: Use a salt-free seasoning blend and be mindful of the added salt. A squeeze of fresh lemon at the end can enhance flavor without adding sodium.

Creative Ways to Serve Your Dish

This meal is fantastic on its own, but it can also be the base for several other exciting dishes.

• Classic Comfort: Serve over a bed of fluffy quinoa, creamy mashed potatoes, or simple white rice to soak up every last drop of the garlic butter sauce.
• Low-Carb & Keto: Pair it with cauliflower rice, zucchini noodles, or a fresh, crisp side salad.
• Next-Day Salad: Flake the leftover salmon and chop the shrimp to top a bed of mixed greens for an incredible, high-protein lunch salad.
• Pasta Toss: Toss leftovers with your favorite pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to create a quick and elegant seafood pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Flawless Results

This recipe is simple, but a few details can make a big difference. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Crowding the Pan: This is the #1 mistake in one-pan meals. If you overload your baking sheet, the ingredients will steam instead of roast, leading to soggy broccoli and pale seafood. Use a large pan or two smaller ones if necessary.
• Overcooking the Seafood: Salmon and shrimp cook very quickly. A recent survey showed that 60% of home cooks worry about overcooking fish. Check for doneness a minute or two before the timer goes off. The salmon should be moist and flaky, not dry.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using garlic powder or bottled lemon juice will result in a flat, one-dimensional flavor. Fresh garlic, lemon, and parsley are essential for the vibrant taste of this dish.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: While not a flavor mistake, skipping this step will create a cleanup nightmare. The garlic butter can burn onto the pan, so do yourself a favor and line it first.

Storing and Reheating for Round Two

Leftovers are a gift, but only if they are stored and reheated properly.

• Storing: Allow the meal to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making for a delicious next-day meal.
• Reheating: Avoid the microwave, which can make seafood rubbery. The best way to reheat is in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth until just warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm it in a low-temperature oven (300°F/150°C) for a few minutes.

Your New Go-To for Effortless, Elegant Dinners

This Garlic Butter Salmon and Shrimp recipe is more than just food; it’s a solution for busy families who refuse to compromise on flavor and health. It’s a versatile, quick, and incredibly satisfying meal that proves you can have it all on a weeknight. The combination of tender salmon, plump shrimp, and crisp broccoli, all bathed in a luscious garlic butter sauce, is truly a match made in heaven.

Now it’s your turn to bring this magic to your own kitchen! We would love to hear how it goes. Did you try any of the suggested swaps? Share your experience in the comments below or leave a review. For more easy and delicious recipes that fit your busy lifestyle, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter!

Your Questions, Answered: Recipe FAQs

• Can I use frozen salmon and shrimp?Yes, absolutely. Just make sure to thaw them completely before you begin. For best results, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Most importantly, pat them very dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
• What other vegetables would work well in this recipe?This recipe is incredibly versatile. Asparagus spears are a fantastic choice as they cook in about the same time. You could also use thinly sliced bell peppers, zucchini, or even green beans.
• Can I make this dish on the stovetop instead of the oven?Yes. You would cook the components in a large skillet. Start by searing the salmon, then remove it. Sauté the broccoli until tender-crisp, then add the shrimp and garlic butter sauce, cooking until the shrimp are pink. Add the salmon back to the pan to warm through.
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?Yes, it’s great for meal prep. You can portion out the cooked meal into individual airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches for a couple of days. The flavors are just as delicious when enjoyed cold over a salad.