Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs: A Quick, Healthy Dinner

If you’re looking for a fast, healthy, and flavorful dinner, Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs are the perfect solution. Packed with protein-rich shrimp and tender-crisp broccoli, these foil packets are full of bright, zesty flavors and cook in just minutes. They’re ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a backyard cookout.

Using foil packs not only makes cleanup effortless but also locks in flavors and moisture, creating succulent shrimp and perfectly tender broccoli every time. Plus, this recipe is easily adaptable for your taste preferences, from adding spices to swapping vegetables.


Ingredients

  • Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
    • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 3 cups broccoli florets
    • 3 tbsp olive oil
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 lemon, thinly sliced
    • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
    • ½ tsp paprika
    • ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
    • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  2. Prepare the foil packs: Cut 4 large squares of aluminum foil, about 12×12 inches each. Lightly spray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  3. Arrange the vegetables and shrimp: Evenly divide broccoli among the 4 foil squares. Top each with ¼ of the shrimp.
  4. Season and flavor: Sprinkle garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the shrimp and broccoli. Add ½ tbsp of olive oil and ½ tbsp of butter to each packet. Place a few lemon slices on top.
  5. Seal the foil packs: Fold the foil over the ingredients and crimp the edges tightly to create a sealed packet.
  6. Bake: Place the foil packs on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque and broccoli is tender.
  7. Serve: Carefully open the foil packs (watch out for steam). Sprinkle with fresh parsley and an extra squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve directly in the foil for a rustic presentation or plate individually.

Tips for the Perfect Foil Pack

  • Even cooking: Cut broccoli into uniform florets so everything cooks at the same rate.
  • Shrimp size: Large shrimp are best, but medium can be used. Adjust cooking time slightly if using smaller shrimp.
  • Prevent sticking: A light coating of olive oil or butter ensures the shrimp don’t stick to the foil.
  • Flavor variations: Swap broccoli for asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. Add a splash of soy sauce, teriyaki, or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.

Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs

Quick, healthy, and flavorful shrimp and broccoli cooked in foil packets.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Total Time 33 minutes
Servings: 4 packs
Course: Main Dish
Cuisine: American, Healthy
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Shrimp and Broccoli Foil Packs
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups broccoli florets
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 lemon thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter cut into small cubes
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil
  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.
  2. Cut 4 large squares of aluminum foil, about 12×12 inches each. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
  3. Evenly divide broccoli among the 4 foil squares. Top each with ¼ of the shrimp.
  4. Sprinkle garlic, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the shrimp and broccoli. Add ½ tbsp olive oil and ½ tbsp butter to each packet. Place lemon slices on top.
  5. Fold foil over ingredients and crimp edges tightly to create a sealed packet.
  6. Place foil packs on baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, until shrimp are pink and broccoli is tender.
  7. Carefully open foil packs, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

Can swap broccoli for other vegetables. Add sauces or seasonings for flavor variations.

Fun Facts

  • Foil pack cooking is a popular camping method because it’s simple, mess-free, and can be cooked over a fire.
  • Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, low in calories, and packed with nutrients like selenium and vitamin B12.
  • Broccoli is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish as nutritious as it is delicious.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over a bed of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
  • Pair with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a light, satisfying dinner.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or in a skillet with a splash of water to keep the broccoli crisp.

Variations

  • Spicy Garlic Foil Packs: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper and extra red pepper flakes.
  • Mediterranean Style: Include cherry tomatoes, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
  • Asian-Inspired: Drizzle with sesame oil and soy sauce, then top with sesame seeds before baking.

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