Keto Shrimp and Broccoli Recipe

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Wade Lockhart
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Why You’ll Love This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli

This Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli recipe is the kind of dinner that fits real life. It comes together fast, tastes bold, and works well for busy weeknights when you want something filling without a lot of fuss. With shrimp, broccoli, and a simple stir-fry sauce, you get a meal that feels light but still leaves you satisfied.

  • Quick and easy: This shrimp broccoli recipe takes just 5 minutes of prep and about 15 minutes of cooking, so dinner is on the table in about 20 minutes. That makes it a smart choice for home cooks, students, and working professionals who need an easy low carb shrimp broccoli meal without a long cleanup.
  • High in protein: Each serving has 25 grams of protein, which makes this keto shrimp broccoli dish a strong fit for low-carb eating. Protein helps keep you full longer, which is great for diet-conscious individuals and busy parents who need a dinner that actually satisfies.
  • Flexible and family-friendly: You can swap in other vegetables like zucchini, cabbage, snap peas, carrots, or cauliflower if that is what you have on hand. That makes this low carb shrimp recipe easy to adjust for different tastes, seasons, and dietary goals.
  • Big flavor, simple ingredients: The mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger gives this keto shrimp and broccoli recipe a savory, takeout-style taste at home. A little red bell pepper adds color and sweetness, while optional toppings like cashews or sesame seeds add texture.
When you want a meal that is fast, low carb, and full of flavor, this shrimp and broccoli stir fry checks all the boxes.

If you enjoy simple seafood dinners, you may also like this baked shrimp scampi recipe for another quick weeknight option.

For more information on shrimp as a lean protein choice, see WebMD’s shrimp health benefits guide.

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Essential Ingredients for Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli

This section covers every ingredient you need for the keto shrimp broccoli dish, plus a few smart topping ideas. Using fresh ingredients helps the sauce taste brighter and keeps the texture crisp-tender. The list below includes exact amounts, so you can gather everything before you start cooking.

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – Used to sauté the shrimp and vegetables in a hot skillet or wok.
  • 1 pound large shrimp, shells removed – The main protein in this low carb shrimp and broccoli recipe, cooks quickly and stays tender.
  • 2 heaping cups broccoli florets – Adds fiber, volume, and a satisfying bite to the shrimp broccoli recipe.
  • 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced – Brings sweetness, color, and a little extra crunch.

Stir-Fry Sauce

  • 1/4 cup soy sauce – Gives the dish its salty, savory base.
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil – Adds a rich nutty flavor that works well in keto shrimp and broccoli.
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Adds brightness and balances the sauce.
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic – Gives the sauce a strong, fragrant flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon minced ginger – Adds warmth and a fresh stir-fry finish.

Optional Toppings

  • Green onions – Adds a fresh bite and a little sharpness.
  • Cashews – Bring crunch and a richer feel.
  • Sesame seeds – Add texture and a nutty finish.
  • Almonds – Offer extra crunch if you want a heartier topping.
  • Red pepper flakes – Add heat for anyone who likes a little kick.

Special Dietary Options

  • Vegan: Swap shrimp for tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas if you want a plant-based version. Keep in mind that the carb count will change.
  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
  • Low-calorie: Keep the toppings light and use less oil if you want a lighter plate.

For another flavorful seafood dinner, take a look at garlic grilled shrimp for a simple, bold-tasting option that pairs well with vegetables.

ItemAmountRole in Recipe
Olive oil1 tablespoonUsed for sautéing
Large shrimp1 poundMain protein
Broccoli florets2 heaping cupsAdds fiber and bulk
Red bell pepper1Adds color and sweetness

How to Prepare the Perfect Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli: Step-by-Step Guide

First Step: Mix the stir-fry sauce

Start by whisking together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Add 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger. Stir until everything blends into a smooth sauce, then set it aside while you cook the shrimp and vegetables. This small step helps the cooking move quickly once the skillet is hot.

If you like meal prep, you can mix the sauce a few hours early and keep it in the fridge. That makes this easy low carb shrimp broccoli recipe even faster later in the day. It also helps busy parents and working professionals get dinner started without extra stress.

Second Step: Heat the skillet and cook the shrimp

Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it warm up for a few seconds. Once the oil is hot, add the 1 pound of large shrimp and the sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the shrimp turns pink and starts to curl.

Keep a close eye on the shrimp so it does not overcook. Shrimp cooks fast, and once it turns opaque and pink, it is ready for the next step. This is one reason the low carb shrimp recipe works so well for weeknight dinners.

Third Step: Add the broccoli and sauce

Next, add the 2 heaping cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still has a little bite. The sauce should coat the shrimp and vegetables nicely.

If your broccoli florets are on the large side, you may want to give them an extra minute or two. Smaller florets will cook faster and keep the total time closer to 20 minutes. This makes the keto shrimp broccoli recipe a practical choice when you need dinner fast.

Fourth Step: Adjust texture and seasoning

Taste the dish before serving. If you want a little more saltiness, add a splash more soy sauce. If you like more heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also add a quick thickener by stirring in 1 tablespoon cold water mixed with 1 tablespoon cornstarch at the end, but remember that this adds about 6 grams of carbs total.

For a lower-carb finish, skip the cornstarch and let the sauce stay light. Fresh ingredients and healthy fats like sesame oil already give the dish plenty of flavor. That is one reason people love this shrimp broccoli recipe for low-carb eating.

Final Step: Garnish and serve

Serve the dish right away while it is hot. Add optional toppings like green onions, cashews, sesame seeds, almonds, or red pepper flakes. These toppings add color, crunch, and a little extra flavor without making the meal complicated. If you want a full plate, serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

For the best texture, cook the shrimp just until pink and keep the broccoli tender-crisp.

This low carb shrimp and broccoli meal is filling enough for dinner, yet light enough to fit into a keto or Atkins style eating plan. It is also easy to double if you are cooking for the whole family.

Keto Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe 9

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

If shrimp is not available, you still have options. Chicken breast, scallops, or chunks of firm tofu can work in a similar stir-fry method. Chicken takes a little longer to cook, while tofu needs to be browned before the sauce goes in. These swaps change the flavor, but they still fit the same basic cooking style.

If you want to keep the meal seafood-focused, try this with chopped grilled shrimp or pair it with another seafood dish like shrimp kabobs for a simple seafood dinner spread.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Broccoli is the star here, but it is easy to change the vegetables based on what you have. Carrots, zucchini, cabbage, snap peas, or cauliflower all work well, though some will raise the carb count a bit. If you want to keep carbs lower, lean toward zucchini, cauliflower, or cabbage. If you use carrots or snap peas, just watch the portion size.

For the sauce, tamari or coconut aminos can replace soy sauce if you need a gluten-free or soy-light option. You can also add a splash of lime juice, extra ginger, or a little chili paste if you want a sharper taste. The goal is to keep the dish simple, fresh, and easy to make your own.

Mastering Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli: Advanced Tips and Variations

A few small habits can make this keto shrimp and broccoli recipe even better. First, pat the shrimp dry before cooking so it sears instead of steaming. Second, keep the skillet hot enough to cook quickly, but not so hot that the garlic burns. Third, cut the broccoli into even pieces so it cooks at the same speed.

Pro Cooking Techniques

  • Use a wok or large skillet so the shrimp and vegetables have room to cook evenly.
  • Cook the shrimp first, then add the broccoli so you do not overcook the seafood.
  • Stir the sauce at the end so it stays fresh and coats everything well.

Flavor Variations

You can change the taste by adding chili flakes, a squeeze of lemon, or a little toasted sesame seed oil at the end. If you like a sweeter stir-fry style, add more red bell pepper. If you want more crunch, cashews or almonds work well as toppings. The recipe stays flexible while still fitting a low carb shrimp and broccoli meal plan.

Presentation Tips and Make-Ahead Ideas

For a nice plate, spoon the stir-fry into a shallow bowl and top it with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. That simple finish gives the meal a polished look without extra work. If you are prepping ahead, chop the broccoli and bell pepper early, mix the sauce, and store both in separate containers in the fridge. Then dinner only takes a few minutes to finish.

This easy low carb shrimp broccoli dinner is ideal when you want something fast, fresh, and satisfying without a long ingredient list.

How to Store Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli: Best Practices

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let the dish cool first, then portion it into single servings if you want quick lunches or dinners later. This works especially well for meal prep because the recipe already makes 4 servings.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked shrimp and broccoli stir-fry for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe bags or containers and remove as much air as possible. For best texture, freeze in single portions so you can thaw only what you need.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or a little oil. That helps bring back moisture without making the shrimp rubbery. A microwave works too, but the broccoli may soften more. If needed, add a little fresh green onion or a squeeze of lemon after reheating.

Meal Prep Considerations

If you are making this for meal prep, keep the toppings separate until serving time so they stay crisp. This low carb shrimp and broccoli dish still tastes good the next day, which makes it a nice choice for lunches and quick dinners. Just remember to store and reheat it safely.

Nutrition and Recipe Snapshot

This recipe is built for fast cooking and low-carb eating. Here is a quick look at the timing and nutrition for one serving, which is about 1 heaping cup or 1/4 of the full recipe.

DetailsAmount
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time20 minutes
Calories170
Carbohydrates8.2g
Protein25g
Fat4.4g
Saturated Fat0.6g
Cholesterol182mg
Sodium570mg
Fiber2.1g
Sugar3.2g
Net Carbs6.1g
This is a solid pick when you want a low carb shrimp recipe with real staying power from lean protein.
Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli
Keto Shrimp And Broccoli Recipe 10

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli

Is shrimp and broccoli stir fry low carb?

Yes, shrimp and broccoli stir fry is naturally low carb when made at home without sugary sauces or starchy thickeners. A typical serving uses shrimp (0 carbs), broccoli (about 4g net carbs per cup), and low-carb swaps like coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. This recipe delivers just 6g net carbs per serving, fitting keto or Atkins diets perfectly. Sauté shrimp in avocado oil with garlic and ginger for 3-4 minutes until pink, add broccoli and steam for 5 minutes, then toss in sauce. It’s quick (under 20 minutes), high in protein (25g+ per serving), and keeps blood sugar stable. Track carbs with an app like MyFitnessPal for precision.

How many carbs are in low carb shrimp and broccoli?

One serving of low carb shrimp and broccoli stir fry has around 6g net carbs, calculated as total carbs minus fiber. Shrimp contributes 0g, broccoli about 6g total (3g fiber), and minimal from garlic, ginger, and low-carb sauce like tamari or coconut aminos. Avoid cornstarch or honey to stay low. Full macros: 250-300 calories, 25g protein, 15g fat, 9g total carbs (6g net). Use fresh ingredients: 1 lb shrimp, 4 cups broccoli florets, 2 tbsp oil. This makes 4 servings—divide evenly. For accuracy, weigh portions and input into Cronometer. Pair with cauliflower rice (3g net carbs) for a complete meal under 10g net carbs.

How do you make low carb shrimp and broccoli stir fry?

Prep time: 10 minutes, cook time: 10 minutes. Heat 2 tbsp sesame or avocado oil in a wok over medium-high. Add 1 lb peeled shrimp, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 tsp grated ginger; stir-fry 2-3 minutes until shrimp turns pink. Add 4 cups broccoli florets and 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos; cook 5 minutes until tender-crisp. Optional: sliced bell peppers (1/2 cup, 3g net carbs). Thicken with 1 tsp xanthan gum if needed. Serves 4. Tips: Pat shrimp dry for crispiness, don’t overcook broccoli to retain crunch and nutrients. 6g net carbs per serving—refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days.

Can I use other vegetables in low carb shrimp and broccoli?

Yes, swap or add low-carb veggies to customize while keeping net carbs under 8g per serving. Replace some broccoli with zucchini (2g net per cup), cauliflower (3g), cabbage (3g), or asparagus (2g). Skip high-carb options like carrots (6g net). Example: Add 1 cup sliced mushrooms (2g net) or snow peas (4g net, use sparingly). For bell peppers, limit to 1/2 cup (3g net). Stir-fry method stays the same: cook shrimp first, then veggies 4-6 minutes. Taste-test carb impact with a tracker. This flexibility makes it family-friendly—kids love zucchini noodles mixed in. Always prioritize non-starchy veggies for volume without carb spikes.

How long does low carb shrimp and broccoli last in the fridge?

Store cooked low carb shrimp and broccoli stir fry in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to restore moisture—microwaving works but may soften veggies. Freezing: Portion into bags, freeze up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge and reheat. Shrimp stays tender if not overcooked initially. Pro tip: Add fresh lemon juice post-reheat for brightness. Nutrition holds: still 6g net carbs. Meal prep 4 servings Sunday for quick weeknight dinners. Discard if it smells off or looks slimy—safety first. Links to full recipe and keto storage guide for more tips.

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Low Carb Shrimp And Broccoli

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🦐 Enjoy tender, juicy shrimp paired with crisp broccoli in a savory low-carb stir-fry that’s perfect for keto diets!
🥦 High in protein and ready in just 20 minutes, this quick meal keeps you satisfied without the carbs!

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

– 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing

– 1 pound large shrimp, shells removed for main protein

– 2 heaping cups broccoli florets for fiber and bulk

– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced for color and sweetness

– 1/4 cup soy sauce for salty savory base

– 2 tablespoons sesame oil for nutty flavor

– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar for brightness

– 2 teaspoons minced garlic for fragrant flavor

– 1 teaspoon minced ginger for warmth

– green onions for fresh bite

– cashews for crunch

– sesame seeds for nutty finish

– almonds for crunch

– red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions

1-First Step: Mix the stir-fry sauce Start by whisking together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Add 1/4 cup soy sauce, 2 tablespoons sesame oil, 1 tablespoon rice vinegar, 2 teaspoons minced garlic, and 1 teaspoon minced ginger. Stir until everything blends into a smooth sauce, then set it aside while you cook the shrimp and vegetables. This small step helps the cooking move quickly once the skillet is hot.

2-Second Step: Heat the skillet and cook the shrimp Place a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and let it warm up for a few seconds. Once the oil is hot, add the 1 pound of large shrimp and the sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often, until the shrimp turns pink and starts to curl.

3-Third Step: Add the broccoli and sauce Next, add the 2 heaping cups of broccoli florets to the skillet. Pour in the stir-fry sauce and stir everything together. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the broccoli is tender but still has a little bite. The sauce should coat the shrimp and vegetables nicely.

4-Fourth Step: Adjust texture and seasoning Taste the dish before serving. If you want a little more saltiness, add a splash more soy sauce. If you like more heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. You can also add a quick thickener by stirring in 1 tablespoon cold water mixed with 1 tablespoon cornstarch at the end, but remember that this adds about 6 grams of carbs total.

5-Final Step: Garnish and serve Serve the dish right away while it is hot. Add optional toppings like green onions, cashews, sesame seeds, almonds, or red pepper flakes. These toppings add color, crunch, and a little extra flavor without making the meal complicated. If you want a full plate, serve it over cauliflower rice or enjoy it on its own.

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Notes

🥦 Substitute low-carb veggies like zucchini, cabbage, or cauliflower to vary the dish (adjust net carbs).
🦐 Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor in this quick stir-fry.
🌿 Garnish with sesame seeds or nuts for added crunch without extra carbs.

  • Author: Brandi Oshea
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Seafood
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian
  • Diet: Keto

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: about 1 heaping cup (1/4 recipe)
  • Calories: 170 kcal
  • Sugar: 3.2g
  • Sodium: 570mg
  • Fat: 4.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3.8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8.2g
  • Fiber: 2.1g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 182mg

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