If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, indulgent, and packed with vibrant flavors, this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine tender shrimp nestled among bright green broccoli florets, all generously coated in a rich and velvety Alfredo sauce that clings lovingly to every bite of perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and tastes that feels fancy but comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. The balance of fresh seafood, crisp veggies, and luscious creaminess makes this recipe a steadfast favorite, guaranteed to steal the spotlight at your dining table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple, yet they each play a starring role to build the depth, texture, and color of this dish. From the succulent shrimp to the fresh broccoli and creamy Parmesan, everything works in harmony.
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp bring a sweet, tender protein that cooks quickly and adds great flavor.
- 2 cups broccoli florets: These provide a contrasting crunch and a pop of vibrant green that brightens the plate.
- 12 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta: The flat noodles help the creamy Alfredo sauce cling perfectly with every forkful.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the shrimp gently without overwhelming their flavor.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic creates a fragrant foundation that elevates the Alfredo sauce.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: The star ingredient that makes the sauce luxuriously rich and smooth.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor plus natural thickening power to the sauce.
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds silkiness and a luscious mouthfeel to the sauce base.
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste): Enhances all the layers of flavor without overpowering.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds a subtle heat that balances the creaminess.
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat): If you love a little kick, these add a nice burst of spice.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional): Introduces herbaceous notes for additional depth and warmth.
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish): Adds a fresh, herbaceous brightness and a lovely color contrast at the end.
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your fettuccine and cook according to the package directions. A clever trick here is to toss in the broccoli florets during the last 3-4 minutes of cooking, so they become tender but remain bright green and slightly crisp. Once done, drain everything together and keep about half a cup of that starchy pasta water handy—it can be a lifesaver to loosen the sauce later if it needs it.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
While the pasta and broccoli are doing their thing, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and let them cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque—this quick sear locks in juiciness and flavor. Once out of the pan, set them aside gently; they’ll finish cooking once reunited with the sauce.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter on medium heat, then add the minced garlic, letting it sauté until beautifully fragrant (about one minute). Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan until the sauce transforms into a creamy, cheesy dream. Now, season with salt, pepper, optional red pepper flakes, and the Italian seasoning if you want that layered herbal touch. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for another couple of minutes until it thickens up nicely.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, Shrimp, and Sauce
Time for the magic moment. Add the pasta and broccoli right into the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together so every strand of fettuccine and every bite of broccoli gets coated in that luscious sauce. If it feels too thick, slowly stir in some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency. Finally, fold the shrimp back in and let the whole dish warm through for a minute or two.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
Dish out generous portions, sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness, and dive into this creamy, comforting wonder. The balance of juicy shrimp, crisp broccoli, and dreamy Alfredo sauce could turn any meal into a celebration.
How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic finishing touch that lends a pop of vibrant color and a delicate herbal note. You might also consider grating extra Parmesan over the top or adding a squeeze of lemon for brightness if you really want to elevate each bite.
Side Dishes
Since this recipe is rich and filling, pairing it with light sides works best. Think along the lines of a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus with a hint of lemon zest. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls also complement the creamy pasta and help scoop up every last bit of that glorious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in mini skillet dishes or individual pasta bowls, garnished with colorful edible flowers or microgreens. Another idea is to dish it into hollowed-out parmesan bowls if you want to impress guests with style and flavor simultaneously.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. The pasta will keep well for up to 3 days, making it perfect for easy lunches or next-day dinners that still feel special.
Freezing
This Alfredo pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but if you do need to freeze leftovers, do so without the shrimp to maintain quality. Freeze the pasta and sauce separately in airtight containers for up to 2 months, then add freshly cooked shrimp after reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat your leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back that creamy texture. Microwave works too—just heat in short bursts while stirring to prevent the sauce from breaking.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture that can affect the sauce’s texture.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Fettuccine is traditional because its wide, flat shape holds the sauce beautifully, but linguine, tagliatelle, or even penne work wonderfully too.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Sure! Simply omit the shrimp and consider adding mushrooms, artichokes, or sun-dried tomatoes to keep it hearty and delicious.
How do I adjust the heat level?
Red pepper flakes provide a gentle warmth, but feel free to increase the amount or add a dash of cayenne pepper if you like a spicier kick.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Yes, it reheats well, making it a great option for prepping ahead. Just store components separately for the best texture when you reheat.
Final Thoughts
I am genuinely excited for you to try this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe because it’s such a rewarding mix of flavors and textures that feels both comforting and elegant. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and empty plates. Give it a go—you just might find your new favorite creamy pasta meal!
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Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that combines succulent sautéed shrimp with tender broccoli florets in a rich Parmesan-infused Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings for Italian-inspired comfort food.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 12 oz fettuccine or your preferred pasta
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions. During the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling water. Once the pasta is al dente and the broccoli is tender, drain both and set aside. Reserve about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Cook the Shrimp: While the pasta and broccoli cook, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer, stirring occasionally. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes if using, and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to simmer another 2 to 3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine the Pasta, Broccoli, Shrimp, and Sauce: Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss thoroughly so that the pasta and broccoli are evenly coated. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and let everything heat through for an additional 1 to 2 minutes.
- Serve & Enjoy: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately, enjoying the rich, creamy, and flavorful Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
- You can substitute fettuccine with any pasta you prefer, such as linguine or penne.
- For a little heat, add red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Make sure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
