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
Scale
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.
