If you are craving a meal that brings together creamy indulgence and fresh vibrant flavors, this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is exactly what your dinner table needs. It masterfully combines succulent shrimp, tender broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked fettuccine all coated in a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce. This dish is not only comforting and satisfying but also offers a beautiful balance of textures and colors that will brighten any weeknight meal. Whether you are cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe lies not only in the cooking technique but in the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role: from the creamy Parmesan-rich sauce to the fresh broccoli that adds a pop of green and crunch, and of course, the plump shrimp that bring a tender seafood sweetness to the plate.
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto the creamy Alfredo sauce with every twirl.
- 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined): Look for fresh or thawed frozen shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Adds vibrant color and a slightly crunchy texture that complements the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté the shrimp gently, enhancing their natural flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Aromatic and essential for the depth of flavor in this dish.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Creates a rich base for simmering the sauce and cooking the garlic.
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream: The heart of the Alfredo sauce, making it luxuriously smooth.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds sharp, nutty, and cheesy goodness that melts beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and depth to the sauce.
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle kick of spicy warmth.
- ¼ cup chopped parsley (for garnish): Freshens up the dish with a herbaceous brightness and a pop of green.
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package directions until just al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking to soften them slightly while retaining that perfect crunch. Once done, drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside, so they’re ready to soak up that delicious sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
In a large skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque—take care not to overcook them, as shrimp can get rubbery quickly. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside. These perfectly cooked shrimp will bring a delicate, sweet seafood flavor when combined later.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant—garlic here sets the aroma and base flavor stage for the sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if you want a touch of heat. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 2 to 3 minutes or until the sauce thickens to that perfect silky consistency.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet along with the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss everything gently but thoroughly to ensure each strand of fettuccine and piece of broccoli is enveloped in the creamy Alfredo sauce. Let it all cook together for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until everything is heated through and deliciously united. This step really brings out the harmony of flavors you can’t wait to dig into.
How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a bright green touch that elevates the dish visually and adds a fresh herbal note. If you like a bit of zest, a light grating of lemon zest on top also pairs beautifully with the shrimp and cream.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is a fulfilling main course on its own, but you can serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread. The bread is perfect for mopping up any extra Alfredo sauce left on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For an impressive dinner presentation, serve the pasta piled high on warmed plates and garnish with a sprig of parsley and a few extra whole shrimp on top. You could even add some toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of chili oil for an unexpected twist in texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon standing, so you might want to loosen it with a splash of cream or milk when reheating.
Freezing
Freezing this dish is possible but not ideal because the creamy sauce can separate. If you do freeze it, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.
Reheating
Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking. Add a little cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture and avoid drying out the shrimp and pasta.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! Just be sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking, pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, and adjust cooking time as frozen shrimp can release water during cooking.
Is it possible to substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
You can use half-and-half or even whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich or thick. If you choose a lighter option, consider adding a bit more Parmesan for flavor and thickness.
Can I use other vegetables instead of broccoli?
Definitely! Cauliflower, asparagus, or snap peas all work wonderfully and add a different twist on this creamy pasta dish.
How can I make this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe spicy?
Including crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce is a great way to add heat. You can also finish with a few dashes of hot sauce or sprinkle with chili oil just before serving.
Can I prepare this pasta vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan or dairy-free version, substitute the cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream and use vegan Parmesan alternatives. Swap shrimp for sautéed mushrooms or tofu to keep that protein element.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is truly a keeper — it strikes a delightful balance between creamy, savory, and fresh, with a quick and approachable cooking process that fits perfectly into busy weeknights or special dinners alike. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s such a favorite, and you might find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy every comforting, flavorful bite!
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Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
A rich and creamy Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo combining tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and fettuccine pasta in a luscious Parmesan-heavy cream sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner with classic Italian-American flavors.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Shrimp and Seasonings
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¼ cup chopped parsley, for garnish
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook Pasta and Broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the boiling pasta water. Drain the pasta and broccoli together and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
- Prepare Alfredo Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Cook the sauce for 2–3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
- Combine and Heat Through: Return the cooked shrimp, drained pasta, and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently to coat thoroughly. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped parsley over the top before serving to add freshness and color.
Notes
- Use frozen broccoli if fresh is unavailable; thaw and drain well before adding.
- For a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for added brightness and acidity if desired.
