This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is an irresistibly creamy, rich weeknight pasta that brings together the freshness of crisp-tender broccoli, juicy sautéed shrimp, and silky Parmesan Alfredo sauce, all twirled with luscious noodles. It’s the kind of meal that tastes restaurant-worthy but comes together with just a handful of simple ingredients in half an hour. If you love comfort food with a decadent twist, you’ll want to bookmark this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe for nights when you crave something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is how each ingredient truly shines. These essentials create a dish full of vibrant color, flavor, and creamy texture, making every bite pure joy.
- Shrimp (1 pound, peeled and deveined): The sweet, tender shrimp add protein and seafood flavor that beautifully complements the Alfredo sauce.
- Broccoli florets (2 cups): Their fresh crunch and green color brighten up the dish and add welcome nutrition.
- Fettuccine or linguine pasta (8 ounces): Wide noodles hold the creamy sauce perfectly and feel extra indulgent in every forkful.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the shrimp to golden, juicy perfection.
- Unsalted butter (3 tablespoons): Adds richness and depth to the sauce.
- Garlic, minced (3 cloves): Infuses the Alfredo sauce with fragrant, appetizing aroma.
- Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups): The secret to the luscious, velvety sauce coating every bite.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Gives a nutty, authentic flavor that melts beautifully into the sauce. Freshly grated is best!
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A tiny pinch adds classic warmth to the Alfredo without overpowering.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Balances all the flavors in the dish.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a hint of spice and complexity.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional): Brightens up the finished plate and adds a pop of garden-fresh color.
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
To start this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your favorite fettuccine or linguine pasta and cook according to the package instructions. In the last 2 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot. This trick allows the broccoli to cook until it’s just tender yet brightly green, and saves you from washing an extra pan! Once both are done, drain well and set aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While your pasta and broccoli work their magic, set a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in the olive oil. As soon as the oil shimmers, toss in the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side; you’ll notice they turn pink and curl up when they’re perfectly cooked. Don’t overdo it — shrimp cook lightning-fast and you want them plump and juicy. Once they’re just done, scoop them out and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet (no need to rinse — those shrimp juices are flavor gold), lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for just about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream, then whisk in the grated Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and let it bubble gently for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring often — you’ll see the sauce thicken and turn wonderfully creamy.
Step 4: Combine and Toss
Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet, then add in the drained pasta and broccoli. Using tongs or two big forks, gently toss everything together until every strand of pasta and every piece of broccoli and shrimp is coated with that gorgeous Alfredo sauce. Let it warm through for another minute or two so the flavors meld, then turn off the heat.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Spoon generous portions onto plates and, if you like, shower the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe with fresh chopped parsley for a colorful, fresh finishing touch. Serve immediately for the perfect creamy, cozy pasta night!
How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A finishing sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley brightens the entire dish, adding a touch of green that pops against the creamy background. For a little extra flair, a dusting of freshly grated Parmesan or a twist of cracked black pepper can make your plate look and taste extra-special. If you’re feeling bold, try adding a squeeze of fresh lemon for a zippy edge that wakes up all the flavors!
Side Dishes
Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is incredibly rich and satisfying on its own, but it pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed lightly with vinaigrette or a loaf of warm, crusty bread perfect for mopping up every bit of sauce. Lightly roasted veggies, such as asparagus or cherry tomatoes, make an excellent side if you want more color and crunch on your table.
Creative Ways to Present
For a restaurant-inspired touch, try twirling the pasta into neat nests with tongs and stacking the shrimp artfully on top. Serving in wide, shallow bowls lets the sauce pool invitingly around the pasta. Or portion the pasta into individual ramekins and broil for a minute with extra Parmesan for a bubbly, golden gratin effect. The Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe shines no matter how you serve it!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe (lucky you!), let it cool to room temperature and transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, but all the flavors will mellow and meld in the best way.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky, as the sauce may separate on thawing, but you can do it in a pinch! Place cooled portions of Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in freezer-safe containers. For the best results, thaw overnight in the fridge and expect the texture to be a bit less silky, but the flavors will still satisfy those Alfredo cravings.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of milk or a little extra cream to the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Stir frequently to bring the sauce back together, and be careful not to overcook the shrimp as you heat through. A dash of fresh Parmesan just before serving always helps revive the cheesy goodness!
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work beautifully in Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or under cold running water, then pat dry well before cooking to achieve the perfect sear.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the fettuccine or linguine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. The creamy Alfredo and all the toppings are naturally gluten-free, so it transforms easily.
What protein can I substitute for shrimp?
If you’re not in the mood for seafood or working with allergies, chicken breast (cut into bite-size pieces and sautéed) is a classic alternative. Even sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas are delicious vegetarian swaps for this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe.
How can I lighten up the Alfredo sauce?
For a lighter version, replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be a bit less thick. Low-fat cream cheese can also be stirred in for creaminess without all the richness.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is endlessly adaptable. Try stirring in baby spinach, peas, or roasted red peppers for extra color and flavor variety.
Final Thoughts
There’s something special about sitting down to a homemade Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, especially when it tastes like a labor of love but comes together so simply. With fresh ingredients and a creamy, cheesy sauce, this pasta is sure to win over anyone at your table. Give it a try soon — and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite!
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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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful dish with this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo recipe. Succulent shrimp, tender broccoli, and a rich Alfredo sauce come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package directions. Add broccoli in the last 2 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In a skillet, cook shrimp in olive oil until pink. Remove and set aside.
- Make the Alfredo Sauce: Melt butter, sauté garlic, then add cream, Parmesan, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Simmer until thickened.
- Combine and Serve: Add shrimp, pasta, and broccoli to the sauce. Toss to coat. Serve garnished with parsley.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Consider adding mushrooms or using chicken instead of shrimp.
- Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the dish’s flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 240mg
