Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo

Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is a creamy, comforting pasta dish that feels restaurant-quality but is surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender shrimp, crisp broccoli florets, and perfectly cooked pasta are coated in a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce that’s smooth, cheesy, and full of flavor. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something filling and satisfying, yet elegant enough to serve for a family dinner or casual guests. The combination of seafood and vegetables balances richness with freshness, making this dish a favorite for both pasta lovers and seafood fans.

Ingredients

• 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 cups broccoli florets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• ¼ cup reserved pasta water
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. During the last 2–3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the same pot to blanch them gently. Drain the pasta and broccoli together, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water, and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp in a single layer and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside to avoid overcooking.

Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning
Lower the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese a little at a time until fully melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the Alfredo sauce and toss gently to coat. Return the shrimp to the skillet and stir carefully until everything is evenly combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Variations

• Use chicken instead of shrimp for a classic twist
• Add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables
• Substitute half-and-half for lighter sauce
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with garlic bread or breadsticks
• Pair with a simple green salad
• Sprinkle extra Parmesan on top
• Add lemon wedges for brightness

Prep Time / Cooking Time / Total Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Nutritional Info

This dish is rich in protein from shrimp and calcium from cheese. Nutritional values vary depending on portion size and cream usage.

Conclusion

Shrimp Broccoli Alfredo is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that combines seafood, vegetables, and rich sauce into one satisfying meal. Easy to customize and quick to prepare, it’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.