If you are searching for a luscious, comforting dish that effortlessly brings together flavors of the sea and garden freshness, this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is an absolute winner. Imagine tender shrimp, vibrant green broccoli, and creamy Alfredo sauce coating perfectly cooked fettuccine pasta—a harmony of textures and tastes that feels indulgent yet approachable. Whether it’s a weeknight supper or a special occasion, this recipe delivers a bowl of rich, satisfying goodness that never fails to impress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe lies in its simplicity. Using just a handful of essential ingredients, each component plays a vital role in creating that silky sauce, comforting pasta, and fresh bursts of flavor that make the dish unforgettable.
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta: The perfect sturdy noodle to hold onto the creamy Alfredo sauce with every bite.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds tender, sweet seafood flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets: Brings vibrant color, texture, and a mild earthy note to balance the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used to sauté shrimp gently without overpowering their natural flavor.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: The foundation for the creamy sauce, adding silky richness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: A punch of aromatic flavor that infuses the sauce with depth.
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream: Creates that dreamy, velvety Alfredo sauce texture.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory sharpness and thickens the sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper: Provides subtle spice to balance the creaminess without overwhelming.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in perfect harmony.
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional): A little heat for those who like a gentle kick.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Fresh herbaceous brightness and a splash of color to finish the dish.
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. About three minutes before the pasta finishes cooking, add the broccoli florets directly to the pot. This method ensures the broccoli stays tender-crisp and vibrant green. Once done, drain everything and set aside to prepare for the sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place the shrimp in the skillet and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn a beautiful pink and become opaque. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy and tender. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set them aside to add back in later.
Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned—it’s the garlic that builds the savory backbone of this sauce. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, and the optional crushed red pepper flakes. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens just enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 4: Combine Pasta, Broccoli, and Shrimp
Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything carefully to coat in the creamy sauce. Then, gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the pan and let it all warm through for another 1 to 2 minutes. This ensures every forkful bursts with those harmonious flavors and textures.
How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped parsley not only adds a fresh, herbaceous note but also brightens up the creamy palette of the dish with its vibrant green color. For extra flair, a light dusting of additional Parmesan can bring that cheesy richness one step further. If you enjoy a little heat, a final pinch of red pepper flakes right before serving can elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe pairs wonderfully with simple sides that won’t overshadow its hearty richness. Consider a crisp Caesar salad or a light arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to add a refreshing contrast. Crusty garlic bread or warm Italian breadsticks are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce—trust me, you’ll want every last drop!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, try serving the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in individual shallow bowls with a beautiful swirl of sauce and an extra shrimp perched on top. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for an elegant touch. Alternatively, pile the pasta in a large family-style dish directly at the table to invite everyone to dig in together—it’s a perfect way to share both food and fun.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying a hearty meal, you might have some leftovers. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where they will keep well for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken upon cooling, so don’t worry—it will loosen up again when reheated gently.
Freezing
While cream-based sauces are not usually freezer-friendly because of texture changes, you can freeze the shrimp and broccoli separately for up to 2 months. For best results, cook fresh pasta and sauce when you thaw the seafood and veggies to keep all the components tasting their best.
Reheating
When reheating the Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of milk or cream if the sauce feels too thick, stirring frequently until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can cause the sauce to separate and the shrimp to toughen.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture. This shortcut is especially handy to save prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream in the sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce, though the texture will be less rich and velvety. Just be careful not to boil the sauce aggressively, as it might curdle.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely. Replace the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta of your choice. Just be sure to check the cooking times as gluten-free pasta tends to cook differently, and adjust accordingly.
What if I don’t like spicy food—should I skip the red pepper flakes?
Yes, the crushed red pepper flakes are entirely optional. Leaving them out will result in a milder, more comforting Alfredo that highlights the creamy and savory elements without any heat.
How do I keep the broccoli bright green and crisp in the dish?
Adding the broccoli florets to the pasta water during the last 3 minutes of cooking ensures they’re tender yet crisp and retain that beautiful green color. Avoid overcooking to prevent mushiness.
Final Thoughts
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe is one of those dishes that always brings a smile to the table. Its creamy, dreamy sauce combined with tender shrimp and fresh broccoli creates a balance of comfort and freshness that’s hard to beat. Trust me, once you make this, it becomes an easy favorite you’ll want to return to time and again. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones around, and enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness!
Print
Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Pescatarian
Description
This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a rich and creamy Italian-American main course featuring tender shrimp, fresh broccoli florets, and fettuccine pasta tossed in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this dish combines the sweetness of shrimp with the earthy crunch of broccoli, all enveloped in a velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, garlic, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta and Vegetables
- 12 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
Shrimp
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Pinch of crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta and broccoli: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine according to package directions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets to the boiling water during the last 3 minutes of cooking. Drain both together and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce is slightly thickened.
- Combine pasta, broccoli, and shrimp: Add the drained fettuccine and broccoli to the skillet with the sauce and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan and gently stir to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through.
- Serve: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley and serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time; just add them at the end to warm through.
- You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce variation.
- Frozen broccoli can be used as a convenient alternative; thaw and drain it before adding to the pasta.
