Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

The moment you twirl a forkful of silky Alfredo-coated pasta, dotted with plump shrimp and vibrant broccoli, you know you’re in for a treat. This is comfort food at its finest—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, yet balanced with the freshness of tender green florets. The aroma of garlic butter mingling with Parmesan will fill your kitchen and make it almost impossible to wait until dinner is served.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe was born from my love of classic fettuccine Alfredo but with a desire to add both the sweet succulence of shrimp and the nutritious crunch of broccoli. It’s a nod to those cozy weeknights when you want something indulgent but still fresh, a dish that brings the family together at the table without too much fuss.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Alfredo sauce, originally from Rome, was first created in the early 20th century by Alfredo di Lelio. While the Italian version was simply butter and Parmesan tossed with pasta, the American adaptation evolved into the rich cream-based sauce we know today. Adding shrimp gives a coastal twist, while broccoli is a more modern addition for color, texture, and nutrition.

Why You’ll Love Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

Versatile: Works for both a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable pantry staples and seasonal vegetables.

Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish.

Customizable: Swap pasta shapes, try different veggies, or adjust spice levels.

Crowd-Pleasing: A combination of creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender pasta is universally loved.

Make-Ahead Friendly: Sauce and shrimp can be prepared ahead for faster assembly.

Great for Leftovers: Reheats well without losing flavor or texture.

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

A great Alfredo is all about balance and timing. Here’s how to make yours unforgettable:

1. Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh or thawed shrimp cook quickly and stay juicy.
2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Keep it slightly al dente so it finishes cooking in the sauce.
3. Add Broccoli at the Right Time: Blanch or steam briefly to keep it bright and crisp-tender.
4. Reserve Pasta Water: A splash can help loosen and emulsify the sauce.

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

To make this recipe smooth and stress-free, gather these essentials:

Large Skillet: For cooking shrimp and sauce together.
Pasta Pot: Spacious enough to cook pasta without sticking.
Strainer: For draining pasta and broccoli.
Wooden Spoon: Gentle on nonstick surfaces and great for stirring sauce.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: To keep flavors balanced.

Ingredients in Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

The magic lies in the harmony of each ingredient working together:

1. Fettuccine Pasta: 12 ounces, provides the classic base that holds the creamy sauce beautifully.
2. Large Shrimp: 1 pound, peeled and deveined for tender, juicy bites.
3. Broccoli Florets: 3 cups, for a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich sauce.
4. Butter: 4 tablespoons, creates a silky base for the sauce.
5. Garlic: 4 cloves minced, infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.
6. Heavy Cream: 1 ½ cups, for a rich, velvety texture.
7. Parmesan Cheese: 1 cup freshly grated, adds nutty, savory flavor.
8. Salt: 1 teaspoon, to enhance all the flavors.
9. Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, for gentle warmth.
10. Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon, to help sear the shrimp without burning butter.

Ingredient Substitutions

Fettuccine Pasta: Use penne, linguine, or spaghetti.
Heavy Cream: Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper taste.
Shrimp: Use scallops or diced chicken breast.
Broccoli: Swap for asparagus or spinach.

Ingredient Spotlight

Parmesan Cheese: Opt for freshly grated Parmesan instead of pre-shredded for a smoother melt and better flavor.

Shrimp: Medium to large shrimp are ideal—they cook quickly and stay tender.

Instructions for Making Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

Let’s turn those ingredients into a dish worth savoring:

1. Preheat Your Equipment: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil for pasta and broccoli.
2. Combine Ingredients: Cook pasta until al dente according to package instructions. In the last 2 minutes, add broccoli florets. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
4. Assemble the Dish: Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.
5. Cook to Perfection: In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic, cooking until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in Parmesan until melted.
6. Finishing Touches: Return shrimp, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding pasta water as needed to loosen sauce.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Plate immediately, garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper.

Texture & Flavor Secrets

The tender shrimp and al dente pasta contrast beautifully with the creamy sauce. Broccoli adds a light crunch, while Parmesan deepens the savory notes. A hint of garlic ties it all together, making each bite feel luxurious.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

• Reserve pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for sauces.
• Warm your serving plates so the pasta stays hot longer.
• Use freshly grated cheese for better texture and melt.

What to Avoid

• Overcooking shrimp—they turn rubbery fast.
• Letting the sauce boil too hard—it can separate.
• Skipping seasoning at each stage—layering flavor is key.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 620

Note: These are approximate values.

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can cook the shrimp and blanch the broccoli ahead of time, then store in the fridge for up to a day. The sauce can also be made a few hours in advance—just reheat gently and combine before serving. Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated with a splash of cream.

How to Serve Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo

Serve in warm pasta bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Pair with garlic bread and a crisp side salad for a complete meal.

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Turn into a pasta bake with extra cheese on top.
• Serve chilled as a creamy pasta salad with added cherry tomatoes.
• Spoon over baked potatoes for a hearty twist.

Additional Tips

Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for subtle warmth. Keep the pasta slightly undercooked before combining with sauce to avoid mushiness.

Make It a Showstopper

Twirl pasta into nests before plating and top with shrimp for a restaurant-style presentation. Use a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of microgreens for added elegance.

Variations to Try

• Cajun Alfredo: Add 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning to the shrimp before cooking.
• Lemon Garlic Alfredo: Add fresh lemon zest and juice for brightness.
• Veggie Lover’s Alfredo: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or peas for more vegetables.

FAQ’s

Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A1: Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking.

Q2: Can I make this without cream?
A2: Yes, use a mixture of milk and a thickener like flour, though it will be lighter.

Q3: Can I add wine to the sauce?
A3: You can, but it changes the flavor profile significantly.

Q4: How can I make it spicier?
A4: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for gentle heat.

Q5: Will gluten-free pasta work?
A5: Absolutely, just follow its specific cooking time.

Q6: Can I double this recipe?
A6: Yes, but use a large enough skillet to toss the pasta evenly.

Q7: How do I reheat without drying out?
A7: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk.

Q8: Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
A8: Yes, just add them in at the end to warm through.

Q9: Can I freeze this dish?
A9: Not recommended, as cream sauces can separate when frozen.

Q10: What’s the best pasta shape for Alfredo?
A10: Fettuccine is traditional, but any shape that holds sauce works well.

Conclusion

This Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo is a plateful of pure comfort, marrying the richness of Alfredo sauce with the freshness of broccoli and the sweetness of shrimp. Trust me, you’re going to love this—it’s simple enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for guests.

Watch How to Make Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo