Name: Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched); 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional); 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo is a decadent dish that’s both indulgent and wholesome. The succulent shrimp pair perfectly with the creamy, buttery Alfredo sauce, while the broccoli adds a vibrant pop of color and a touch of freshness to the rich flavors. It’s the kind of dish that feels both comforting and elegant, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering. With the combination of seafood, vegetables, and creamy pasta, it’s a one-pot meal that covers all the bases.

Ingredients

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cups broccoli florets (steamed or blanched)
12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
1/2 cup unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set them aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Add the Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg (if using). Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add the cooked pasta, broccoli, and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add the reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach your desired consistency.
Once everything is combined and heated through, garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
Different vegetables: You can swap the broccoli for other vegetables like spinach, peas, or sun-dried tomatoes for a different flavor and texture.
Cheese: For a richer flavor, try adding a bit of cream cheese or a different hard cheese like Pecorino Romano to the sauce.
Chicken instead of shrimp: If you prefer chicken, you can easily substitute shrimp with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce, or heat in the microwave in 30-second intervals until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works fine. Just make sure to thaw and drain the shrimp thoroughly before cooking to avoid excess water.

2. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While fettuccine is the traditional choice for Alfredo, you can use any type of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or linguine.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

The Alfredo sauce can be made ahead of time, but the shrimp and pasta are best cooked fresh. To reheat, gently warm the sauce and toss with freshly cooked pasta and shrimp.

4. How do I make the sauce thicker?

If the sauce isn’t thick enough, let it simmer a bit longer until it reaches your desired consistency, or add a bit more Parmesan cheese for extra thickness.

5. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap the regular pasta for a gluten-free variety, and be sure to check that your Parmesan cheese is gluten-free.

6. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half as a lighter alternative, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. For the best texture, heavy cream is recommended.

7. How can I add more flavor to the sauce?

To add more depth to the sauce, consider incorporating fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano. You can also add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, tangy flavor.

8. Can I use pre-made Alfredo sauce?

While you can use pre-made Alfredo sauce for a quicker option, making it from scratch with butter, cream, and Parmesan gives a fresher, richer flavor.

9. Can I make this dish without Parmesan cheese?

While Parmesan adds a lot of flavor, you can substitute it with another hard cheese like Grana Padano, Pecorino Romano, or even a mild cheddar in a pinch.

10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a dairy-free butter substitute, a plant-based cream (like coconut cream), and a non-dairy Parmesan alternative.

Conclusion

Shrimp and Broccoli Alfredo is a delicious, creamy, and satisfying meal that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the freshness of broccoli and the succulence of shrimp. It’s a comforting dish that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special dinners. Whether you’re a fan of classic pasta dishes or just love shrimp, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Easy to customize with different vegetables or protein, it’s a versatile dish that everyone will enjoy.