Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is pure comfort in a bowl: a swirl of tender fettuccine pasta tossed in creamy Parmesan sauce, with juicy shrimp and vibrant broccoli nestled in every bite. This dish brings restaurant-level indulgence right into your own kitchen, all in just 30 minutes. It’s ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you want to impress with minimal fuss. Let’s make this classic favorite you’ll crave again and again!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo couldn’t be easier, and every item here brings its own flair. Each one plays a starring role, contributing flavor, creaminess, and that signature pop of color that makes this dish so inviting.

• Fettuccine Pasta: Flat, wide noodles perfectly catch the creamy Alfredo sauce, making every bite luscious.
• Large Shrimp (1 lb, peeled and deveined): Succulent shrimp cooks quickly and soaks in all the garlic butter flavor.
• Broccoli Florets (2 cups): Adds a fresh crunch and bright green color, balancing the richness of the sauce.
• Butter (3 tablespoons): Creates a silky base for sautéing shrimp and garlic.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with irresistible aroma and depth.
• Heavy Cream (1½ cups): Delivers that classic Alfredo silkiness and body—feel free to swap for half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Parmesan Cheese (1 cup, grated): The star of the sauce, melting smoothly for a cheesy, nutty finish.
• Salt (½ teaspoon): Brings out the flavors in every ingredient.
• Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Adds a subtle kick to each creamy mouthful.
• Ground Nutmeg (pinch): The secret ingredient that gives Alfredo its signature warmth—just a whisper does wonders.
• Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens up the finished plate and adds a pop of freshness.

How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Cook Pasta and Broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine and give it an occasional stir to keep things separated. When the timer hits 3 minutes before the pasta is al dente, toss in your broccoli florets and let them cook alongside the noodles. Drain both together—super easy—and set aside. This method ensures the broccoli is crisp-tender and the pasta perfectly cooked.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Shrimp

Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s bubbling, add your minced garlic and let it sizzle for a minute until fragrant—don’t let it brown. Next, add your shrimp, spreading them into a single layer. Cook them just until they turn pink and start to curl, usually 3-4 minutes. Overcooked shrimp can get rubbery, so keep an eye out! Remove the shrimp and set them aside; their residual heat keeps them juicy.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream along with the salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. Stir everything together and simmer gently for about 3 minutes. This is when the kitchen starts to smell like your favorite Italian trattoria! Once the cream slightly thickens, sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and keep stirring until the sauce is smooth, glossy, and utterly irresistible.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked shrimp, pasta, and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything gently so each piece gets coated in that dreamy Alfredo sauce. Cook for a couple more minutes to heat everything through—you want those flavors to mingle! Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then get ready to serve your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo while it’s piping hot.

How to Serve Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo

Garnishes

A generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley is my go-to. It adds color and just the right hint of freshness. If you’re feeling fancy, a little extra Parmesan or freshly ground black pepper on top never hurts—each bite feels like a celebration.

Side Dishes

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is rich and filling, but a tangy Caesar or mixed green salad keeps things balanced and light. Warm, crusty bread or garlic knots are perfect for mopping up all the extra sauce—trust me, you won’t want a drop to go to waste!

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party twist, twirl the fettuccine into little nests with tongs and arrange the shrimp and broccoli right on top for an Instagram-worthy plate. Serving in individual bowls with a lemon wedge on the side brings a fresh touch and brightens up the meal beautifully.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo keeps surprisingly well in the fridge! Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and store them for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it chills, which just makes it even more delicious when you reheat it.

Freezing

If you want to freeze Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo, let it cool completely first. Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. It’ll keep for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, warm your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently for an even, creamy texture, and enjoy your leftovers every bit as much as the first time!

FAQs

Can I use a different pasta shape instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is classic for Alfredo, penne, linguine, or even spaghetti work well. Just aim for a shape that will hold onto that velvety sauce.

Is it possible to make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream and use a plant-based Parmesan alternative, plus vegan butter. The taste will be different but still creamy and satisfying.

Can I add other vegetables besides broccoli?

Definitely! Try adding sautéed mushrooms, spinach, bell peppers, or even asparagus tips. Broccoli just happens to pair especially well with the sauce and shrimp.

What’s the best way to keep the shrimp from overcooking?

Shrimp cooks quickly, so keep a close eye and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque. They’ll finish warming through once mixed back in with the pasta and sauce.

How do I prevent the Alfredo sauce from turning grainy?

Make sure your heat stays at a gentle simmer when adding cheese, and always whisk until the Parmesan is fully melted. Using freshly grated cheese (not pre-shredded) also ensures the smoothest, creamiest sauce for your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo.

Final Thoughts

Once you try Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo at home, it’s sure to become a staple for family dinners or special occasions! It’s quick, decadent, and the kind of cozy meal that brings everyone to the table. Give it a whirl and let your kitchen fill with cheesy, garlicky goodness!

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