Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes | Servings: 4
Introduction
Creamy shrimp and broccoli Alfredo pasta recipe is the perfect comfort food when you're craving something rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Tender shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a silky homemade Alfredo sauce made with cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. Every bite is creamy, flavorful, and packed with delicious textures.
This restaurant-quality pasta dish is simple enough for busy weeknights but elegant enough to serve for family dinners or special occasions. The juicy shrimp add sweetness and protein, while the broccoli brings freshness and color that perfectly balances the richness of the sauce. Best of all, this entire meal comes together in about 35 minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have on hand.
If you're looking for a comforting pasta recipe that always impresses, this creamy shrimp and broccoli Alfredo is guaranteed to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta (340 g)
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined (450 g)
- 3 cups broccoli florets (300 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (15 ml)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (3 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 g)
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream (360 ml)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (100 g)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning (1 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. During the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
- Season the shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and season with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink, lightly golden, and opaque. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
- Prepare the Alfredo sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and add the Italian seasoning and black pepper. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes.
- Add the cheese: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce becomes smooth, creamy, and slightly thickened.
- Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything in the Alfredo sauce. Return the shrimp to the skillet and mix until heated through. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for a silkier sauce.
- Serve immediately: Transfer the pasta to serving bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese, freshly cracked black pepper, and chopped parsley if desired.
Tips for the Best Shrimp Alfredo Pasta
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce.
- Do not overcook the shrimp, or they may become rubbery.
- Reserve a little pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce.
- Cook the pasta just until al dente for the best texture.
- Add red pepper flakes for a little heat and extra flavor.
FAQs
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes. Simply thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.
Q2: Which pasta works best with Alfredo sauce?
Fettuccine is the classic choice, but linguine, penne, or spaghetti also work beautifully.
Q3: Can this creamy shrimp and broccoli Alfredo pasta recipe be made ahead?
Yes. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy shrimp and broccoli Alfredo pasta pairs perfectly with garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of warm breadsticks. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley adds the perfect finishing touch.
Final Thoughts
This creamy shrimp and broccoli Alfredo pasta recipe combines tender shrimp, vibrant broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich Parmesan cream sauce that feels like something you'd order at your favorite Italian restaurant. Easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests, this comforting pasta dish is sure to become a regular favorite in your dinner rotation.