Creamy Shrimp & Broccoli Alfredo
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Servings: 4
Ingredients
For the Pasta & Toppings:
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12 oz (340g) fettuccine or linguine
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1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
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2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
For the Alfredo Sauce:
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2 tbsp butter
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4 garlic cloves, minced
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1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half & half for lighter version)
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1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1/4 cup cream cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta and Broccoli
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
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Add the broccoli florets during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
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Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Shrimp
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In a large skillet over medium heat, heat 2 tbsp olive oil or butter.
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Season shrimp with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
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Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side or until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce
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In the same skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t burn it).
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir constantly.
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Whisk in the Parmesan cheese and cream cheese (if using). Cook until smooth and creamy — about 3–5 minutes.
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Add salt, pepper, and nutmeg to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
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Add the drained pasta and broccoli into the sauce. Toss gently to coat.
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Add the cooked shrimp back in and mix everything together. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if sauce is too thick.
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Simmer for 1–2 more minutes until heated through.
Step 5: Serve
Plate the pasta hot, with extra Parmesan, freshly ground pepper, or parsley if desired. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad.
Serving Suggestions
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Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks
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Caesar salad or arugula salad
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Roasted asparagus or green beans
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Glass of chilled white wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)
Storage & Reheating
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Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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Reheat: Warm slowly over low heat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk. Avoid microwave to prevent rubbery shrimp.
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Freezing: Not ideal due to cream and seafood, but leftovers can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 640–700 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugar | 3g |
| Sodium | 780mg |
Note: Values may vary depending on portion size and ingredients.