This Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy and delightful dish that combines tender shrimp, fresh broccoli, and rich Alfredo sauce over your favorite pasta. It’s a comforting meal that never disappoints!
I love how the vibrant green broccoli adds a pop of color and nutrition. Plus, who can resist that creamy goodness? It’s perfect for a cozy dinner anytime—I often make it when I want something special yet easy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This is the classic choice for Alfredo. If you don’t have it, any long pasta like linguine or spaghetti works well too. A gluten-free pasta can also be an option if needed.
Shrimp: Fresh shrimp is best for flavor, but frozen shrimp works great too—just ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, try chicken or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets give a vibrant touch. You can use frozen broccoli as a quick alternative, just adjust the cooking time slightly. Spinach can be a nice substitute too if you’re looking for a different green.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or even pureed cauliflower for some creaminess. Just remember, it may change the texture a bit, but it’s still delicious!
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and tastes amazing. If you don’t have Parmesan, Pecorino Romano is a good alternative. Nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
How Do You Get Creamy Alfredo Sauce Without It Being Too Thick?
The key to a perfectly creamy Alfredo sauce lies in how you combine your ingredients. Start by cooking your garlic slowly in butter to release its flavor without burning it.
- Add the heavy cream gradually while stirring—this prevents any clumping.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to thicken. Keep stirring, so it doesn’t stick to the pan.
- If it gets too thick, a splash of chicken broth or even pasta water can loosen it. Add a little at a time until you reach the desired creaminess.
Keep tasting and adjusting the seasoning to make sure it’s just right! Trust me, once you master this sauce, you’ll want to make it again and again!
How to Make Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta & Vegetables:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups broccoli florets
For the Shrimp:
- 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth (optional, to thin sauce if needed)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo takes about 25 minutes total: around 10 minutes for prep and about 15 minutes to cook. You’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by cooking the fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, but be sure to reserve a bit of the pasta water just in case you need it later!
2. Prepare the Broccoli:
While the pasta is cooking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender and bright green. Drain the broccoli and set it aside as well.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with a sprinkle of salt and pepper, then add them to the hot skillet. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until they are pink and opaque. Once done, remove the shrimp from the skillet and place them aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic, cooking briefly for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Add Cheese & Season:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese while continuing to mix until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the chicken broth to reach your desired consistency. Taste the sauce and season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you’d like a bit of heat.
6. Combine & Serve:
Now, add the cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and shrimp back to the skillet with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure everything is well-coated and heated through, about 1-2 minutes.
7. Garnish & Enjoy:
Remove from heat and garnish your Broccoli Shrimp Alfredo with chopped fresh parsley and more Parmesan cheese if you want to take it over the top. Serve it right away and enjoy this creamy, comforting dish!
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
How Do I Keep the Sauce from Curdling?
To prevent curdling, make sure to cook the sauce over medium heat and add the heavy cream slowly while stirring. Also, avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added, as that can cause it to separate.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, but it’s best to cook the pasta and shrimp fresh for the best texture. You can prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it. Just reheat gently on the stove and add cooked pasta and broccoli when ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creaminess, as it may thicken when cold.